Switches or mechanical switches are important elements of your PC. These small accessories have a direct impact on the use and performance of t...
Switches or mechanical switches are important elements of your PC. These small accessories have a direct impact on the use and performance of the keyboard. The switch closes a circuit when you press it. It also allows key activation. Custom Ton Clavier helps you choose the switch that suits your needs.
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How does a keyboard switch work?
A switch is a switch attached under each key of a mechanical keyboard . It is composed of a rod, a high base, a spring and contact. For it to work, you must press a key: this triggers an electrical connection and the keystroke is recorded. The switch makes the keyboard much more responsive and offers greater precision.
Unlike the traditional membrane keyboard, the mechanical one offers a long lifespan and a special typing feeling. What marks the difference between these two types of keyboards is the presence of switches on the Keyboard PCB (material allowing the keyboard to flex and fold). You can order an RGB PCB on Custom Ton Clavier whose switches are fully hot-swappable.
The characteristics of a switch for mechanical keyboard
If you are a gamer or a simple computer user, several elements must be taken into account when choosing a switch :
- the type of switch,
- the activation distance,
- the actuation force,
- the audible click.
The switch for mechanical keyboard can be linear or tactile depending on its responsiveness. A keyboard with a tactile switch offers very flexible key feedback at the actuation point. You then feel whether the button is activated or not. A linear switch is ideal for fast typing. It is the perfect choice for gaming, as it offers unique gaming comfort.
The activation distance is the distance the key travels to be considered activated. The actuation force represents the pressure required on a key to press it to its activation distance. With light weight, activation is faster.
A high force protects the user from a missed click at the fateful moment and the feeling of stiffness of the key is important. When it comes to the audible click, all mechanical keyboards make pretty much the same noise. However, some have a more audible clicking sound upon activation .
Summary of available keyboard switches
To choose the switches for your mechanical keyboard, you must select the models adapted to your use and your preferences. The majority of mechanical keyboards are equipped with Cherry MX switches, but there are also other brands on the market such as Kailh Red and Steelseries Q1.
Switch |
Switch type |
Activation distance |
Actuation force |
Audible click |
Cherry MX Red RGB |
Linear |
2mm |
45g |
No |
Cherry MX Black |
Linear |
2mm |
60g |
No |
Cherry MX Brown RGB |
Touch |
2mm |
55g |
No |
Cherry MX Blue RGB |
Touch |
2.2mm |
60g |
Yes |
Cherry MX Silent Red |
Linear |
1.9mm |
45g |
No |
Cherry MX Speed Silver RGB |
Linear |
1.2mm |
45g |
No |
Kailh Red |
Linear |
2mm |
50g |
No |
Kailh Black |
Linear |
2mm |
60g |
No |
Kailh Blue |
Touch |
2mm |
50g |
Yes |
Logitech Romer-G |
Touch |
1.5mm |
45g |
No |
Steelseries QS1 |
Linear |
1.5mm |
45g |
No |
If you are a fan of gaming or if you work on a computer every day, opt for a mechanical keyboard with the right switch. This will improve your user experience considerably. Whether linear or tactile, the choice of switch for mechanical keyboard depends on your needs and preferences. Don't hesitate to visit the Custom Ton Clavier stock, your best ally for high-end accessories at competitive prices.