Hello friends! Today we will discuss with you the switches of mechanical keyboards - what they are, how their types differ from each other and which ones are better.

In this article, you will learn:

Principle of operation

All switches, or as they are called, switches, are arranged according to the same principle. In the initial position of the button, the contact activating the character set remains open. When pressed, the key moves the contact-holding plunger.

That, unbending, closes, and the keyboard controller receives a signal about the key operation.

The main difference between all switches is the resistance force holding the spring button and the interaction between the kapkey and the plunger.

By simulating various types of interaction of these elements, designers can implement a device with any parameters: from an almost silent switch, triggered by a key stroke of several millimeters, to a keyboard that completely imitates an old typewriter - with a corresponding rumble during operation and tactile sensations.

And now - about the popular types of switches.

Cherry MX

Manufactured in Germany since 1983. In fact, the company is almost a monopoly, as such switches are used in the vast majority of mechanical keyboards.
This brand has been recognized as the industry standard for quality due to its uptime and uptime. There are several varieties:

• RGB. Switches in a transparent case. Used in most backlit keyboards.
• Brown. Tactile. Quietest in operation, with a pronounced actuation point. Suitable for high volume typing or amateur gamers.
• Blue. Tactile, with a characteristic click. The sound of the operation resembles a typewriter. For games, blue switches are not the best option due to the long key travel.
• Red. Linear. Favorite type of switches for most gamers, as they are "sharpened" for fast multiple presses. They are pressed much easier than the previous versions - 45 g force is enough. Also suitable for work.
• Silent Red. Linear. A variation of the previous type. Virtually silent during operation, which is achieved due to the presence of a noise-absorbing pad in each switch. The tactile sensations are a bit soft, which not all users like.
• Black. Linear. The most "tight" in the lineup. Requires more force to push. On the other hand, black switches reduce the risk of accidentally activating if pressed carelessly, which is why they are also popular with gamers.

• Clear. Tactile. They resemble Brown, but with a more pronounced tactile response. Quite tight: require up to 80 g of effort to activate. Recommended for experienced mechanical keyboard users.
• Green. Tactile clicking. Similar to Blue, but with a stiffer spring. Accidental clicks are excluded, so it can be used for gaming.
• Speed ​​Silver. Linear. Essentially the same Red with a shorter key travel. They are positioned by the manufacturer as the fastest switches, so they are suitable not only for games, but also for high-speed typing.
• Nature White. Linear. Target audience - gamers for whom keyboards on red switches are too easy to press. The golden mean: a force of 50 grams is enough for triggering.

It should be noted that the color of the switches is not a marketing name: they are actually colored according to the name, so it is not difficult to distinguish between them.

Topre

The Japanese brand has been producing electrostatic capacitive switches since 1983. According to user reviews, keyboards with these switches have been around for decades. The structure can be characterized as hybrid: in addition to the spring, the structure contains an elastic membrane.

In terms of tactile sensations, they are more reminiscent of expensive membrane keyboards.

The travel of the keys is smooth and soft, and the actuation point is located at the very beginning of the button travel. When pressed all the way, the switch emits a characteristic click. They sound nice and are quieter than most mechanical switches.

ALPS

Such switches were produced by the Japanese company of the same name until 1996. Today, all switches of this brand are exact copies of the products of a well-known brand. They differ in a rather complex design: up to 10 components in each switch.
There are various modifications: tactile, linear, clicking and silent. The most famous today are the products of the Matias company, which are simplified versions of the ALPS switches.

And although the original keyboards of this brand have been out of print for a long time, you can find used ALPS in excellent condition on the Internet - for example, on eBay.

Matias

These switches are assembled in China at the Dongguan Gaote Electronics factory. There are several modifications:

• Click. Tactile clicking. Not the quietest, so not suitable for users who are annoyed by loud sound. Suitable for lovers of nostalgia or fans of old typewriters.
• Quiet Click. Tactile. The sound is as quiet as keyboards.

Linear. Linear. They have a smoother and tighter pressure than Cherry MX SilentRed and are popular with many gamers.

Kailh

Inexpensive Chinese clones of Cherry MX switches. Recently on the market, therefore not well tested. Often, keyboards equipped with these switches have problems with rattling or double-acting keys.

However, at this price, it is difficult to expect perfect performance.
Fits in inexpensive mechanical keyboards that cost $ 30-40. As a rule, they are not used in premium models.

Razer

The hegemonic leader, who swung to primacy in the creation of gaming devices, abandoned the products of other brands and uses his own switches in mechanical keyboards.

This is due not only to the fact that the brand wants to be on its own, but also to the fact that Cherry's production capacity was not enough for Razer's growing appetites. There are several types of switches of this brand:

• Green - tactile, with a pronounced click;
• Yellow - linear, with a shortened key travel;
• Orange - tactile, with a quiet click.

