Mechanical keyboards have become more popular as more people are leaning towards a customizable typing experience either for gaming or for work. One of the ways to customize your keyboard is by finding the right switch for you.
Mechanical switches are known for their durability and responsiveness per touch. They are entirely different from the membrane switches that are found on traditional keyboards that we grew up with.
Before investing your money in the deep world of keyboard switches, you must know first the feeling that you want when pressing the keys and the type of noise that you can tolerate when using it.
Here are some tips that a beginner could refer to before diving into the world of mechanical keyboards:
Know Your Noise Tolerance
Mechanical keyboards are commonly associated with noisy typing. Most people are scared of owning one since it could be expensive and noisy at the same time.
Hence, it is important to know how much noise you can tolerate once you start typing on your keyboard. Clicky switches tend to be loud while tactical and linear switches are less loud. Moreover, there are now companies that release silent switches for people who prefer it.
Switch Actuation Force
The actuation force refers to the force required to press and register a key. Some switches require less effort to press the keys while others have a heavy feeling and have typing feedback.
Some louder switches provide a light feel, hence they do not require that much force to use. However, if you prefer to use silent switches, you may have to deal with exerting more effort in pressing the keys.
Try Before You Buy
For beginners, it is advisable to never rely on YouTube videos that you see or just eyeball them on the online shopping platform. While some YouTubers try to portray as accurately as possible, you can never be sure to get the same quality unless you have the same model of keyboard, keycaps, and more.
Nothing will ever beat the feeling of trying out different switches before purchasing a keyboard. You can visit the nearest electronics stores around you and see if they offer sample switch pad wherein you can try and compare the switches.
Call a Friend
If you are feeling shy, you can try contacting one of your friends who owns mechanical keyboards. You can ask if they are willing to let you feel their switches or even ask for advice.
You can also take note of the differences in what you would expect your keyboard will be. In this way, you have a solid foundation of what you want when you customize your thing.
It's All About Personal Preferences
At the end of the day, it is all about personal choices. The ideal keyboard of your friend may come off annoying to you, and vice-versa.
Entering the world of customizable keyboards is an endless journey of discovery. You might find yourself leaning towards linear switches and then the next year you might be interested in trying tactile.
Related Article : Pros and Cons of Every Mechanical Keyboard Size
