Mechanical keyboards have gained a lot of popularity in recent years. They offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience compared to traditional membrane keyboards. However, one question that often arises is how many switches are on a mechanical keyboard.

To understand how many switches are on a mechanical keyboard, we first need to understand what a mechanical keyboard is and how it works. A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses mechanical switches instead of rubber domes to register key presses. Mechanical switches consist of a metal spring and a stem that moves up and down to register a key press. The stem also has a contact point that registers the press with the circuit board.

There are several types of mechanical switches available, each with their unique feel and sound. The most popular types of switches are Cherry MX switches, which are produced by the German company Cherry. They come in several variants, including red, blue, brown, and black.

Cherry MX Red switches are linear switches that require a force of 45 grams to actuate. They have a smooth feel and are ideal for gaming, as they provide a quick response time.
Cherry MX Blue switches are tactile switches that require a force of 50 grams to actuate. They have a distinct "clicky" sound and feel and are ideal for typing.

What is a Mechanical Keyboard Switch?

A mechanical keyboard switch is a type of switch used in mechanical keyboards that provides a tactile feedback when pressed. Unlike traditional rubber dome switches found in most keyboards, mechanical switches use a mechanical mechanism to register keystrokes.
There are several types of mechanical keyboard switches, each with its own unique characteristics. The most popular types of mechanical switches are Cherry MX, which are available in different colors that indicate the switch's actuation force and tactile feedback. For example, Cherry MX Blue switches require more force to activate, have a tactile bump, and produce an audible click, making them a popular choice among typists who prefer a tactile feedback.

Other popular types of mechanical switches include Kailh, Gateron, and Alps, each with their own unique feel and sound. Mechanical switches are known for their durability, as they can withstand millions of keystrokes before failing. This makes them a popular choice among gamers, writers, and anyone who spends a lot of time typing.

Mechanical keyboards with their switches are generally more expensive than traditional rubber dome keyboards, but many users find the increased durability, tactile feedback, and customizability of mechanical keyboards to be worth the extra cost.

Types of Key Switches

Mechanical keyboards have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their durability, tactile feedback, and customizable options. One of the key features that make mechanical keyboards stand out from other types of keyboards is the use of key switches. Key switches are the components responsible for registering keystrokes when the user presses a key. There are several types of key switches available, and each has its own unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore the different types of key switches commonly used in mechanical keyboards.

Cherry MX

Cherry MX is one of the most popular and widely used key switches in mechanical keyboards. They are known for their durability, tactile feedback, and smooth keystrokes. Cherry MX key switches come in different colors, each with a different actuation force and tactile feedback. The most common colors are blue, brown, red, and black. Blue switches have a tactile bump and a clicky sound, while brown switches have a tactile bump without the clicky sound. Red switches are linear and have no tactile feedback, making them ideal for gaming, while black switches are also linear but require a slightly higher actuation force.

Kailh

A Kailh mechanical keyboard is a type of computer keyboard that uses mechanical switches manufactured by Kailh. These switches are known for their tactile feedback and durability, making them a popular choice among gamers and typists who prefer a more tactile typing experience.

Kailh mechanical switches come in a variety of colors, each with a different tactile and audible feedback. For example, the Kailh Blue switch offers a tactile bump and audible click, while the Kailh Red switch offers a linear feel with no tactile feedback. The Kailh Brown switch offers a tactile bump but no audible click, making it a good choice for office environments where noise may be a concern.
In addition to their tactile feedback, Kailh mechanical switches are also known for their durability. Each switch is rated for a certain number of keystrokes, with some switches rated for up to 100 million keystrokes. This makes them a good choice for users who type or game frequently, as they are less likely to wear out or fail over time.
Kailh mechanical keyboards are available from a variety of manufacturers, and often feature customizable backlighting, programmable keys, and other advanced features. Overall, they offer a high-quality typing experience that is well-suited for both gaming and productivity.

Gateron

A Gateron mechanical keyboard is a type of computer keyboard that uses mechanical switches manufactured by Gateron. These switches are known for their smoothness, tactile feedback, and relatively low price, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts and budget-conscious users alike.

Gateron mechanical switches come in a variety of colors, each with a different tactile and audible feedback. For example, the Gateron Blue switch offers a tactile bump and audible click, while the Gateron Red switch offers a linear feel with no tactile feedback. The Gateron Brown switch offers a tactile bump but no audible click, making it a good choice for office environments where noise may be a concern.
In addition to their tactile feedback, Gateron mechanical switches are also known for their smoothness. The stem of each switch is coated with a lubricant that helps to reduce friction and provide a smoother feel compared to other switches on the market.

Gateron mechanical keyboards are available from a variety of manufacturers, and often feature customizable backlighting, programmable keys, and other advanced features. Despite their relatively low price compared to other mechanical switches, Gateron switches are considered by many to be on par with or even superior to more expensive options in terms of overall quality and feel.