Gateron

Perhaps the most famous and beloved by users Cherry MX clones. They have a predictable quality and smoother key travel compared to the original.

Outemu

Cheapest Chinese Cherry MX clones. You should not be seduced by the affordable price: the keyboards on these switches are known for their inconsistency, that is, it takes different efforts to press different keys. Not very comfortable.

It is difficult to judge which switches are better. The only thing that can be said unequivocally is that it is better to use originals than clones, even despite the difference in price. Otherwise, the tactile sensation, the sound emitted and the effort required to activate is a matter of personal preference.

There is, of course, a difference, but the sensations when working at a keyboard with switches of one type or another are subjective: all users have different tastes. Fortunately, the lineup of the flagships allows with any parameters.

And that's all for today. I would be grateful to everyone who shares this post on social networks. Till tomorrow!

Often when buying a keyboard, the choice is made according to external characteristics - the color of the keyboard and keys, the size, height of the keys, etc. But the key mechanism installed inside is responsible for the responsiveness of the keyboard and the level of comfort when working with it. In order for you to be able to make an informed choice in favor of a more convenient and suitable keyboard for your tasks, in this article we will tell you about the device and the differences between mechanical and membrane keyboards.

Membrane keyboards

Membranes are the simplest and cheapest among all the variety of types of keyboards. Such keyboards consist of three thin layers - there are conductors on the top and bottom layers, the middle layer serves as insulation. When the upper membrane is pressed, it flexes and closes the contact - the keyboard registers the keystroke. The thickness of the layers is usually in the range of the thickness of a sheet of paper or cardboard. Thanks to this organization, membrane keyboards can be made not only cheap, but also lightweight, flexible and protected from moisture.

The design feature also determines the main disadvantages of such a keyboard: almost complete absence of feedback, no dosing of the load on the membrane (carried out by the dialing fingers), which reduces the resource of the keyboard. Due to the low feedback in such keyboards, audible confirmation of pressing is usually set. Currently, such keyboards are used in microwave ovens, children's toys, etc.

Membrane rubber keyboards

This type of keyboard is most likely in front of your computer and is used in your laptop. It combines the lightness and low cost of membrane keyboards and supplements it with feedback by pushing the rubber cap, after which the contact in the membrane is closed. The keys of such keyboards have to be pressed all the way, otherwise the contact will not close. When working on such keyboards for a long time, you may get the feeling that you are simply tapping your fingers on a piece of plastic.

Mechanical keyboards

Mechanical ones differ from their membrane counterparts by the presence of mechanically disconnected contacts and a clear tactile connection (depending on the type of keyboard). The actuation of such keys occurs before the key reaches the travel stop, so it is not necessary to knock on such keys to the end. This improves typing comfort and gives you an idea of ​​when the key worked when playing games. In addition, mechanical keyboards are much more reliable than their membrane counterparts, the number of keystrokes of a mechanical key exceeds the number of keystrokes of a membrane one by an order of magnitude.

Mechanical keyboards differ depending on the types of buttons used. The most common are Chery MX switches, in various modifications. The differences between them are in the pressing force, key travel and sound when triggered. To simplify the selection, switches with similar characteristics are grouped by color: MX Red, Black, and so on. The same designations are used by manufacturers of more budget switches, if they are close in characteristics to Cherry products. For example, Kailh Blue is very similar to Cherry MX Blue.

Cherry MX Black

They are characterized by uniform linear pressure, no tactile communication and no click. The technology is considered one of the best for games - the actuation and release points are practically at the same level, for a quick key press, you just need to move it slightly. On the other hand, such a keyboard is not very pleasant when typing - there is no feedback, the keys still have to be pressed all the way. Pressing force - 60 g, key travel - 2 mm to actuation, 4 mm to stop.

Cherry MX Blue

They are characterized by uneven pressure, feedback and click when triggered. Keys like these are considered the best for typing - the tactile feel is very well expressed thanks to the floating design of the actuator. For games, such keys are also suitable, due to the similar pressing force and a clear actuation moment, but the actuation and release points are far from each other, the key will have to be completely released to make the next press. Pressing force - 50 g (60 g at the peak), key travel - 2 mm to actuation, 4 mm to stop.

Cherry MX Red

They are characterized by uniform linear pressure, no tactile communication and no click. The technology follows the MX Black, but the actuation force is noticeably lower. It is considered one of the best for games - the actuation and release points are almost at the same level, for a quick key press, you just need to move it slightly. On the other hand, such a keyboard is not very pleasant when typing - there is no feedback, the keys still have to be pressed all the way. Pressing force - 45 g, key travel - 2 mm to actuation, 4 mm to stop.

Razer Green Switch

A relatively new development from Razer, it is used in a series of mechanical keyboards. They are characterized by uneven pressure, feedback and click when triggered. These keys are balanced - suitable for both games and typing. The feedback feels good, and the close proximity of the actuation and release points allows for quick, repetitive taps. Pressing force - 45 g (50 g peak), key travel - 1.9 mm to actuation, 4 mm to stop.

