Luxia Le

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Gaming is a very unique hobby when it comes to technical requirements. Like most other hobbies it can require technically advanced paraphernalia to make the experience more enjoyable for the user. One way that many gamers are improving their gaming experience is to use the right kind of keyboard. When gaming with a console, you have a dedicated controller. However, PC gamers typically use their mouse and keyboard as the controller. Thus, getting computer peripherals that are designed for the tasks necessary in gaming can really improve the experience. Mechanical keyboards are very popular with gamers for their increased durability and responsiveness. However, there are many types of mechanical keyboard switches. Let’s look at the best types for gaming.

Linear Switches Are Best for Gaming

The best types of mechanical keyboard switches you can buy for gaming are linear ones, like Cherry MX Reds. What distinguishes linear switches from the other types is the lack of haptic feedback from the switch when pressed. Tactile switches have a bump in the chamber that produces a specific feel under the finger when the switch stem goes over it, like a speed bump. Clicky switches have a sleeve inside the chamber that produces an audible “click” when the key is pressed. Linear switches get their name because the chamber is a straight shot with nothing inside it. The progression from unpressed to pressed is linear.

Linear switches are also popular for typing since they have little resistance and have very low actuation forces. This means they are light and easy to press compared to other mechanical switches or a membrane keyboard.

These factors make them excellent for gaming. The light actuation force makes it easy to get your skills off in-game since you only need to lightly tap the keys to get the keypress registered. The straight chamber makes them slightly more responsive than tactile or clicky switches since there is less resistance. The light actuation force also makes it easier to game for long periods since you won’t be straining your hands as much.

Hall Effect Switches

For premium users who play games that rely strongly on twitch reflexes and millisecond-by-millisecond inputs, Hall Effect switches might be worth getting. These switches use Hall Effect sensors to improve the input speed and responsiveness of the keyboard, which can be helpful for high-level players in gaining a statistical edge over their opponents.