This article is part of our Computers, Components & Peripherals resource section
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Gaming Keyboards
Have you finally decided to opt for PC rather than console games? The keyboard for the pc is what the controller for the console is, if you are not comfortable with it, it can affect your abilities and your gaming experience.
A gaming keyboard is an important part of your computer setup, just like other essential computer hardware components. Choosing the right combination of peripherals can make your gaming experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
This is why you have to take your time when choosing a keyboard for games and especially the type of switches on your mechanical keyboard. If you don’t know what type of mechanical switches to choose, here are the recommendations to help you find the model that’s right for you.
Before making a purchase, it is worth understanding the qualities of a great keyboard, including its construction, responsiveness, comfort and durability.
Choose Switches According to the Tactile Feeling
The tactile feeling is a crucial point when you choose your keyboard switch for gaming. Based on the tactile feeling, we can classify the keyboards in two categories, namely the linear switches and the tactile switches.
Linear switches are the classic form you find on membrane keyboards. In practice, all you have to do is push the button down and a spring with its own intensity puts the button back in place.
I recommend it if you need fluidity during the game. The linear switch options that I recommend are the MX Red or the Mx Black from Cherry.
Otherwise, you also have touch switches that stand out from linear switches by the presence of a “bump”. The “bump” is a slight overweight or small relief that you feel when passing at the activation point. This type of switch is therefore recommended if you want to have a feedback when you press the button.
If you are not a neophyte in touch switches, it may take some time to get used to it. For this type of switch, I recommend the Cherry Mx Brown which is a reference.
Gamers who prefer a slimmer keyboard design can also explore low-profile mechanical keyboards, which offer a different form factor while retaining mechanical switch technology.
Noisy or Silent Switches
Consider the sound your switches make. This noise parameter is not obvious. Each gamer has their own preferences. Some like to hear the keys. This lets them feel the action. Others prefer to avoid noise. They only want to hear the game. This helps them concentrate better.
If the keyboard sound is not disturbing, choose “Clicky” switches. A metal barrier produces a very specific click sound. It is placed at the actuation point. The small drawback is pressure metering. It is hard not to press the button fully. This type takes a little getting used to. Cherry MX Blue switches are especially common.
If you want a silent mechanical keyboard, choose tactile switches. You can opt for the Cherry MX Brown (Brown). These are tactile switches but they make no activation click.
The choice between different switch technologies also makes it useful to understand membrane and mechanical keyboards, particularly their differences in construction, typing feedback and operation.
Keyboard maintenance is equally important, especially when dust and debris accumulate between frequently used keys. You can follow these practical tips on how to clean a keyboard to keep your gaming equipment in good condition.
Activation Force, Resistance and Activation Distance
Among the criteria not to be overlooked, the actuation force and the activation distance are the most determining at the technical level.
If you are a gamer of the casual type, it is obvious that this type of criterion will not be obvious to you. But for a pro gamer, it can make all the difference in feeling.
The activation distance refers to the activation of the key via a precise depth and pressure. If the distance is short, then it means that the keyboard is more responsive, but also more sensitive. The perfect activation distance depends on each gamer, but the average is 2mm.
As for the actuation force, it is the force that you must deploy with your finger to press the key and reach the activation distance of 2 mm. For gaming, a greater actuation force is preferable to avoid missteps. There is no standard operating force. It can range from 45 to 60 g and is limited by a threshold called maximum force.
Each brand defines its standards; it is also a way for them to stand out from the competition. Among the most interesting options, the Mx Red from Cherry is recognized as the best option for gaming. These are switches of the linear type which do not produce a click (noise). It meets the standard of 2 mm for the actuation distance and requires an actuation force of 45 g.
When comparing different gaming keyboards, buyers should also consider layout, connectivity, build quality and additional features. This guide to purchasing a gaming keyboard can help identify the features that matter before choosing a model.
For gamers who value distinctive aesthetics alongside performance, Akko keyboard designs offer another perspective on keyboard styling and customization.
Comfort should also be considered when selecting a keyboard for long gaming sessions. Exploring ergonomic keyboards can help you understand alternative layouts and designs intended to support a more natural typing position.
A wireless keyboard can be another practical choice for gamers who want fewer cables around their desks. The Logitech K800 Wireless Illuminated Keyboard is an example of a wireless model with illuminated keys.
Your gaming setup also benefits from choosing a suitable mouse. These 8 latest gaming mice for swift clicking and slashing introduce different designs and features for gaming enthusiasts.
Understanding how input devices work can also provide useful background. For example, learning about the mechanical mouse helps explain the evolution of traditional computer pointing devices.
If you occasionally need to type without a physical keyboard, a virtual keyboard can provide an alternative way to enter text and interact with your computer.