Logitech Romer-G with tactile feedback

Thanks to their ingenious design, Romer-G switches with tactile feedback signal actuation with a distinct response of the pressed key. To accurately perform the desired action, minimal effort is required, which saves the player from unnecessary worries at a crucial moment, and silent work does not distract anyone present. Romer-G switches with tactile feedback are perfect for first-person shooters and game tournaments.

Switch parameters: 1.5 mm before actuation, full travel 3.5 mm, average pressing force - 45 grams, recoil force - 50 grams.

Logitech Romer-G Line Switches

The Romer-G Linear Switches are exceptionally soft and smooth, and are great for quick double-clicks, smooth partial clicks, and sequential complex keyboard shortcuts. This is the best option for online multiplayer games as well as action games

Switch parameters: 1.5 mm before actuation, full travel 3.5 mm, average pressing force - 45 grams

In this review, we'll take a look at the different types of switches that are used in modern keyboards.

History

In the 1980s, at the dawn of computers, all keyboards were mechanical. The Cherry company, which has been producing mechanical switches since 1953, especially distinguished itself. However, over time, competitors (including Apple and Microsoft) decided that they knew what was best for the user - and began to use sensitive membrane pads in their keyboards.

Manufacturers have tried other solutions (capacitive, reed), but they did not become popular. Now progress does not stand still, new technological methods are still appearing - for example, an opto-mechanical switch from Razer.

Mechanical switches

The key difference between mechanical keyboards and the rest is that they have break contacts. The bottom line is that when a person presses the button, the registration of pressing (triggering) occurs exactly in the middle of the stroke (usually two millimeters). In a membrane keyboard, the button must be pressed to the very end for it to work.

Mechanical keyboards are more expensive due to their more complex design. A separate mechanism is responsible for pressing the button, in addition, gold-plated contacts are often used.

Mechanical keyboard switches are durable, and even after a few years of use, they will feel exactly the same (whereas the membrane switches will press down tighter over time due to the hardening of the rubber domes). Another plus important for many - the mechanics supports an unlimited number of simultaneous presses.

The disadvantages include high noise during operation and a rather "biting" price.

Mechanical switches are not all the same, they have four subspecies highlighted in the Cherry MX series:

• Blue... Suitable primarily for those who type a lot. They have a tactile feedback (a characteristic click when pressed). This view is the loudest and is similar to a typewriter in its sound.
• Brown They belong to the universal switches - they also have tactile feedback, but the click is much quieter than the blue ones. Less pressing force is required to trigger. The option is suitable for both those who type a lot and gamers. There is a proprietary development of Logitech Romer-G - the same Brown, but with a shortened stroke and output under the LED.
• Black... Purely gaming keyboard switches. There is no tactile feedback, but in games it is not required, since the player always pushes the buttons all the way. There is a plus for typing: due to the high pressing force that black switches require, there is no risk of accidentally touching the adjacent buttons.
• Red... Also considered game switches. They require low pressing force, have no tactile feedback. Red switches are quiet enough. Many people think that they are not suitable for printing, but this is an individual question, you need to try. Of the proprietary developments, SteelSeries QS1 is the most similar to such switches, but the course of the latter is shorter.
• RGB Black / Red/ Brown/ Blue... A special category that differs only in the ability to connect LEDs.

It is important to remember that a mechanical keyboard does not add skill or advantage to gaming; however, according to most users, it improves the comfort of using the computer.

Hybrid Capacitive Switches

The only example of such switches on the market today is from Topre in Japan. Their design is mechanical, but a special sensor is used to register pressing - it measures the capacitance of the contacts at the bottom of the switch, since it changes depending on the pressing force. Triggering is registered only at a given moment and nothing else.

Such keyboards are quieter and softer than linear ones, although they are not inferior in reliability. They show good results both in typing and in games. Unfortunately, they have a high price (up to 10,000 rubles for 2019).

Examples of modern mechanical keyboards

Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum

ASUS (STRIX TACTIC PRO)

Corsair Vengeance K70

Membrane switches

This design consists of:

• covers;
• plastic vertical rod with a cap at the bottom;
• three-layer membrane.

When a person squeezes the key all the way, its rod first touches the upper membrane layer, then "pushes" this first layer through the opening in the second layer, until it touches the lower one. By touching the bottom layer, the cap closes the chain - the signal goes to the computer, the function of the key is triggered. The middle layer is needed to avoid shorting contacts between the first and third layers if the user accidentally touches the button. Therefore, membrane switches only respond to full pressing.

The shape and thickness of the tip cap affects the tactile response, resistance level, and overall key travel. But all such main feature is the so-called "bottoming out" (the need to press the button to the very end for it to work).

