Cable length
The length of the cable that the keyboard is equipped with for wired connection (see "Connection type").
When choosing this parameter, you should first of all take into account the distance from the device to the connection port: a cable that is too short may simply not reach the connector, and a cable that is too long may get confused at hand and create inconvenience. As for specific values, the reference length is 1.8 m. However, there are cables both shorter and longer.
Switches
The model of switches (switches) used in the keyboard - switching mechanisms installed under each individual key. These details are given if the design uses advanced mechanics, positioned as a better option than traditional switches. Mostly gaming keyboards are equipped with such mechanics.
The most popular switch brands in our time are
Cherry MX, considered the "classic of the genre" for high-quality mechanics;
Gateron, practically not inferior to him; not so advanced, but also cheaper
Kailh and
Keychron, as well as ultra-budget
Outemu. For all these brands, different types of switches have a different stem color, which can be used to determine the features of the keyboard. It is also worth saying that modern mechanical switches are divided into three main varieties:
linear,
tactile and
clicky.
- Linear. Such solutions are closest to conventional membrane keyboards: the key travel is uniform along the entire length, with minimal resistance and the absence of a clear actuation point. There is an opinion that the linear "mechanics" is best suited for games where you have to deal with fast and frequent clicks; however, in practice, this moment largely depends on the personal tastes of th
...e user, nothing prevents the use of such keyboards for working with texts.
- Tactile. Switches with a clearly defined actuation point - a kind of barrier to the path of the key. Such a "barrier" allows you to clearly determine by touch whether the key has worked or not. Tactile keyboards are valued primarily by tech who have to type large volumes of texts.
- Tactile-auditory (Clicky). In such switches, the actuation point is felt not only by touch, but also by ear: the actuation of the key is accompanied by a clearly audible click, which is often compared to the sound of the keys of a typewriter. Due to this, this option is also very popular among users dealing with texts. Some people consider switches of this type not very suitable for games, since they are supposedly not very convenient for frequent, fast pressing; however, a quality Clicky switch is as good as a linear switch in this regard, and the choice depends solely on personal preference. But the unequivocal disadvantages of such keyboards include a rather loud click sound, which in some situations may be superfluous.
As for specific colors, here are their features:
- Red (red). Linear type switches with minimum resistance. They are popular, in particular, among professional gamers who deal with dynamic games and try by all means to speed up their reaction to gaming events. On the other hand, a low force increases the likelihood of accidentally pressing an unnecessary button.
— Black. Another type of linear switches. They have a tighter move compared to Red, which, on the one hand, requires a little more effort, on the other hand, minimizes the chance of accidentally pressing the wrong key.
Blue. Switches in clicky format, with tactile feedback and a click.
— Brown. Switches with tactile feedback, but no "click". The Brown action is great for when you want a keyboard with tactile feedback and at the same time you want to avoid unnecessary noise (although the sound is still louder than on a membrane keyboard). In addition, it is considered a good option for tech who are just starting to get acquainted with mechanical keyboards.
— Silver. Linear switches designed for maximum operating speed. They have a very low stroke - about 1 - 1.2 mm - as well as a very small pressing force, which contributes to high speed. At the same time, the use of such a keyboard requires a certain skill, since even a small effort from an accidental touch usually leads to the operation of a key.PBT keycaps
Keys made of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), one of the most durable and long-lasting plastics for keyboards. Unlike ABS keycaps, they are more wear-resistant, do not become glossy over time, and are resistant to mechanical abrasion. The latter is also facilitated by high-quality application of symbols, for example, by double casting (Double Shot) or laser engraving.
PBT keycaps have a rough texture that is pleasant to the touch and provide a clearer and tactile response when typing.
Additional keys
The number of
additional keys provided in the design of the keyboard.
Such keys do not belong to the standard layout and are intended for quick access to specific functions or individual applications — for example, to control the media player or open mail with one click. This function is convenient because commands from additional keys are usually recognized by the system regardless of what is on the screen — thanks to this, for example, you do not have to close the text editor to switch tracks in the player.
Note that in this case we are talking about individual keys that have a strictly defined purpose and corresponding markings. Programmable buttons, the Fn key (see below) and the functions of the main keys implemented through Fn are not taken into account in this paragraph.
Power source
The type of power used in wireless keyboards. It can be a replaceable battery or its own built-in battery.
As replaceable batteries in modern keyboards, batteries or accumulators of the
AA (“finger”) or
AAA (“mini-finger”) format can be used. The main advantage of this power supply is the ability to quickly replace dead batteries with new ones — if there are any left, a few seconds are enough, and the keyboard is ready to work again. However, batteries are often not included and must be purchased separately. In addition, anyway, you have to buy new batteries as the old ones wear out — or fork out for rather expensive batteries and, possibly, a charger.
Built-in battery, in turn, relieves the user of the need to purchase batteries. On the other hand, in the event of a discharge, such a battery cannot be quickly replaced, and the only option to continue working is to charge it, which can take quite a long time.
Battery capacity
The battery capacity in the keyboard affects the duration of its operation without recharging and determines how often the device will need to be charged. Although manufacturers usually specify the operating time, the capacity helps to assess the battery's resource under intensive use or when activating additional features such as backlighting.
Battery life
Operating time of the keyboard on battery power (see "Power") on a single battery charge.
The operating time in this case is rather approximate: it is specified for an average mode of use, and the actual autonomy may be either less or more than stated, depending on the specifics of use. Nevertheless, it is a fairly reliable indicator that can be used to assess different battery models and compare them with each other: the difference in the stated operating time usually quite corresponds to the difference in actual autonomy.
