Mechanical Keyboard Switches: Gaming vs. Typing

A mechanical keyboard is what every computer user wants, which is fast, highly responsive, and have a long lifespan. There are subtle differences between them that confuse users. Like what is a red mechanical switch or a blue mechanical switch? Which is good for gaming, and which is satisfactory to type on?

By the end of this article, you will understand the difference between the most popular mechanical keyboard switches and their specific applications. Before we dive into the details, there is a baseline knowledge we would like to share with our readers about these mechanical switches.

Laying the Foundation: A Primer on Mechanical Keyboard Switches

There are some terms that we will use throughout the article, therefore let’s explore the terms to understand these switches better.

● Mechanical Switches

These are like buttons underneath the keys on the keyboard, which make the electrical connection to send the computer signal to register a keypress. The mechanism of mechanical elements moving to make contact inspired the name.

● Mechanical vs. Membrane

A membrane is a rubber or metal-based material made in layers that acts like a button for keyboards when pressed. The membrane feels mushy compared to a mechanical keyboard switch. It is less tactile and has lower response time. However, membranes are quiet by design.

● Switch Tester

Membrane keyboards feel alike, but mechanical switches can differ based on design. Users who want to test and feel for a switch's performance and find out if it's satisfactory for them can buy a switch tester. Different brands have switch testers for various mechanical color switches.

Why Do Gaming and Typing Need Different Mechanical Switches?

Gaming and typing require different characteristics from a mechanical keyboard switch, such as sound, response time, tactility, and actuation force. We must know how gaming and typing are other from an application standpoint.

Gaming: Speed and Precision

Whether you are playing heart-pumping Fortnite or a nerve-wracking PUBG game, keyboard movements and maneuvers are vital to secure a win. What gaming needs is precision and speed. Depending on different genres and conditions, the switch's nature may differ. You will need a silent keyboard if you are playing your game while streaming. So here are some of the aspects you need in gaming.

First Person Shooters (FPS) - Fast Response

FPS games require rapid response as they are very fast-paced. A split-second decision can lead others to overshadow your performance. A mechanical keyboard switch with a lower response time is best suited for FPS games. A smaller actuation distance and force are ideal for these games. Most world gaming competitions are based on FPS games, making performance and accuracy a vital part of this genre.

Open World Games - Satisfactory Click

These games aim to make your experience pleasant. Tactility and satisfactory keypress are desirable in this genre. A mechanical keyboard switch that provides comfort and better light pass-through is best for this genre. The type of switch can be similar to typing as they both target satisfaction over performance.

Action & Adventure Games - Low Actuation Force

After first-person shooter, action and adventure games take the front seat in streaming. These games need ultra-silent mechanical keyboard switches. Loud and noisy can disrupt users watching experience and mess with the microphone.

Typing: Words and Comfort

Computers are a vital part of any office or work environment. Making sure that the right environment has the right keyboard is critical. A loud and noisy keyboard can be off putting for another co-worker in the shared space.

Cubicles - Ultra Silent

Offices are generally cubicle style, providing effective communication and environmental awareness. As all the co-workers are in a shared space, loudness can disturb or disrupt the workflow. Ultra-silent mechanical keyboard switches are ideal in this scenario.

Construction Work - Loud and Dust-Proof

In an open environment with noisy machinery at work and dusty conditions, loud and dust-proof mechanical keyboard switches are ideal. They provide the audible feedback and durability required for harsh conditions.

Industrial Application - Tactile

Control and human-machine interface are a vital part of any industry. Keyboards provide the interface to commands to perform functions. A tactile mechanical keyboard switch with high actuation force makes the best HMI device.

Comparison of Different Keyboard Mechanical Switches

Color plays a crucial role in mechanical switches. It represents the critical switch's overall response, feel, and application. Here are the most popular keyboard mechanical switches:

Cherry MX Red Switches - Gaming Oriented

Red switches are the way to go if you are looking for a fast keyboard switch. Their linear movements make them ideal for fast-paced applications like gaming. Outemu and Cherry MX are the most popular switches available. Here are the characteristics specific to the Cherry MX mechanical switch:

● Linear Movement

● 45 cN Operating Force

● 2.0 mm Pre-Travel

● 4.0 mm Total Travel

● No Click

Cherry MX Brown Switches - Meant for Typists

Brown switches are ideal for content writers or data entry specialists. They are tactile but do not produce any sound that could disrupt your working rhythm or the people around you. The design aims to provide a satisfactory typing experience with minimal finger movement to prevent stress. It's ergonomic and silent at the same time.

● Tactile but Silent

● 55 cN Operating Force

● 2.0 mm Pre-Travel

● 4.0 mm Total Travel

● No Click

Cherry MX Blue Switches - Casual Gamers

Playing Grand Theft Auto 6 or Max Payne on your computer is directly aimed at having a good time. These games take your daily worries away by immersing you in an enjoyable environment. There cannot be a better companion than a keyboard with Blue switches. Outemu and Cherry MX are equally durable and performance-oriented. As a casual gamer, you will find relevance in these characteristics:

● Tactile and Audible

● 60 cN Operating Force

● 2.2 mm Pre-Travel

● 4.0 mm Total Travel

● With Click

Outemu Dust Proof Black - Industrial Application

The industrial application requires switches that are reliable and long-lasting. They must perform in the most challenging situations like heat, dust, and moisture. Outemu Dust Proof Black provides a high actuation force and small travel for accuracy.

● Linear

● 60 cN Operating Force

● 2.0 mm Pre-Travel

● 4.0 mm Total Travel

● With Click

Best Mechanical Keyboard for Gaming

MEETION MK600RD - Gaming Mechanical Keyboard

RGB lighting, Red Mechanical Keyboard Switches, Full-Size and Double-Shot PBT keycaps are the key highlights of MEETION MK600RD. The keyboard quality and characteristics speak gaming. The full-scale layout is perfect for any game genre or office work. The excellent price/performance ratio makes the keyboard more compelling for a white gaming setup. It also comes with custom macro programming directly embedded in the hardware to assist in some games.

Best Mechanical Keyboard for Typing

MEETION MK01 - Durability and Reliability

In an office environment, keyboards are constantly used and may fail if not selected correctly. Only some people are careful with their equipment, which makes reliability and durability an essential aspect of any keyboard under such conditions. MEETION MK01 is an excellent keyboard with high-quality Outemu Blue mechanical keyboard switches that are popular for their tactile feel. We would not recommend using it in a cubicle office, but it's best for a closed-room office and executives.

Conclusion

After going through the article, we hope you understand that there are many choices when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. They can be tactile, linear, silent, and noisy, depending on the color you select from the manufacturer. There are two big manufacturers, Outemu and Cherry MX. Both of them have an excellent lineup of switches.

If you want to check all the types, use a switch tester to get a feel of all the switches before selecting one for your setup. After that, if you buy a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard, you can change your switches at any time with any type you like. Overall, it comes down to the user to decide what is best. Do check out the complete lineup of MEETION mechanical keyboards. They are durable and performance-oriented.