Several operational nuances of keyboards with membrane switches:

• The key travel is 3.5-4 mm. After stopping, the membrane layer sends it back on its own. In rare keyboards, the stroke is 2-3 mm.
• Membrane switch keyboards are definitely the quietest on the market. The fact is that the design does not contain solid elements that can knock against each other, and silicone or rubber gaskets almost completely eliminate the sound of pressing buttons.
• Typical lifespan for this type of device is based on 1 million keystrokes per key. But especially high-quality expensive models, which use heavy-duty materials, can withstand 10 million keystrokes per key. However, over time, any caps become less elastic and more sensitive to touch; This factor is influenced by the degree of contamination of the keyboard, vulcanization of rubber due to UV radiation, manufacturing defects or excessive stress on the silicone (rubber) gaskets. As a result, already in the first year of use, there is a difference in the required pressing force between frequently and rarely used keys.
• The actuation force of the switches ranges from 25 grams force to 150, but most switches in modern membrane keyboards fall into the category from 60 to 80, that is, an average pressing force is required for the signal to enter the computer.
• By their architecture, most membrane switches are not tactile and return to the user a rather soft "kickback"; in such keyboards, the emphasis is on shock absorption. Some interested persons, who are familiar with the technique, adjust the level of tactility on their own - however, the membrane will still never be able to compete with mechanical keys in this regard.

It should be noted that membrane switches are of two types: domed and flat panel. The latter are not equipped with a rounded gasket-cap and rather resemble flat buttons used, say, in microwave ovens. The travel of such keys is minimal. In computer keyboards, the option is practically not used, although it is rarely built into specialized models (like portable devices for travelers) or, on the contrary, stationary industrial computers.

Examples of modern membrane keyboards

Logitech G213 Prodigy

Razer DeathStalker Essential

Genius Scorpion K9

Plunger switches

There are also plunger switches - a subspecies of membrane switches. In essence, they are the same diaphragm, only slightly refined so that the pressure sensation is closer to the mechanics.

Conventional membrane keyboards have a one-piece key, pressing which immediately transfers pressure to the dome. The sound depends on the softness of the dome and the shape of the key.

In the plunger, the key cap (in the image -1) and the piston or plunger (in the image - 2) are separated. The caps are most often compatible with mechanical switches. The complete plunger switch design consists of:

1 - key (cap)
2 - plunger (piston)
3 - cap blocker
4 - plunger stabilizer
5 - silicone or rubber dome

Due to the ambiguity of the design, this type of keyboard switches is not very popular.

Examples of modern plunger keyboards

Tesoro lobera

Tt eSports Challenger Edge Pro RGB

Optical Switches

Fresh development from Razer.

While traditional mechanisms are based on the physical contact of movable parts with each other, this type of switch uses a completely different design - optical-mechanical.

The key difference is that instead of a physical contact, a light beam is used to provide the signal. When the user presses down a key, light from a special optical sensor penetrates the switch and sends a signal to the computer that serves as a command to perform the desired action.

By virtue of their design features, the optical switches are free from any actuation delays. When pressed, a clicking sound is heard, tactile feedback is present.

In use, the Razer Opto-Mechanical feels like the Razer Mechanical Switch, designed specifically for gamers to compete with the mechanical Cherry MX. However, in Opto-Mechanical, the click is triggered exactly at the moment when the click sound is heard. In all previous models, this was not feasible due to the properties of the mechanisms. So, Razer has set a new benchmark in the response speed of switches with its innovation.

Examples of optomechanical keyboards

A4 Tech Bloody B820R

Razer Huntsman

Conclusion

When choosing a gaming keyboard, it is most logical to focus on your personal feelings and preferences.

Mechanical keys have minimal latency, but still have a characteristic click sound when pressed due to their mechanical design. If you like loud keystrokes and a tactile feel, then mechanical switches are for you. If you want to print as quietly as possible, choose membrane. It is unlikely that your skill will suffer from this.

However, if you just want maximum responsiveness to key presses, then the best option for today is optical switches.

Is an essential and must-have gear on the battlefield of the latest FPS PC games, legendary MOBAs, and epic MMO worlds. HyperX ™ keypads are powered by Cherry® MX switches, providing significant benefits for responsiveness and durability. Made in Germany, the mechanical switches guarantee over 50 million keystrokes, which of course has a direct impact on the price of the finished product.

Whether you love the audible click of every keystroke or prefer quiet typing, Cherry has switches to suit every need. They are characterized by minimal actuation force, which means less wear and tear and higher comfort, whether you crush the competition in the game or print a memoir of 30 pages.

So, below we will consider what exactly is special, and which switches to choose directly for video games and typing.

Cherry MX switches are manufactured and come in many "colors" from brown, blue, red to black, white, green. They differ not only in the color of the base of the mechanisms, but also have several other differences. There are three different types of switches: snap (blue and green), tactile (brown and transparent), and linear (black and red).

