
This is the piece that attaches and clips to the PCB.Ī tiny metal or gold piece where the electricity flows. This is where the upper housing is mounted. It also guides the switch to slide back to its original position. The resistance of the coil spring determines the amount of pressure needed to actuate the key. It is also the part that the keycap hits when you press the key. It creates the keystroke feel and determines the switch type.

The shape of the stem varies the actuation and travel distance of the switch. The keycap isn’t part of the mechanical switch but it is partially responsible for the noise generated when the key is bottomed out. Let’s take a deeper look at the components of a mechanical switch and learn their importance one by one. They determine the activation of a keystroke. Mechanical switches are the mechanisms underneath each key. In-depth mechanical switches comparison guide.4 key factors to consider when choosing your mechanical switches.Understanding the characteristics of a switch.Types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky.If you don’t know the answer to any of these questions, don’t worry! This guide is here to help! Table of contents Will you be using them mainly for gaming or typing?.

