Keyboard switches may seem like a small detail, but they can make a big difference in your overall typing experience. Whether you're a gamer, writer, or programmer, having the right switch type can significantly impact your comfort, speed and accuracy. With so many options available, choosing the best switch type for your needs can be overwhelming. To help you navigate through the different types of switches, we've put together this guide on how to choose switches for Touchmax keyboards. From the basic three starters to more advanced options, we'll provide you with tips and information to help you select the perfect switch type for your preferences.
Basic 3 starters
In the world of mechanical keyboard, everyone usually starts out with one of the three starters. Just like in pokemon, you can choose between a Red, Blue or Brown.
[Blue switch] = Clicky = Loud and Clicky = if you like loud clicks
Blue is a loud one that you typically when you think of mechanical keyboard. It makes a loud click on each press.
[Brown switch] = Tactile = Quiet and Bumpy = General Usage
Brown is the safe option. It's relatively quiet and has a bump you can feel on each key press. This can help minimize mistakes while typing.
[Red switch] = Linear = Smooth and Fast = Excellent for Gaming
Red is smooth and fast. Typically, gamers lean towards red switches for their consider feel with no bump.
Keep in mind you can choose whatever you want, these are just super basic recommendations if you really can't choose for yourself.
Beyond the starters, it goes so much farther. When you look at switches as a whole, there are three distinct groups, Linear, Clicky and tactile. Here's a list of popular switches in each category.
You can ever go farther into more switch types including low-profile, optical, silent, EC, Topre, Analog, and more!
[Low-profile switches] are much shorter and resemble laptop keys. These are often used for better ergonomics, and a faster response time while gaming.
[Optical switches] are another good option for gaming as they actuate via light, and don't have the debounce delay like mechanical keyboards, so they are faster.
[Silent switches] have a rubber padding built into minimize noise during typing experience, but you're going to experience a little mushiness.
[Topre switches] are their own thing entirely. They're technically rubber dome switches, but they're much more tactile, and providing consistent typing experience,similar to mechanical switches.
Basically, consider these three factors to determine the suitable switches:
1. Determining your typing style
The type of switch you should choose will depend on your typing style. If you prefer a tactile feel with a noticeable bump when pressing the keys, consider a tactile switch like Cherry MX Brown or Blue. If you prefer a smoother typing experience without the bump, then a linear switch like Cherry MX Red may be more suitable for you. For those who enjoy an audible click when typing, clicky switches like Cherry MX Blue or Kailh Box White are good choices.
2.Consider noise level
Some switches can produce loud clicking sounds when typing. If you're working in a quiet environment or shared space quieter switches like Cherry MX Silent or Kailh Box Brown may be more appropriate.
3. Look at actuation force, responsiveness, and feel of the switches
Actuation force refers to the amount of pressure required to activate a key. Heavier switches require more force and can cause fatigue over long periods of typing. Lighter switches require less force and are less fatiguing. Consider your own strength and preferences when selecting a switch.
How do you figure out what you like, without needing to buy an entirely new keyboard?
1. Visit a store: Many computer stores or electronics retailers have keyboards on display that allow you to test out different switch types. You can also ask the staff if they have any recommendations based on your needs.
2. Attend meetups: Joining local keyboard enthusiast groups or attending meetups is a great way to try out different switches in person. This is especially helpful if you want to experience more exotic switch types that may not be available in stores.
3. Use switch testers: Switch testers are small devices that contain various switch types and allow you to test them out at home. These testers can be purchased online for relatively inexpensive price, and they're a great way to get a feel for different switches before buying a full keyboard.
4. Watch sound tests and reviews: If you can't try out switches in person you can turn to online resources such as reviews and sound tests to get a better sense of how each switch type feels and sounds during typing. This isn't as accurate as trying out switches in person but it can still give you a good idea of which switch types you might prefer.
5.Chat with us: Touchmax offer sample packs that contain several of our most popular switch types, allowing you to try them out at home and providing a more comprehensive testing experience.
Keeping in mind that everyone has different preferences when it comes to switches so what works for one person may not work for another. Trying out a variety of switch types can help ensure that your choose the best switch type for your needs and preferences.
Lastly, to get a truly accurate experience, you'll just have to get them in hand, and install them into your keyboard. Chatting with us will get you a little bit closer, but eventually you'll need to take the leap and start testing them out for yourself. Getting a hot swappable keyboard from Touchmax, makes this testing process a whole lot easier.