They were introduced only in 2008. They have the lowest actuation force of the three most common switches. Red switches are designed as light-click gaming switches for quick action and have become more common in gaming devices. For players who require quick double or triple keystrokes, this type of key mechanism offers a certain speed advantage.

The most popular type of non-click tactile switch is. This switch was introduced in 1994 as a special "ergo-soft" switch, but quickly became the most popular. Most keypads today come with Brown switches, as this type is a good medium versatile option suitable for both frequent typing and gaming. They are also ideal for office work where the click of the switch will not annoy employees who prefer to work in silence.

So, Cherry MX Brown is considered the best all-around switch. Its tactile kick, silent movement and actuation force make it versatile. Since the tactile bump is created from behind a rib in a dashed fin, hysteresis is less pronounced than with blue switches. Additionally, they are often used in an environment where blue switches are too loud, but fast typing is required.

It is the most common type of mechanical key and was first released on Filco keyboard models in 2007. Blue switches are preferred, first of all, by those who often and a lot of typists, because of their tactile impact and audible click. However, they are less suitable for video games, as the pressure is relatively high at 50 grams, and it is a little more difficult to double-click as the release point is higher than the trigger point. Blue switches are noticeably louder than other "mechanics".

The blue gear is recommended mainly for typing as it has an excellent click sound, making it the loudest switch. Therefore, if you want the device to sound like a typewriter, you can safely buy a "keyboard" with blue switches.

The separate design of the slider also provides the most significant sensitive feedback, unlike all switches from the German company. The two-piece slider design introduces very pronounced hysteresis, which makes fast-shooting in video games more challenging than linear switches.

So what is a mechanical keyboard? While most keyboards use soft silicone parts, mechanical models have springs and metal and are much more complex than a membrane.

The design of the latter type is based on 3 thin layers of film under the keys. The top and bottom layers are equipped with conductors, while the middle layer acts as an insulating link. The peculiarities of this design have become the reason for the main disadvantages of the membrane keypad. After all, in order to close the contact, the keys must be pressed all the way. The mechanics, in comparison, look much more complicated. They contain:

• mechanical break contacts;
• clear sensitive communication, depending on the types of keypad.

The key is triggered before it reaches the stop. Thanks to this, the keys do not need to be tapped at all until the travel stop is felt. This makes typing texts more comfortable, and in a video game it makes it possible to understand when a key was pressed.

However, mechanical keypads are more reliable than membrane keypads. This mechanism includes LED backlighting, which provides better visibility at night, and also has a much higher number of clicks, several times exceeding the membrane one.

Another advantage of mechanics is durability. They will work for more than one year, moreover, the key travel and tactile feedback will not change: they will be pressed with the same ease as on the day of purchase. They support an infinite number of keystroke logging. However, this is individual and depends on the type of keypad.

Cherry MX BLUE is a lightweight switch. Unlike most other switches, this plunger consists of not one, but two parts:

1. blue plunger (which is connected to the key);
2. the white inner slider (which opens and closes the path).

These switches emit a characteristic click, which does not depend in any way on the presence of a keycap. The answer to the question, how the blue switches differ from the red ones, is extremely simple - the blue switches have a higher stiffness than the red ones, as well as a slightly larger move. Therefore, in order for the mechanism to work, an effort of 60 grams must be applied.

MX BLUE allows you to clearly feel and, moreover, hear the moment when the mechanism worked, however, there will be no such control in games as in red and brown switches. In general, these switches are still great for games, because the gamer will clearly understand whether the press worked or not. The blue type of switches are ideal for those who prioritize not gaming, but typing.

Cherry MX BROWN are tactile switches that lack the characteristic click. The switch is not pressed smoothly and has a characteristic cutoff, that is, you can feel it when you press the switch. The approximate pressing force is 45 grams, which is the most optimal. These switches are produced, Extra RGB and other brothers. Cherry MX BROWN is one of the most optimal switches for video games and typing, as they:

• quiet, since they do not have any click and click;
• very comfortable due to their tactile sensations and feedback.

Cherry MX RED are linear switches that have no click, which makes them unusually quiet. However, they lack tactile feedback, so they are also very smooth.

This type allows you to instantly react to events in games. This is the highlight of the mechanics: the ability to easily control the process and the speed of response. The pressing force to trigger this switch is about 40 grams. In principle, these are very light switches, and you can play them for a fairly long time, while your fingers will not get tired.

Of the minuses, you can highlight the sound, that is, the reproduced volume. How can they be loud if they are linear and do not have a click? Everything is very simple! Due to the fact that the pressing force is very small, when bending the keycap onto the switch, it comes into contact with the plastic of the switch itself and emits a characteristic sound. From this it follows that red switches without a keycap are quite quiet, but as soon as you put on a keycap, the sound is two, or even three times louder.

