Here at Overclockers UK, we stock a wide range of outstanding Gaming Keyboards. These specialised keyboards offer exceptional performance when gaming, primarily due to their switches having short actuation distances. You can find excellent examples of gaming keyboards in both mem-chancial and full mechanical options. Additionally, there is a wide variety of choice in layouts, sizes, and styles of gaming keyboards available. With so many options present, you’re sure to find a keyboard that perfectly suits your gaming style.
Not all keyboard switches are the same and can vary in a number of key features, offering wildly different experiences with each. When deciding upon a switch, your first consideration should be the type. There are four available options clicky, linear, tactile, and low profile. A linear switch offers smooth and silent operation with no tactile feedback. Tactile switches maintain the silent operation of linear switches, but do offer a tactile response when depressed. Clicky switches are the complete opposite of a linear switch with both tactile and audible feedback when depressed.
In addition to the type, there are several more attributes to take into account when choosing a switch. Firstly, is how much travel the switch needs to make before activating. Secondly, is how much force you’ll need to be apply to move it.
The most common type of switches available are Cherry MX, with many other manufacturers following their naming example for comparable switches. The following table lists the switches available from Cherry:
| Switch Type | Actuation Point | Operating Force | |
|---|---|---|---|
| MX Blue | Clicky | 2.2mm | 60g |
| MX Brown | Tactile | 2mm | 55g |
| MX Red | Linear | 2mm | 45g |
| MX Black | Linear | 2mm | 60g |
| MX Speed Silver | Linear | 1.2mm | 45g |
| MX Silent Red | Linear | 1.9mm | 45g |
| MX Silent Black | Linear | 1.9mm | 60g |
| MX Low Profile Red | Linear | 1.2mm | 45g |
| MX Low Profile Speed | Linear | 1mm | 45g |
| MX Green | Clicky | 2.2mm | 80g |
| MX Clear | Tactile | 2mm | 65g |
| MX Grey | Tactile | 2mm | 80g |
Many gaming keyboards utilise mechanical switches that facilitate exceptional performance. But what exactly is a mechanical switch? Check out our blog, where we explore what mechanical switches are, and what types you’ll be able to find.
Read MoreHere at Overclockers UK, we offer a wide range of gaming keyboards from well-known manufacturers including Glorious, ASUS, Ducky, and Corsair.
Gaming keyboards come in a variety of sizes including full size, TKL, 75%, and 60%.
A gaming keyboard can certainly increase your performance while gaming. This is thanks to their exceptionally short actuation distance which leads to an increase in response time.
If you require a mechanical switch that doesn’t make an audible click when depressed, then you should opt for either a linear or tactile switch.
A gaming keyboard offers the same capabilities as an office keyboard. In fact, you may even find that they perform better. With many gaming keyboards utilising mechanical switches instead of membrane, you could see an increase in typing speed.
