The History of Mechanical Keyboard Switches

The bump and the click-clack of mechanical switches in modern mechanical keyboards are undeniably satisfying. These switches have been around for decades and are far from being relics of the past. In fact, they are experiencing a resurgence in popularity for good reason.

With a rich history and a wide range of types, traditional mechanical switches are more than just gadgets. They provide a different and unique gaming and typing experience. 

Let's explore the fascinating history of mechanical switches and understand why they continue to captivate enthusiasts.

What Are Mechanical Keyboard Switches

When you type on a mechanical keyboard, you're greeted with a sensory overload from tactile bumps to clicking sounds. Those are generated by the mechanical switches under the keys. Mechanical switches are the individual switch units beneath each keycap that register key presses. These switches use a physical mechanism for actuation, as opposed to the rubber dome switches commonly found in membrane keyboards.

The basic structure of a mechanical switch consists of several moving parts, including a hard plastic "stem" containing two metal contacts and a set of springs. When a key is pressed, the stem pushes the contacts together, completing an electrical circuit and sending a signal to the computer. The switch then resets when the key is released, ready for the next press.

Evolution of Mechanical Switches

The history of mechanical switches can be traced back to the invention of the typewriter, which revolutionized written communication in the 19th century. 

1. Invention of the Typewriter (1868): The first commercially successful typewriter, the Sholes and Glidden typewriter, was invented by Christopher Latham Sholes, Samuel Soule, and Carlos Glidden in 1868. This early typewriter featured a mechanism where pressing a key caused a typebar with a corresponding letter to strike an inked ribbon, transferring the letter onto paper. The keys had a mechanical switch-like mechanism to register each keypress.
2. Introduction of the Shift Key (1878): The Remington No. 2, introduced in 1878, was the first typewriter to include a shift key. This innovation allowed for uppercase and lowercase characters, effectively doubling the number of characters that could be typed. The shift key incorporated a mechanical switch to toggle between the two cases.
3. Development of the QWERTY Layout (1870s): The QWERTY keyboard layout, designed to prevent typewriter jams by separating frequently used letter pairs, became widely adopted. This layout influenced the arrangement of mechanical switches beneath the keys, shaping the early design principles of typewriter keyboards.
4. Introduction of Electric Typewriters (1920s-1930s): The 20th century saw the advent of electric typewriters, which replaced some of the purely mechanical components with electrical systems. However, the key switches continued to be mechanical in nature, incorporating mechanisms for actuation and registration of keypresses.
5. Cherry MX Switches (1980s): The true evolution of mechanical switches for keyboards as we know them today started in the 1980s with the development of the Cherry MX switch by Cherry Corporation. These switches featured a distinct design with a spring over a cross-shaped stem and two metal contacts. The different variations, identified by color, offered varying actuation forces and tactile feedback.
6. IBM Model M (1984): IBM's Model M keyboard, introduced in 1984, utilized a buckling spring mechanism. While not a Cherry MX switch, it played a significant role in the evolution of mechanical switches; it provided a tactile and audible response that appealed to many users. Technically, this is considered to be the first mechanical keyboard.
7. Diversification of Mechanical Switches (1990s-Present): In the 1990s and beyond, other manufacturers started developing their own mechanical switches, introducing innovations such as Alps switches, Topre switches, and proprietary switches from companies like Razer and Logitech. This era saw a diversification of switch designs, each catering to specific preferences in terms of actuation force, tactile feedback, and noise levels.

Why Mechanical Switches Are Popular

Mechanical keyboard switches continue to be popular among users. Mechanical switches have gained immense popularity for several reasons, making them a preferred choice for many users, gamers, and typing enthusiasts. Why? Well, let's check out some reasons.

