As a keyboard enthusiast, you probably can’t wait to feel the subtle differences between Cherry MX Red, Black, Brown or Blue; or to touch new-generation switches like Kailh Box or Zealios. The question is, how do you test new mechanical keyboard switches to suit your type? Understanding the switch type and their characteristics, the right testing manners, using the best possible switch testers, and more, are all crucial in ultimately choosing the keyboard to your liking.
Understand the Basic Types and Characteristics of Switches
If you wish to test mechanical keyboard switches effectively, you need to understand the three basic types of switches: linear, tactile, and clicky.
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Linear switches provide a smooth key press from top to bottom, allowing fast actuation. They make minimal noise which is a boon in environments where silence is premium or where you do long typing sessions.
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Tactile switches offer a ‘bump’ halfway through the keypress, providing feedback about the actuation point. This tactile event can tell you when the keystroke is registered, therefore you do not need to bottom out the key, which can be advantageous for those who want to increase typing speed.
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Clicky switches, like the blues and greens, include a click sound when the key actuates. Clicky switches also have a tactile bump, making both an audible and tactile feedback.
Each type of switch has variations that differ in terms of actuation force (measured in grams) and actuation point (measured in millimeters).
Know the Right Switch Testing Manners
To effectively test these various switch types, follow these basic manners and testing protocols:
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Feel the Actuation Force: The force required to press a key is integral in testing. A lighter switch less than 50g can give faster actuation while a heavier switch lets you feel more feedback.
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Observe the Noise: Listen to the ‘clack’ sound your switch makes. Some may prefer the silent linear switches, while some may get fulfilled with the clicky switches’ distinctive sound.
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Check for Responsiveness: Pay attention to how the switch responds in return. Did it spring back quickly? Was there any hiccup during the key press?
Use Mechanical Key Switch Testers
Remember, individual preference plays a significant role in key switch selection. Hence, using switch testers comes in handy for you to feel the differences in switches.
A switch tester is a device that houses an assortment of switches ranging from your standard Cherry MX, Topre, Zealios, Kailh, etc., thus allowing you to sample each switch’s unique feel and sound before investing in a whole keyboard.
Here are some well-valued switch testers that you use:
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Max Keyboard Keycap, Cherry MX Switch, O-Ring Sampler Tester Kit: It comes with 8 different Cherry MX switches along with 4 O-rings, letting you experience both sound and tactile feel in one kit.
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Mechanical Keyboards Inc Key Tester: It provides a wide range of 72 switches including Cherry MX, Kailh, Zealios, and other popular switches.
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Cooler Master Mechanical Key Switch Tester: This tester offers 6 different Cherry MX switches with labeled keycap for easy identification.
Implement Proper Switch Testing Environment
Ensure you are in a quiet environment to accurately gauge the sound each switch produces. Also, eliminate any distractions to fully concentrate on switch testing.
Benchmark Switch Testing
Finally, always benchmark your switch testing. Maintain a record of what you’ve tested – include details such as actuation force, sound level, tactile feedback, overall experience, and so on. This will help you arrive at a handpicked option that suits your unique typing or gaming needs.
Ultimately, the best way to find your favorite switch is experimentation. Every switch brings its own pros and cons – some may prefer a silent linear Red while others may opt for a tactile Brown, or even a clicky Blue. Knowing how to test the mechanical keyboard switches equips you not only with the ability to choose your favorites, but also gives an enriching journey in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Investing the time and effort to carefully test and choose the ideal switch offers a significant return for the enhanced gaming performance and typing comfort that you’ll reap for years to come.
