Types of Mechanical Keyboards: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right One

Mechanical keyboards are popular for their durability, tactile feedback, and satisfying keypress experience. But did you know there are different types of mechanical keyboards out there? Whether you’re a gamer, typist, or just someone who loves a reliable keyboard, there’s a perfect fit for everyone. In this guide, we’ll break down the various types of mechanical keyboards and help you decide which one suits your style and needs. Let’s dive in!

What Is a Mechanical Keyboard?

A mechanical keyboard uses individual mechanical switches under each key to register a keystroke. Unlike membrane or rubber dome keyboards, which use a sheet of rubber or silicone to create a press when you push a key, mechanical keyboards rely on distinct mechanisms under each keycap. These switches are made up of several parts, including a stem, a spring, and metal contacts, which give them a more satisfying typing feel, faster response, and greater durability.

Mechanical keyboards have exploded in popularity over the last decade, mainly due to their tactile feel and reliability. Whether you're a gamer who needs fast key presses or a professional who types for hours every day, a mechanical keyboard can significantly improve your typing experience.

Types of Mechanical Switches

One of the most important aspects of mechanical keyboards is the type of switches they use. These switches can drastically alter how the keyboard feels and sounds. Below are the main categories of mechanical switches you'll encounter:

1. Linear Switches

Linear switches are known for their smooth key presses. There’s no tactile bump or click when the key is pressed, which makes them an excellent choice for gamers who need quick and smooth key actuations. Since there is no interruption or feedback in the press, these switches allow for fast and uninterrupted typing or gaming. The absence of a bump ensures that the key travels smoothly from start to finish without resistance. For gamers, this type of switch is perfect for rapid key presses or fast-paced games where precision and speed are crucial.

Popular Linear Switches:

• Cherry MX Red: One of the most common linear switches, known for its smooth and quiet operation. Ideal for gaming due to its quick response.

• Cherry MX Black: A heavier version of the Red switch, requiring more force to press. It’s often preferred by those who want to avoid accidental key presses.

Linear switches excel in providing a clean and uninterrupted keystroke. This smoothness ensures that typists or gamers can get a precise and fast response with minimal effort. With these switches, you can type or game without worrying about key resistance or feedback, which is particularly useful in games that demand quick reflexes.

2. Tactile Switches

Tactile switches are designed with a slight bump in the middle of the key press, giving you a physical indication that the key has been activated. This tactile feedback is beneficial for typists who need a clear, but non-distracting, indication that they’ve successfully pressed a key. Unlike linear switches, tactile switches offer more resistance at the point of actuation, which helps users feel the completion of their keystroke without needing to bottom out the key. This makes them a great choice for users who want feedback while typing without the loud noise that clicky switches produce.

Popular Tactile Switches:

• Cherry MX Brown: These switches provide a noticeable bump without the loud noise, offering a balanced experience for both gaming and typing.

• Kailh Brown: A similar switch to the Cherry MX Brown but slightly more affordable, commonly found in budget mechanical keyboards.

The tactile feedback provided by these switches is useful for typists and programmers who type for long hours. The small bump allows users to feel when they’ve pressed a key, which improves typing speed and accuracy. Since tactile switches are quieter than clicky switches, they are a great middle ground for those who need feedback but don’t want to disturb others.

3. Clicky Switches

Clicky switches are the loudest and most distinct mechanical switches. These switches feature both a tactile bump and an audible click when the key is pressed, which makes them highly satisfying for typists who enjoy the sound of their keystrokes. The click provides clear and audible feedback that the key has been activated, making them a favorite among writers, typists, and anyone who enjoys hearing their typing process. The tactile bump and click also add to the satisfaction of typing, making every keystroke feel more deliberate and precise.

Popular Clicky Switches:

• Cherry MX Blue: Known for its loud click and satisfying tactile bump. Popular among typists and writers.

• Razer Green: A clicky switch made by Razer, similar to Cherry MX Blues, with a tactile bump and sharp click.

Clicky switches are ideal for those who enjoy the satisfaction of hearing the sound of each keystroke. The clicking noise offers both audible and physical confirmation that a key has been pressed. While these switches can be distracting in shared workspaces, they provide an immersive typing experience for those who enjoy the sound and feel of typing.

4. Silent Switches

Silent switches are similar to their tactile or clicky counterparts but are designed specifically to minimize the noise produced when typing. While silent switches still provide tactile feedback or smoothness in actuation, they incorporate dampening mechanisms to reduce the sound made when the key is pressed or released. These switches are perfect for people who want the benefits of a mechanical keyboard but don’t want to disturb others with loud keystrokes, such as in an office setting or during late-night gaming sessions.

