Welcome to our ultimate guide to linear mechanical switches. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the benefits, features, and comparisons of linear mechanical switches.
Linear mechanical switches are widely used in mechanical keyboards, providing users with a smooth and consistent typing experience. If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard, or just interested in learning more about linear mechanical switches, you've come to the right place.
Benefits of Linear Mechanical Switches
Linear mechanical switches offer a variety of benefits over other types of switches, including membrane switches and tactile switches. One of the main benefits of linear mechanical switches is the smooth linear action. Unlike tactile switches, which have a bump in the middle of the keystroke, linear switches have a consistent force throughout the entire keystroke.
This makes them ideal for fast typists and gamers who require quick and precise keystrokes. Additionally, linear switches are relatively quiet, making them a popular choice for office environments where noise is a concern.
Features of Linear Mechanical Switches
Linear mechanical switches come in a variety of different types, each with its own unique features. Some of the most popular types of linear switches include Cherry MX Red, Gateron Red, and Kailh Red.
Cherry MX Red switches are widely regarded as the gold standard for linear switches. They have a smooth keystroke and a light actuation force of 45g, making them popular with gamers and typists alike. Gateron Red switches are similar to Cherry MX Reds but are often more affordable. Kailh Red switches are another popular option, offering a slightly heavier actuation force of 50g.
In addition to the type of switch, linear mechanical switches also come in different sizes and shapes. Full-size switches, for example, are the most common and are used in most mechanical keyboards. However, there are also smaller options, such as the 65% and 60% layouts, which are becoming increasingly popular.
Comparisons of Linear Mechanical Switches
When comparing different types of linear mechanical switches, it's important to consider a variety of factors, including actuation force, key travel distance, and durability.
Actuation force refers to the amount of force required to register a keystroke. Cherry MX Reds, for example, have an actuation force of 45g, while Kailh Reds have an actuation force of 50g. Key travel distance refers to the distance the key travels when pressed, with shorter distances typically resulting in faster typing speeds. Durability is also an important consideration, with some switches rated for up to 100 million keystrokes.
In terms of actuation force and key travel distance, Cherry MX Reds and Gateron Reds are very similar. However, Kailh Reds require slightly more force to register a keystroke, which may not be ideal for some users. When it comes to durability, all three switches are rated for up to 50 million keystrokes, making them durable and long-lasting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, linear mechanical switches offer a variety of benefits over other types of switches. They provide a smooth and consistent typing experience, making them ideal for fast typists and gamers. Additionally, they are relatively quiet, making them a popular choice for office environments.
When it comes to choosing a specific type of linear switch, it's important to consider factors such as actuation force, key travel distance, and durability. Cherry MX Reds, Gateron Reds, and Kailh Reds are all popular options, each with their own unique features and benefits.
We hope this guide has been helpful in providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision when choosing a mechanical keyboard with linear mechanical switches. Happy typing!