A brief introduction to mechanical keyboards for beginners.
When you decide to buy a mechanical keyboard for gaming, there are lots of switch options. You may have a problem finding the switch that suits you. Here is a brief introduction to switches.
Switch Manufacturers
There are several main mechanical key switch manufacturers in the market: Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, Zeal, Outemu, Razer, Matias, ALPS, Topre, Stem shape. The most common and well-known one should be Cherry MX, and Gateron, Kailh, Zeal, and Outemu switches are compatible with Cherry MX switches.
Switch Colors
For the colors of the switch, every company would manufacture different colors, like Red, Blue, Black, Brown, Green, and etc. Basically, the same color switch would have the same typing experience between companies. For example, the blue switch is clicky and the brown is tactile. However, there is still a slight difference in the feelings between the same color switch from different companies.
Switch Types
There are 3 types of mechanical key switches by keystroke feelings: Linear, Tactile, and clicky switches.
Linear Switches: Preferred by gamers
The most typical linear switches are Cherry MX black and red. Unlike tactile and clicky switches, they move straight up and down without any tactile feedback or clicking noise, which provides a smooth keystroke and allows for more rapid actuation. Therefore, linear witches tend to be more popular among gamers.
Tactile Switches: For Heavy typist
Representatives of tactile switches are Cherry MX brown and clear. They are tactile in feeling and don’t require a heavy press to get your imprint which is good for programmers, the office crowd, or typists.
Clicky Switches: For people who love clicky sound
As its name implies, the clicky switch has a distinct clicky sound, such as Cherry MX blue and green. This type of switch suits people who like click sound when gaming or daily use.
Factors should be considered when choosing a switch
After knowing the basic knowledge of mechanical switches, for how to choose the right switch for yourself, there are several key factors that you should take into consideration.
The most important factor should be the usage Scenarios.
If you are going to use the keyboard in a serious workplace, a clicky switch may not be a good option. The sound can be frustrating for those around you who may wish for quiet while they are working and concentrating. If you want a more soundly considerate keyboard, tactile switches like brown switches would be a good choice.
If you plan to use the keyboard for gaming, you may want to pick a linear switch because of the responsiveness and the smooth keystroke. If you prefer auditory feedback like lots of gamers do, clicky switches like blue and green switches would be a great choice.
If you are a heavy typist, the tactile switch is probably the best for you. It is smoother and gives more accuracy. You do not have to press the key to the bottom, you can type the next once you feel the bump.
The other elements you should take into consideration are your typing preferences, hand size, strength, typing styles.