Popular Silent Switches:

• Cherry MX Silent Red: A quieter version of the Cherry MX Red, ideal for gaming without disturbing others.

• Cherry MX Silent Black: A silent, heavier version of the Black switch.

Silent switches allow users to enjoy the smoothness of a linear or tactile switch without the added noise. They are great for shared spaces or anyone who prefers a quieter typing experience while still maintaining the feedback from their switches. These switches are increasingly popular for those who want a balance of performance and discretion, offering a quieter alternative to the louder clicky switches.

Types of Mechanical Keyboards by Layout

The layout of a mechanical keyboard refers to the number and arrangement of the keys. There are several standard layouts, and choosing one depends on your typing style, desk space, and personal preference. Below are the most common types of mechanical keyboard layouts:

• Full-Size Keyboards: A full-size mechanical keyboard includes all the standard keys you’d expect: the alphabetic keys, number pad, function keys (F1 to F12), and the arrow keys. These are the most common layout and are preferred by users who need the full range of keys.

• Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboards: A Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard is similar to a full-size keyboard but without the number pad. This layout is compact and popular among gamers who want to save desk space while still maintaining access to most of the essential keys.

• 60% Keyboards: 60% keyboards are even more compact, omitting the function row, number pad, and arrow keys. This layout is favored by those who want the most portable keyboard possible, especially for gaming or minimalistic setups.

• 65% and 75% Keyboards: These layouts are somewhere between a full-size and a 60% layout. A 65% keyboard keeps the arrow keys but removes the number pad and function row, while a 75% layout includes the function row but still lacks the number pad.

Each keyboard layout serves different needs, and the best one for you depends on your personal preferences, workspace, and how you use the keyboard. Full-size keyboards offer all the keys you might need for work and data entry, while smaller layouts like TKL and 60% are great for those who prioritize portability and a clean desk setup. For a balance of functionality and compactness, 65% and 75% layouts provide a middle ground. 

Ultimately, the choice comes down to how much desk space you have and which keys you use most often.

Wordrunner: The Ultimate TKL Mechanical Keyboard

With the layout options in mind, we know that the tenkeyless design is especially popular for a variety of reasons. For some of us, it just hits that sweet spot between space-saving design and functionality. And that’s where our creation,Wordrunner, comes into play.

AtFreewrite, we set out to craft a mechanical keyboard that goes beyond just a traditional typing experience. Our mission was to merge functionality, comfort, and innovation into a single device that enhances productivity and makes your typing sessions more enjoyable. The result is the keyboard designed for anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance tool, whether you're typing, gaming, or working long hours.

One of the most innovative features of the Wordrunner is the 8-digit mechanical Wordometer. This real-time word counter tracks your word count as you type, providing an immediate and tangible measure of your productivity. Perfect for writers, journalists, programmers, or anyone who needs to track progress, the Wordometer helps keep you motivated by showing your real-time output. It’s a unique addition to the mechanical keyboard world, offering a practical tool for staying focused and accomplishing your typing goals.

Durability is key, and the keyboard’s sturdy construction guarantees it can handle extensive use, offering both style and functionality for any user.

Now, let's revisit our guide to ensure that all the key features are covered for an ideal typing and gaming experience.

Keycap Types and Materials

Keycaps are the plastic tops on the keys that display the characters. Mechanical keyboards offer a variety of keycap styles and materials, which can affect both the feel and the appearance of the keyboard. The keycap material not only impacts the tactile experience but also contributes to the keyboard’s durability, aesthetics, and overall longevity. Choosing the right keycap material is just as important as selecting the right switches for your typing or gaming experience.

ABS Keycaps

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps are made of a softer plastic material, which is why they are often cheaper than PBT keycaps. These keycaps are widely used in budget-friendly mechanical keyboards and are known for their easy moldability and vibrant color options. However, ABS keycaps tend to wear out faster compared to other materials, becoming shiny and slippery with prolonged use. Over time, the keycap surface can degrade due to the oils from your fingers, making them feel less satisfying to type on. While ABS keycaps are easy to replace and come in various styles and colors, their overall lifespan is shorter than more durable alternatives like PBT.

PBT Keycaps

PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) keycaps are more durable and resistant to wear and shine compared to ABS keycaps. PBT is a more robust material, providing a superior typing experience due to its thicker and textured feel. These keycaps are common on higher-end mechanical keyboards and are less prone to developing a shiny surface from extended use. PBT keycaps also offer better resistance to the fading of legends (the printed characters on the keycap), which is a common issue with ABS keycaps. While PBT keycaps tend to be more expensive than ABS options, they are favored by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for their premium feel and longevity.

