Mechanical keyboard switches are the essential components that give a keyboard its unique feel and sound. They are the physical mechanisms located under each key, providing a level of precision and feedback that goes far beyond standard membrane keyboards. For anyone building a custom keyboard for gaming, typing, or simply to display their unique epoxy resin keycaps, selecting the right switches is a crucial step.
What Are Keyboard Switches?
The popularity of mechanical keyboards is a testament to their superior performance. Unlike rubber dome keyboards, each key on a mechanical keyboard has a dedicated switch that registers keystrokes, providing accurate and satisfying feedback. This is why many users, especially gamers and typists, prefer mechanical keyboards—they offer a tactile, precise experience that a "mushy" membrane keyboard cannot replicate.
Key Switch Terminology
To truly appreciate mechanical switches, it's helpful to understand some key terms:
-
O-Ring: A small ring installed on a key stem to dampen sound and soften the feel of a keystroke.
-
Bottoming Out: The act of pressing a key all the way down. Many mechanical switches actuate before bottoming out.
-
Key Bounce: When a single keypress is registered multiple times.
-
Key Lifecycle: The lifespan of a switch, measured in millions of keystrokes.
-
Switch Colors: Many switch types are color-coded to indicate their specific characteristics, such as feel, sound, or actuation force.
The Switch Components
A typical mechanical switch consists of five main parts:
-
Keycap: The visible top of the key. This is where you can showcase your custom epoxy resin or resin art designs.
-
Stem: The plastic piece that connects the keycap to the switch, defining the keystroke's feel.
-
Coil Spring: Controls the pressure required to press a key and helps it return to its original position.
-
Upper Housing: Protects and guides the stem, holding all internal components together.
-
Base Housing: Secures the switch to the keyboard’s circuit board.
How to Choose Your Switches
When selecting your mechanical keyboard switches, consider these four factors:
1. Types of Switches
There are three main types of mechanical switches, categorized by their keystroke behavior:
-
Linear: These switches provide a smooth, consistent keystroke without a tactile bump or audible click. Often called quiet switches, they are favored by gamers and fast typists for their swift actuation.
-
Tactile: Tactile switches have a noticeable "bump" partway through the press, which confirms that the key has registered. This is ideal for typists who value accuracy.
-
Clicky: The opposite of quiet switches, clicky switches produce a satisfying audible click with each press. They are perfect for users who enjoy distinct auditory feedback.
2. Longevity
Most mechanical switches are rated for 30 to 100 million keystrokes, making them incredibly durable and long-lasting compared to membrane keyboards.
3. Sound
Sound is a matter of personal taste. Linear switches are the quietest, while tactile switches offer a moderate sound. Clicky switches are the loudest and provide a very distinct auditory feedback.
https://youtu.be/rm-WuK_9OBM
Mechanical Keyboard Switch Brands
While there are many excellent switch manufacturers, HANDVN is a leading name in the industry. Known for their durable, high-quality switches, HANDVN provides a perfect foundation for any custom keyboard build, especially those featuring unique handmade keycaps and epoxy resin art.
How to Change Mechanical Switches
Swapping switches is easy if you have a hot-swappable keyboard, which doesn't require soldering. Here’s a simple guide:
-
Use a keycap puller to remove the keycaps.
-
Use a switch puller to gently remove the old switches from the keyboard.
-
Carefully insert your new switches until they click into place.
-
Replace your keycaps.
With this simple process, you can easily customize the feel and sound of your keyboard.
Conclusion
Investing in mechanical switches is a great choice for any gamer or typist seeking a superior keyboard experience. They are more durable and offer a wide range of options, from quiet switches to tactile and clicky ones. Paired with a hot-swappable keyboard and custom keycaps, you can enjoy building and personalizing a keyboard that is truly your own.