As a powerful gaming gear, it is important to consider not only the attractive appearance and durability, but also the type of switches that are used. The quietest switches are those with the most pressing force. However, they all negatively affect fingers and fatigue. It turns out that with prolonged typing or playing, your fingers will get tired, but the device will work very quietly.

Red and brown mechanisms are the best option for a gaming keyboard and at the same time for typing. That is, if you want moderately optimal switches in terms of sound, tactile sensations and, in fact, for the price, the brands Cherry MX BROWN and RED are the best switches for computer games, and MX BLUE is most suitable for typing. With long-term play or a set of information on these switches, your fingers will not get tired, and the sound will be average: not very quiet, but not very loud either.

Naturally, the "mechanics" will not give you 100% victory in game competitions, but its advantages will greatly increase the chances.

Mechanical keyboards: what are they eaten with and are they worth the money?

"Membranka, fuuuu" - heard in social networks in response to the question "Should I buy such and such a keyboard?" And when asked for advice on something suitable, they almost always offer a mechanic. But the prices for mechanical keyboards are quite high. What is the reason for this, and would an investment in such a keyboard be justified? But first, let's see why you don't need to buy a membrane.

The membrane is bad

Membrane keyboard device

The first keyboards were mechanical, but the high cost of their production clearly did not contribute to the spread of such a phenomenon as the "personal computer" among typewriter lovers. In this regard, manufacturers switched to the production of membrane keyboards. They are really cheaper and easier to manufacture: a substrate with a contact grid is responsible for transmitting signals in such keyboards.

Often, such a substrate is made of a simple, durable film, and the conductive tracks are applied directly to it without any protection. Closing of contacts occurs by pressing improvised "buttons", bulges on the second layer of the keyboard, the membrane. This layer is a rectangular silicone sheet with domes protruding from it (therefore, in the English version, the membrane keyboard is referred to as “rubber dome keyboard”). When a key is pressed, the path under it closes, and due to the silicone's ability to retain its shape, the key easily returns to its place.

It would seem, what could go wrong? After all, everything is so simple and easy.

Cons of membrane keyboards

One of the main disadvantages of traditional keyboards is that the key must be pushed all the way to close the contact. Only then will the click be registered. Needless to say, if you type for a long time on such a keyboard, your fingers will get tired? And if we add that over time, silicone hardens and requires more effort to change the shape? Moreover, changing the physical properties of silicone does not take much time. As a rule, after a year, users notice that the keyboard is not squeezed out as easily as after purchase. For the strongest and bravest, who do not want to spare the joints, there is one more news: the increase in membrane stiffness is directly proportional to the chance that it will break.

Here we suddenly turn to the issue of reliability. In addition to the insufficient durability of the membrane, it is also worth noting the low resistance of the contact substrate to mass shorting. Agree, every user sooner or later fills the keyboard with something. The membrane "board" is an excellent reservoir for fluid. If you fill it up, then it will most likely immediately go crazy and stop working. In most cases, forever, since the contact grid is a single element of the system, which completely disappears from the game from contact with a conductive substance after the oxidation of the tracks. One broken track disables an entire block of keys.

The indivisibility of the contact grid is the reason for another problem: a membrane keyboard that works through the USB interface is unable to transmit a signal of more than 6 simultaneous presses, unless the manufacturer has provided ways to bypass this limitation (so-called "anti-hosting"). However, with some key combinations and 6 keystrokes are not always recorded.

Plunger keyboards

Several manufacturers produce "robust keyboards with a mechanical feel." Don't fall for their tricks. Under the keys of plunger keyboards, there is exactly the same membrane and contact substrate as on conventional membranes, which means that they suffer from the same diseases. The only difference is the sensation of pressing. At the same time, prices for plunger devices are much higher than for diaphragm ones.

Magic mechanics

Obviously, speaking of these shortcomings, we want to say that mechanical keyboards are devoid of them. And indeed it is. Each key of the mechanics is a switch plus a keycap (a key cap with an engraved symbol on it, for which the key is responsible). The switch is soldered into a printed circuit board, the tracks of which are protected by a layer of varnish. Returning to the question of being sloppy users, it can be noted that this type of keyboard layout is much safer, and incidents often end with only a slight shock to the user and urgent procedures to remove moisture from the device case.

By the way, speaking about disassembling the mechanics for any purpose, including for routine cleaning, it should be said that the vast majority of mechanical keyboards are extremely simple. They are very easy to disassemble and assemble, as they often consist of only two parts of the case and the printed circuit board. The case is usually held only by screws without any flimsy latches characteristic of membranes. In addition, many manufacturers equip devices with a special device for removing the keys, which makes caring for the device even easier.

As for the number of simultaneous keystrokes, thanks to the presence of a printed circuit board and, as a result, a lot of opportunities for the implementation of complex means of bypassing the limitations of the USB interface, most modern keyboards allow you to press an unlimited number of keys without any problems (usually denoted as NKRO or N-Key Rollover). However, a discrete connection via the PS / 2 interface in itself removes all restrictions, so if you are the owner of a relic PS / 2 motherboard, you can ignore this issue at all. But let's move on to the main thing.