Keycap Profiles

Keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of the keycaps. There are several keycap profiles, such as SA, DSA, Cherry, and OEM, each offering a different typing feel and aesthetic. The profile you choose can significantly affect your typing speed, comfort, and even the overall look of your keyboard. Some users prefer sculpted profiles that allow the fingers to rest naturally on the keys, while others prefer uniform, flat profiles for a minimalist look. The keycap profile can influence your typing ergonomics, making it a matter of personal preference.

Keycap profiles cater to a variety of typing preferences, from high-profile, sculpted designs like SA to the flatter, uniform designs of DSA. They can also be customized for aesthetic appeal, allowing you to select a profile that complements your personal style. However, some profiles may feel less ergonomic depending on how you type, and it’s important to consider how different profiles will affect your typing comfort.

Connectivity Options: Wired vs. Wireless

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, there are two main types of connectivity: wired and wireless. The choice depends on whether you prioritize portability or a more stable connection.

Wired Keyboards

Wired mechanical keyboards are the most common and are often preferred by gamers and professionals who require a fast, stable connection. They offer a reliable, low-latency connection that is ideal for high-speed tasks like gaming, where every keystroke counts. Since they are powered directly through the cable, there’s no need to worry about battery life, making them a practical choice for extended use. The absence of wireless interference or connection drops ensures that the keyboard remains responsive and consistent, which is especially important for tasks that demand precision. While wired keyboards can create some cable clutter, they are generally preferred for their stability and convenience.

Wireless Keyboards

Wireless mechanical keyboards are growing in popularity due to their convenience and portability. With technologies like Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz low-latency wireless, they provide a cleaner, clutter-free workspace, which is especially appealing for minimalist setups or for users on the go. Wireless keyboards are perfect for those who work remotely, travel often, or need to switch between devices without dealing with tangled cables. However, they do require charging or batteries, which may be inconvenient for some. The wireless connection can sometimes be less stable than a wired option, especially if the battery is low or there’s interference in the environment. Despite this, ongoing advancements in wireless technology continue to improve their performance and reliability.

Additional Features to Consider When Choosing a Mechanical Keyboard

When selecting a mechanical keyboard, there are several features beyond the basic switches, layout, and connectivity that can enhance your overall experience. These additional features can improve both functionality and comfort, depending on your needs.

• RGB Lighting and Customization: Many modern mechanical keyboards come equipped with RGB lighting. While this feature is often associated with aesthetics, it can also improve usability. Some keyboards allow you to customize the lighting for individual keys, creating a visual map for your most-used commands or macros. RGB lighting also adds a layer of personal style to your setup, with countless color schemes and effects to match your workspace. For gamers, RGB lights can sync with the game’s actions, providing an immersive experience.

• Programmable Keys and Macros: Consider a keyboard with programmable keys and macros to enhance productivity or gaming performance. These features allow you to assign specific commands or actions to individual keys, giving you quick access to complex functions without needing to memorize keyboard shortcuts. Programmable keys are particularly helpful for gamers who need to perform specific combos or for professionals who want to automate repetitive tasks.

• N-Key Rollover (NKRO) and Anti-Ghosting: It’s essential for gamers and typists who need to register multiple key presses simultaneously. This feature ensures that the keyboard registers all keys pressed, especially when gaming or typing quickly. Anti-Ghosting prevents the keyboard from incorrectly registering "phantom" keystrokes when multiple keys are pressed at once. Together, these features ensure your key presses are registered accurately without interference or errors.

• Key Switch Options (Hot-Swappable): Some high-end mechanical keyboards offer hot-swappable switches, allowing you to change the switches easily without soldering. This feature is perfect for enthusiasts who want to experiment with different switch types or need to replace worn-out switches. Hot-swappable keyboards provide a flexible and cost-effective way to customize your keyboard experience without needing to purchase a new one.

• Media Controls and Extra Ports: Many mechanical keyboards come with dedicated media controls, such as volume knobs, play/pause buttons, and skip track buttons. These are particularly useful if you listen to music, watch videos, or control media while working. Some keyboards also feature extra USB ports, allowing you to connect additional peripherals, such as a mouse, headset, or phone, helping to reduce cable clutter and streamline your workspace.

These additional features can significantly enhance the usability, comfort, and customization of your mechanical keyboard, making it a valuable tool for both work and play.

Conclusion

Choosing the right mechanical keyboard depends on your unique needs and preferences, whether for gaming, typing, or general productivity. With various switch types, layouts, and additional features like ergonomic designs and customizable lighting, there's a mechanical keyboard tailored to enhance your comfort and performance. By considering factors like switch feedback, keyboard layout, and durability, you can find a keyboard that aligns with your workflow and typing style, ensuring an enjoyable and productive experience.

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