While all rubber dome keyboards function this same way, different materials and construction make some better than others. When the key is released, the rubber dome pushes the key back up, separating the circuits. These connected circuits register a keypress. When a key is pressed, a rubber dome on the membrane collapses, pushing the circuits together. A keycap is attached to a plastic housing, which sits on top of a membrane sheet layered on top of printed circuits. Membrane keyboards operate by completing a circuit. If you're looking for something incredibly silent, a membrane keyboard is for you. You can find linear Red switches in the Apex M750, while the Apex M500 comes in both linear Red and clicky Blue switches. When the key is released, the spring pushes up and the connection between the leaves is reset. When the key is pressed, the spring buckles and the slider pushes one metal leaf against another, triggering a keypress. The slider sits inside of the metal spring, which provides resistance and resets the key to its resting position.
The switch housing contains all the moving parts, including the metal leaves, a plastic slider, and a metal spring. A keycap is mounted to a plastic stem, which sits on top of the switch housing. Mechanical keyboards actuate when two metal components (known as "leaves") make contact. If you have roommates, the loud clicking of these switches WILL drive them insane. Like tactile switches, clicky switches feature a tactile “bump," but also create a distinctive “click” when pressed.Ĭlicky switches are best for typing, but the actuation force required can slow reaction time. Tactile switches are perfect if accurate keypresses and tactile feedback are more important than speed.Ĭlicky Switches Popular Models: Blue, Green Feel: Tactile Bump Sound Profile: Loud ClickĬlicky switches are easily recognized by their loud, clicky actuation.
This physical feedback increases accuracy, but reduces speed. Tactile switches are named for the tactile “bump” felt on actuation (when a keypress is registered). Tactile Switches Popular Models: Brown Feel: Tactile Bump Sound Profile: Quiet The same lack of feedback and resistance can, however, mean accidental keypresses. Linear switches are a favorite of fast-paced gamers. The lack of feedback allows for quick, twitch reactions with very little resistance. Linear switches feel smooth and consistent, with no tactile (physical) “bump” or audible click as the keypress registers. Linear Switches Popular Models: Red, Black Feel: Smooth, No Bump Sound Profile: Quiet Types of Mechanical Switchesĭespite their differences, mechanical switches fall into one of three categories: linear, tactile, or clicky. Finding the right combination of feel and sound can make a huge difference in your everyday life. Mechanical switches come in a variety of makes and models, often identified by colors (red, blue, black, etc). Not sure how switches work? Read more, then scroll back up!Ĭompared to rubber dome, mechanical switches offer a much more reliable and consistent experience.
Part of choosing the right gaming keyboard is understanding different switch types, whether rubber dome or mechanical.
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