A mechanical keyboard has a set of keycaps that are attached to switches underneath. The switches are spring-loaded devices that require more or less pressure to actuate, and some make a clicking sound when activated.
Switches have different properties and can be modified to change their feel and sound, which is why many people are drawn to mechanical keyboards. Some even go so far as to modify the entire switch itself for a more personalized typing experience.
Keyboard structure
In a typical keyboard, each key uses a rubber dome to register its press. The dome completes the circuit on the keyboard’s printed circuit board (PCB) below when pressed, but they lack tactile feedback and often feel “mushy” or “spongey.”
A mechanical keyboard combines a spring-activated switch with two metal contacts underneath each key. This enables them to register critical presses more distinctly than membrane keyboards that use rubber domes.
There are two main types of mechanical keyboards: buckling spring and capacitive. The former was used in the legendary IBM Model M keyboard, and the latter utilizes a pattern of D-shaped capacitor pads that change the capacitance when pressed.
Another common problem with mechanical key switches is signal bouncing. This occurs when two metal contacts complete a circuit and generate multiple signals that must be denounced to ensure only one is registered.
Some gaming keyboards can even detect this bouncing behaviour and adjust the keycaps and stabilizers to reduce the likelihood of it happening in the first place. These changes are called “mods,” They include changing the plate material, case, lubrication, keycap profile and modifying individual switches to reduce wobble or resistance.
Some gaming keyboards are also available with different rubber O-ring sound dampeners that can be installed on the keycaps to reduce the noise caused by fully depressing a switch dramatically. These O-rings are also an easy way to modify the sound of a mechanical keyboard and make it more enjoyable for gamers.
Keycaps
Keycaps are pieces of plastic that cover the key switches on a standard mechanical keyboard. They can be used to customize a keyboard’s appearance and change how it functions.
Keycaps can be made of different materials and are available in various colours, shapes, and designs. The material can be a factor in the sound of the keys, the durability, and the touch feel.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) are the most common plastics used to make keycaps. These types of keycaps are impact resistant, lightweight, and durable.
These types of keycaps are also less expensive than other keycaps. The only drawback to ABS is that they can become shiny over time if not coated. Our unique UV coating process makes these keycaps much more resistant to essential shine than bare ABS.
Other types of keycaps include polycarbonate and acrylic. These materials are usually blended into ABS to create a clearer, more transparent keycap. They are also impact resistant and are commonly used for coloured, transparent keycaps.
POM (polyoxymethylene) is another plastic that can make keycaps. This is the same material used to make the sliders on some mechanical keyboards. This material is non-yellowing, which means it does not yellow over time like polystyrene or ABS.
Alps switches are a variation of the buckling spring design, which uses a plastic slider to depress the switch stem into the housing. They were used in the early Apple computer keyboards and are often seen on Cherry MX-compatible designs.
Switches
Switches are a mechanical keyboard’s main component and determine each keystroke’s activation. There are many different types of switches out there, ranging from firm to light and everything in between. But the most crucial factor when choosing a keyboard switch is that it fits your typing style and preferences.
Tactile and Clicky switches are known for their tactility and sound. They create a thick “thick” when you bottom out on the switch, whereas linear provide a smooth and consistent keypress.
In addition, they have a high operating force to ensure the actuation of each key, and they can be very loud when pressed down. This is why some people install rubber O-rings on their keycap stems that dampen the noise produced by a fully depressed switch.
Mechanical keyboard switches have a lifespan of 50 million or more, so it’s essential to choose a quality mechanical keyboard that offers this longevity. WASD uses Cherry MX switches in all their keyboards,, and mount them to a thick steel plate before soldering them on the PCB for a more stable typing experience. Moreover, they have a lifetime guarantee of 100 million keystrokes,, so you can be sure to get your money’s worth when buying a mechanical keyboard.
Life
The life cycle is a term used to describe the process that living things go through. During this cycle, they undergo several changes that help them evolve into new forms or die out. This is the same for mechanical keyboards, where different parts may break down or become damaged over time.
The lifespan of a mechanical keyboard depends on various factors, including how it is used and what kind of environmental conditions it is exposed to. For example, if you use it for gaming all day long, it will be much more likely to wear out than if you only type a few sentences now and then.
Another factor affecting a mechanical keyboard’s lifespan is how hard it is pressed. This can vary based on how old you are, your strength, how far a key is on the keyboard and your mood.
One of the significant benefits of mechanical keyboards is that they can be repaired relatively easily. If a critical cap gets dirty, you can remove and clean it or replace it with a new one.
As with all mechanical devices, you will want to ensure that your keyboard is well-maintained and free from dust or dirt. This can be done by cleaning it with a cloth or a can of compressed air.
You will also want to check the switches for cracks or scratches that can lead to them wearing out more quickly. This will allow you to get a replacement part before they completely break down, which can increase the longevity of your keyboard.
Conclusion
Mechanical keyboards are widely preferred for their distinct advantages over other types of keyboards. One of the primary benefits of mechanical keyboards is their tactile feedback. These keyboards use individual mechanical switches for each key, resulting in a satisfying click or tactile bump when pressed. This feedback can help users type faster and with greater accuracy.