1. Tactile Feedback: Mechanical switches provide tactile feedback, meaning users can feel a noticeable bump or resistance when a key is actuated. This feedback enhances typing accuracy and gives users a more satisfying and responsive feel compared to membrane or rubber dome switches.
2. Durability: Mechanical switches are known for their durability and longevity. Most mechanical switches are rated for tens of millions of keystrokes, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to traditional membrane switches. This durability is particularly appealing to users who want a reliable and long-lasting keyboard.
3. Customization: Mechanical keyboards often offer a high degree of customization. Users can choose from various types of mechanical switches, each with its unique feel, actuation force, and tactile feedback. This level of customization allows individuals to tailor their keyboard to their specific preferences and typing style.
4. Typing Experience: The distinct feel and audible click of mechanical switches contribute to a more enjoyable and engaging typing experience. This is especially appreciated by individuals who spend extended periods typing, such as writers, programmers, and professionals who value the tactile sensation of each keypress.
5. Gaming Performance: Mechanical switches are popular among gamers due to their responsiveness and the tactile feedback they provide. The quick actuation and reset of the switches make them well-suited for gaming, where rapid and precise key presses can make a significant difference in performance.
6. Variety of Switch Types: There is a wide variety of mechanical switch types available, each catering to different preferences. Whether users prefer linear switches without tactile feedback, tactile switches with a noticeable bump, or clicky switches with an audible click sound, there is a mechanical switch for almost every preference.
7. N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting: Mechanical keyboards often feature advanced functionality like N-key rollover and anti-ghosting. N-key rollover allows users to press multiple keys simultaneously without losing any keypresses, while anti-ghosting prevents false keypresses when multiple keys are pressed at once. These features are particularly beneficial for gamers and fast typists.
8. Build Quality and Premium Materials: Mechanical keyboards are often built with high-quality materials, contributing to a more premium look and feel. Keycaps are commonly made of durable materials like double-shot ABS or PBT plastic, enhancing the overall build quality of the keyboard.
9. Community and Enthusiast Culture: The rise of the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community has contributed to the popularity of mechanical switches. Enthusiasts appreciate the technical aspects of different switch designs, and this culture has led to the development of custom and boutique switches, further diversifying the options available to users.

Types of Mechanical Switches

Different types of switches offer unique characteristics and advantages. Each offers a unique combination of characteristics such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and noise level. 

1. Linear Switches: These switches have a smooth and linear keystroke without tactile bumps or audible clicks. They are popular among gamers for rapid keypresses.
2. Tactile Switches: These switches provide a tactile bump during actuation. Users can feel when the keypress is registered without an audible click. They are a good compromise for both typing and gaming.
3. Clicky Switches: Similar to Cherry MX Blue but with a higher actuation force, providing a heavier and more resistant keystroke.
4. Specialized Switches: These switches have a shorter actuation distance, making them ideal for rapid keypresses and gaming.
5. Topre Switches: Combining mechanical and capacitive technologies, Topre switches offer a unique feel with a soft tactile bump. They are known for a smooth and consistent typing experience.
6. Low-Profile Switches: Designed for slim and compact keyboards, these low-profile switches offer a shorter actuation distance.
7. Hot-Swappable Switches: Hot-swappable switches allow users to change or replace switches without soldering. This feature simplifies customization and maintenance, enabling users to experiment with different switch types without the need for advanced technical skills.

Advancements in Key Switch Technology

The development of mechanical switches hasn't stopped at just offering different tactile experiences; it has also seen significant improvements in key switch technology over time. These innovations have resulted in better performance, durability, and customization options.

Key switch technology has seen continuous advancements over the years, driven by a desire to improve performance, durability, and user experience. Here are some notable advancements in key switch technology:

1. Hall Effect Switches: Hall effect switches use magnets to detect the presence of a keypress. These switches are known for their durability as they lack physical contact points that can wear out over time. 
2. Optical Switches: Optical switches use infrared light beams to register keypresses. This technology eliminates physical contact and debounce delays, resulting in faster response times. Optical switches also tend to be more durable due to the absence of metal contacts that can wear out.
3. Analog Switches: Analog switches can detect a range of input levels, allowing for more nuanced control. 
4. Custom and Boutique Switches: These switches often feature unique materials, designs, and actuation profiles, catering to users with specific preferences and creating a diverse market for high-end and personalized switches.
5. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials: Some manufacturers are focusing on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials in key switches and keyboards. Doing so reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposal.

Conclusion

Mechanical key switches have made significant advancements over time, transforming from simple devices into intricately designed mechanisms. Their popularity stems from their precision, durability, and the satisfying tactile feedback they provide.

Different types of mechanical switches, such as linear, tactile, and clicky switches, cater to the diverse needs of users. Ongoing innovations in key switch technology have further enhanced their user-friendliness.

The history of mechanical switches is a testament to human ingenuity as these once basic concepts have now become essential components of our modern world.