![]() Linear: A smooth, typically quieter keystroke that can be silent.Tactile: Tactile feedback with a dampened click.Clicky: Tactile feedback with an audible click sound.The actuation type dictates how keys feel and sound when pressed. There are several ways to compare Cherry MX switches, although these characteristics are the most helpful ways to compare these mechanical switches: Actuation Type Note that Ultra Low Profile Cherry MX switches also feature gold crosspoint contacts and precision coil springs, but they swap the other components for stainless steel tension wings, metal base frames, and actuator/polymer sockets that register clicks and keep the contacts in position. Denoted by colors such as blue, red, and brown, each type of Cherry MX switch features a different combination of characteristics with unique performance benefits. In both a PCB-mounted Cherry MX switch, and a Plate-mounted Cherry MX switch the two pins from the gold crosspoint stick out the bottom, the only difference between the two housings is that a PCB-mounted housing base will only have one additional pin (for a total of three pins), and a Plate-mounted housing base will have three additional pins (for a total of five pins). Housing base: Made from plastic polymer and glass fiber, the housing base mounts Cherry MX switches to either the PCB (printed circuit board) or the plate of the keyboard. Precision coil spring: The spring provides resistance and returns the key to its unpressed position after a keystroke is made.ĥ. They’re self-cleaning, non-corrosive, and most are rated for up to 100 million actuations.Ĥ. Designed for precision, gold electrical contacts are used as the crosspoint for registering each keystroke and are the foundation of Cherry MX switch reliability and durability. Gold crosspoint contact: When the stem begins to move, it immediately makes a connection with the gold crosspoint which has two pins that go through the bottom of the switch and are soldered to the PCB (printed circuit board), transmitting the keystroke as an electrical impulse. On some switches, this mechanism actuates audible and tactical feedback.ģ. Switching slide/stem: When pressed, the keycap pushes down a certain amount of pre-travel distance on the stem when it slides inside the body of the switch. The upper housing is made from plastic polymer and is a CAD high-precision component that allows for next to no tolerance (less than 0.01 mm) with the switching slide, for more precise keystrokes.Ģ. It clips into the bottom housing, also known as the housing base. Upper housing: On the top of the switch is a piece of housing that makes up the top of the switch. ![]() Each switch is comprised of five components.ġ. SwitchĬherry MX Switches: Engineered for Performanceĭesigned and manufactured in Germany, Cherry MX switches are engineered for superior performance. Scroll down for more detailed explanations. This table compares some of the most popular Cherry MX switches being produced today. The following guide details the differences between Cherry MX switches so you can select the best switch for your next keyboard. Cherry currently makes several different keyboard switches, each with a unique combination of resistance, tactile and auditory feedback that caters to different uses and preferences. Originally founded in Illinois in 1953, Cherry moved to Auerbach in der Oberpfalz, Germany in 1979, and in 1983 the first MX Switch (the MX Black) was introduced. Cherry MX switches have a storied past and are considered some of the best-in-class key switches for mechanical keyboards, revered by writers, gamers, programmers, and Esports pros for their performance, comfort, and durability.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |