Buzz
This article explores the distinctions between optical and mechanical switches. Which keyboard switch is better for gaming?
Mechanical keyboard switches have been a favored choice for a long time, offering speed, durability, and the responsiveness that gamers require. However, as optical switches become more widespread, the question arises: which one is better for gaming?
This article examines the differences between optical and mechanical switches. Which keyboard switch is superior for gaming?
How do mechanical and optical switches operate?
Mechanical switches operate by establishing contact between a metal piece at the bottom of the key and a component on the keyboard. This action completes the circuit and sends a signal to the PC indicating that the key has been pressed.
There exist three primary types of mechanical switches: Linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches are smoother, require less force, and offer no tactile feedback upon actuation. Tactile switches are slightly bumpier and emit a sound upon actuation. Conversely, clicky switches produce a more pronounced tactile bump and a loud 'click' sound with each keystroke, albeit providing a comfortable feel.
In contrast, optical switches employ a process known as light sensing. When a key is pressed, the stem (the part typically struck by the user) interrupts an infrared light beam. Subsequently, an infrared sensor detects the absence of light and signals to the computer that the key has been pressed.
From a mechanical standpoint, both types of switches are quite similar. For instance, when you press a keycap, it pushes down the stem, after which a spring pushes the cap back to its original position. Additionally, optical switches may exhibit similar characteristics to mechanical switches.
Comparing Optical and Mechanical Switches
There are several crucial aspects of mechanical switches to consider when determining which type is superior for gaming. These include:
Durability: How many presses can the keys withstand?
Speed: How fast can you activate the keys?
Comfort: How comfortable are the key presses?
Noise Level: What is the noise level of the keys?
Durability
The average lifespan of mechanical or optical keys largely depends on the manufacturer. However, most optical switches currently on the market have a lifespan of about 100 million key presses.
Most mechanical keyboard brands claim their keys have a lifespan of about 50 to 60 million key presses - half that of optical switches.
However, remember that 50 million key presses equates to about 10 to 15 years of high-intensity gaming or typing, which should suffice for most people.
Keystroke Speed
The speed of switches depends on several factors, including the force required to activate them and the distance the key must travel to activate.
Mechanical switches also have a latency of about 5/1000 of a second. In contrast, optical switches are completely free from this latency. This means that optical switches generally have a faster response time of about 5ms. However, it remains unclear whether this slight increase in speed actually translates to better performance in gaming.
Moreover, the response speed of optical switches seems largely dependent on the manufacturer. Razer Optical Purple switches are considered the fastest on the market, outperforming Cherry MX switches by about 30ms.
Sensation and Noise
The feel of mechanical or optical keys largely depends on preferences, which also affects the noise they produce. However, with more options available, you're likely to find a mechanical keyboard that suits your preferences.
When it comes to mechanical switches, you have the choice between linear, tactile, and clicky switches. This means you can opt for keys that offer satisfying, smooth, fast, or any average feel.
Optical keyboards don't offer as many options. You can comfortably enjoy the keys available on optical keyboards, but many others may not be as fortunate.
However, this is beginning to change, and many manufacturers are offering at least some alternative options.
Razer Huntsman offers Razer Optical Reds (a linear option) and Razer Optical Purples (a clicky alternative). Gateron also has several options, including Gateron Optical Black, Blue, Brown, and Red, each option with similar characteristics to their mechanical counterparts.
Pricing and Availability
With dozens of manufacturers and types of mechanical keyboards available, you can find what you like quite easily. You can also easily modify most mechanical keyboards to make them larger, smoother, faster, or extend their lifespan.
Unfortunately, there aren't many options with optical keyboards, although the situation has been changing in recent years. Optical keyboards are also less standardized, meaning fewer modifications and custom keyboard sets are available.
Ultimately, mechanical switches offer more budget-friendly options, whereas a good optical keyboard typically comes with a keyboard priced from average to high (such as the Razer Huntsman). So, mechanical switches definitely win when it comes to pricing.
So, are mechanical or optical switches better for gaming?
Mechanical switches still hold a certain place in the hearts of gamers. Mechanical keyboards offer more options than optical keyboards. Plus, the fact that optical switches are still relatively new to the market means many people aren't ready to switch to optical keyboards yet.
However, there may be a change in the coming years as more options emerge. For example, the Razer Huntsman series offers the customization, speed, and durability that gamers are looking for in optical keyboards.