Mechanical switches

A switch or switch (from the English switch) consists of a housing, a running gear with a return spring and a contact itself. To register a press, you do not need to press it all the way. The full stroke on all commonly used switch models is 4 mm, and the press is registered already at the 2 mm mark. It works the other way too. You do not have to press the key all the way to activate the key again, because the reset point is just above the activation point. This greatly simplifies and speeds up the work with the keyboard.

Different types of switches have different pressing force depending on the force installed inside the spring. It is in the range of 45-60 grams, and this effort does not change over time! Considering that the fur. the switches are rated for 50-60 million clicks, which guarantees trouble-free operation without changing characteristics for many years.

The mechanical switch device made it possible to add such an element as tactility to the pressing process. This is a slight increase in pressing force at the point before the actuation point. Many players, hooked on tactile switches, can no longer use any others, because they physically feel the moment the key is triggered. This allows you to use the keyboard more confidently without being distracted by checking the fact of operation. Some switches complement the tactility with an audible click. This, according to reviews, significantly speeds up printing. The captain of the evidence reports that such switches are called tactile.

Switches that do not have any kind of recoil are called linear switches. They are pressed softer and more pleasantly than tactile ones, but you do not recognize the moment of key actuation by touch.

Types and brands of switches

There are two major mechanical switch manufacturers on the market today. These are the German company Cherry and the Chinese company Kaihua. The switches themselves are named Cherry MX and Kailh respectively. If you soberly assess the scale of the war between lovers of Apple and Samsung, then, let's say, the intensity of the holivar between the fans of the above switches is about the same. It is believed that Cherry MX is more reliable and Kailh is cheaper. However, no indicative tests have been carried out so far, and current statistics show that there is no difference in reliability between the brands, and Kailh is indeed cheaper. Maybe the fact is that production in the PRC, in principle, requires less costs than in Germany, which is famous for the complexity of the laws, the severity of the bureaucracy and the abundance of duties?

In addition to the above, there are also "proprietary" switches. For example, Logitech makes keyboards with Romer-G switches that are somewhat different from all the others. Also, under its own brand, switches are produced by Razer. However, they are assembled at the Kaihua plant and have similar characteristics to Kailh, so we will not focus on them. The QS1 branded switches for SteelSeries are also assembled by Kaihua, however, they differ from the serial Kailh, and we will consider them below.

There are several basic types of switches, and they are usually distinguished by their colors. The color of a derailleur is not only the color of the plastic from which its chassis is made, but also its characteristics. Cherry and Kaihua both adhere to the same switch color coding, but if you compare Cherry MX and Kailh switches in the same color, the latter will have about 10 grams more pressing force. Kailh - more rigid switches. However, their declared durability is also higher. The editors, however, are inclined to believe that this is just a marketing ploy.

Below we will first look at Cherry MX switches. Using the information above, you can independently form an idea of ​​their counterparts from the Kailh series.

Linear switches

Black switches are the standard of mechanics. As a rule, they are the first to be cited as an example when they talk about mechanical keyboards, since this type of switch appeared first, back in 1984. Cherry MX Black does not have a click or tactile feedback and is therefore not the best for typing, but great for gamers who need to pound on the keys frequently. The pressing force at the actuation point is 60 grams, at the end point - 80 grams.

• Tactile feedback: no
• Click: no
• Actuation force: 60 g at actuation point, 80 g at end point
• Analogs: Kailh Black, partially SteelSeries QS1

By and large, red switches are the same black ones, but with a weaker spring. The pressing force at the actuation point is only 45 grams, and at the final one - 60 grams. Otherwise, they follow the Cherry MX Black design: no click, no tactile feedback. Red switches are believed to be the choice of professional players. This opinion, however, is often disputed by the progamers themselves. Not everyone likes low force, and some have fingers so heavy that their weight makes these keys too light. Some, on the other hand, find working with the keyboard on the "red" as pleasant as possible. For 2015, the Cherry factory does not produce very many Red switches, and therefore not all keyboards on Cherry MX can be represented by the corresponding modification.

• Tactile feedback: no
• Click: no
• Actuation force: 45 g at actuation point, 60 g at end point
• Analogs: Kailh Red, partially SteelSeries QS1

• SteelSeries QS1

These switches are built around one of Kailh's RGB switches and are similar in design to the Logitech Romer-G. They also register pressure 1.5 mm from the top point, and the total stroke of the switch does not exceed 3 mm. The QS1, however, are linear, with 45 grams of force required, so they are similar to the Cherry MX Red in terms of pressing. There was no open data on the durability of these switches at the time of this writing. The first keyboard equipped with the QS1 was the SteelSeries Apex M800.

