Mechanical keyboard: Switches and form factors

In short: On mechanical keyboards every key has its own switch, which determines feel, sound and actuation point.

In more detail: Normal office keyboards use a rubber mat (rubber dome) under all keys. Mechanical keyboards use a separate switch with a spring for each key. They are more durable (often 50 million keystrokes), repairable and individually customisable but louder and more expensive.

In Depth

Switch types

• Linear (for example Cherry MX Red, Gateron Yellow): even resistance without a tactile bump, quiet, popular with gamers.
• Tactile (Cherry MX Brown): noticeable bump but hardly any click, good for typing and gaming.
• Clicky (Cherry MX Blue): bump and audible click, very distinct feedback but loud. Further properties: actuation force (light 45 g to heavy 80 g), travel (distance to actuation, usually 2 mm of 4 mm) and housing material. New: Hall-effect and optical switches that switch magnetically or by light without contact.

Form factors

The size is given as a percentage of the full-size keyboard: 100 % (with number pad), TKL / 80 % (without number pad), 75 %, 65 %, 60 % (without arrow keys and function keys). Smaller keyboards save space but require layers with an Fn key. Layouts: ISO (German, tall Enter key) or ANSI (US).

Customisation

Many boards allow hot-swap: switches can be replaced without soldering. Keycaps of ABS or PBT, case, dampening (foam) and lubrication of the switches change sound and feel. Firmware such as QMK or VIA allows custom key mappings and macros. Connection: cable, 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth.

Choosing and tips

Try switches beforehand (tester sets). For office or shared rooms quiet linear or tactile switches are pleasant; clicky switches disturb others. Ergonomics matter too: wrist rest, tilt and regular breaks protect the wrists.

See also: Keyboard, Using the keyboard, Ergonomics at the computer workstation