What are mechanical keyboards? ↬ A mechanical keyboard is a high-performance keyboard with mechanical switches that provide precise, responsive key presses. Mechanical keyboards are durable and built to last much longer than rubber dome keyboards. The keys on a mechanical keyboard are also easier to press, so you don’t have to worry about bottoming out and causing damage to the keys over time. In addition, mechanical keyboards can be customized with different keycaps, switch types, and backlighting options.
At their core, mechanical keyboards are simply keyboards with physical switches under each key. These switches provide tactile and audio feedback to the user when pressed, unlike traditional membrane or scissor-switch keyboards. But mechanical keyboards don’t stop there.
There are a plethora of different switch types from many different manufacturers — all with their own unique properties. And on top of that, you have endless possibilities for customisation with things like keycaps, wrist rests and even LED backlighting. All of this combines to create a typing experience that is unrivalled by any other type of keyboard on the market. Keycaps are the removable covers that protect the keyswitches. Most mechanical keyboards use Cherry-style switches. These switches have a+1 cross-shaped stem that fits into a matching socket on the keycap.
Types of mechanical switches ↬ When it comes to mechanical keyboards, there are a few different key switch types that you might encounter. The most common are:
-Cherry MX switches: These are perhaps the most popular type of mechanical keyboard switch, and they come in a variety of colors (each of which corresponds to a different level of actuation force).
-Topre switches: These are another popular type of mechanical keyboard switch, and they're known for their unique 'thock' sound. Topre switches are also available in a variety of colors.
-Aluzier switches: These are a newer type of mechanical keyboard switch, and they offer a smoother, more linear typing experience.
What are some of the more common companies ↬ There are a few mechanical keyboard companies out there but the most popular ones that people talk about are Cherry, Gateron, Kailh, and ZealPC. There are many more mechanical keyboard switches on the market but these 4 make up the vast majority of what you will see in mechanical keyboards today.
There are pros and cons to each mechanical switch brand but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. That being said, there are some generalizations we can make about each company’s products.
Cherry is the OG mechanical switch company. They have been around for a long time and their switches are used in a lot of different mechanical keyboards. Their switches tend to be very smooth with little spring noise.
Types of mechanical keyboard switches ↬ Some mechanical keyboard switches are better for gaming, while others might be better for typing. There are also different types of mechanical keyboard keycaps, which can impact the feel and sound of the keyboard. Here's a breakdown of the different types of mechanical keyboard switches and keycaps.
mechanical keyboard: A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses physical switches to register key presses.
keycaps: Keycaps are the removable plastic caps that cover the keys on a mechanical keyboard. They come in a variety of colors, materials, and sizes.
artisan keycaps: Artisan keycaps are handmade keycaps that are often used for mechanical keyboards. They come in a variety of colors, materials, and sizes.