• Tactile feedback: no
• Click: no
• Actuation force: 45 g at actuation point
• Analogs: partly Cherry MX Red, partly Kailh Red

Hybrid capacitive switches

• Topre

None of the above brands produce capacitive switches, now only Japanese Topre are represented on the gaming peripherals market. By their structure, they are also mechanical: a spring is installed inside, which returns the chassis to its place. However, the sensor is responsible for registering the pressing, which measures the capacitance of the contacts at the bottom of the switch, which changes depending on the degree of pressing. At a certain moment, a trigger is recorded.

These switches are softer and quieter than linear mechanical switches and are just as reliable. They are equally convenient for games and for typing, and therefore could be the "golden choice" for any user. If not for their price. At the beginning of 2016, a simple keyboard without backlighting and bells and whistles cost about 200 US dollars.

• Tactile feedback: yes
• Click: no
• Pressing force: from 30 g
• Analogues: no

We did not mention Greetech switches, which also copy Cherry MX, but at the moment in the Russian market they are presented only on Bloody keyboards, and they cannot be considered mass.

In general, there are a number of other brands, including the well-known Alps and some types of switches with a spring as a push mechanism, but within the Russian Federation and the CIS in the mass market, keyboards with them cannot be found in principle, therefore they are not described in this article.

So to take the mechanics or not?

Take. Mechanical keyboards have been on the market long enough for statistics to be considered indicative. They are much more reliable and durable than membrane keyboards and have much less impact on the joints of the fingers during prolonged use. They are easy to disassemble for cleaning and are much more spill resistant.

Continuation for enthusiasts: keycaps

Standard keycaps

Most serial keyboards come with keycaps (keycaps) made of plain ABS plastic. It is cheap, lightweight, but with intensive use it steadily loses the matte finish applied to it and begins to shine. Standard keycaps usually use simple casting (double will be discussed below). In most cases, one of two methods of applying symbols to the caps is used.

Dye

Normal diffusion resistant paint. A fairly reliable method that provides good readability of characters even in low light. However, the texture of the paint on keycaps, as a rule, is not uniform, which contributes to the accumulation of dirt in its microcracks. Thus, the letters printed with white paint quickly turn black and spoil the appearance of the device. Unfortunately, traditional methods of cleaning the caps using alcohol-containing liquids in these cases are ineffective. Plus, over time, the paint is still erased.

Sly users, after purchase, coat the symbols of the most frequently used keys with a transparent varnish. However, this increases the risk of your finger slipping off the keycap at the wrong time.

In addition, the paint applied to the symbol is felt with the fingers, which not everyone likes.

Laser engraving

This method is used when applying symbols on keycaps of light keyboards without backlighting (opaque engraving) and any backlit keyboards (transparent engraving). On light-colored keyboards without backlighting, the engraved character will read as well as paint, but will never wear off. In this case, it will be felt with your fingers. However, on dark keyboards, it will blend in with the keycap.

For backlit keyboards, engraving is the best option for making characters transparent. However, again, on dark keyboards with the backlight turned off, in reality, such characters are practically unreadable under any lighting conditions.

Advanced keycaps

Some enthusiasts prefer to order more expensive keycaps from third parties and replace standard keycaps with them. Their choice often falls on PBT plastic kits. It is stronger and heavier than ABS, but its surface is much more stable, and therefore will not wear off and will never shine and thereby spoil the appearance of the keyboard. In this regard, such keycaps look much better, since they often have a more expensive coating; the manufacturer and the buyer can be sure that it will not wear off with intensive use. Methods for characterizing PBT keycaps include both paint and engraving. But there are also more expensive methods that are not used on production models.

Deep staining (sublimation)

This is the name of the process in which the paint is applied not to the surface of the keycap, but to the inside of a recess made in the form of a symbol. Such paint cannot be erased during normal use, and the surface of the keycap will be absolutely smooth to the touch. The painting technology does not allow painting light letters on dark plastic. However, printing can be multi-colored (including within one key), which allows you to decorate the keyboard with colors unusual for the mass market. Sublimation is an expensive process and one set of 104 deep dyed PBT keycaps can cost anywhere from $ 30 to $ 60.

It would be incorrect to call double casting a method of applying a symbol. This is an advanced method of making a whole keycap, in the process of which both the cap itself and its exterior are formed at the same time. This keycap consists of two layers. The bottom layer is made of plastic in the form of a reduced keycap with symbols protruding on it. The top layer is also made of plastic, but in full size and with slots for the protruding parts of the bottom layer. The colors of the layers are selected depending on the desired color scheme of the keycap. Double molding allows you to use any combination of cap and symbol colors, and is also suitable for making keycaps for backlighting, in which case the lower plastic layer should be transparent. The symbols on these caps cannot be erased and, when used with PBT plastic, they retain their beautiful appearance indefinitely. Minus one - a very high price. One quality set of 104 double-molded PBT keycaps from a well-known brand can cost $ 70-80.