Mechanical keyboards are a favorite among many computer users and gamers due to their superior performance and tactile feedback. Here is a simplified guide to understanding the terminology associated with mechanical keyboards:

• Four Major Switches: CHERRY MX Black, Red, Blue, and Brown. These are the most commonly used MX switches.
• Key Travel: The total distance a key travels from the initial press to the bottom.
• Actuation Force: The amount of force needed to press a switch. Higher values mean a heavier feel.
• Actuation Point: The moment when the internal metal contacts close and the keypress is registered by the computer.
• Tactile Feedback: The change in resistance felt during the keypress.

Four Major Switches

• CHERRY MX Black: Known for its heavy actuation force.
• CHERRY MX Red: Lighter and preferred for rapid keypresses.
• CHERRY MX Blue: Provides a tactile bump and audible click.
• CHERRY MX Brown: Offers a balance between tactile feedback and quiet operation.

Key Travel

• Describes the distance a key travels from its initial press to the bottom.

Actuation Force

• The force required to press a switch. Higher values mean a heavier feel.

Actuation Point

• The point where the internal metal contacts close and the keypress is registered by the computer.

Tactile Feedback

• The change in resistance felt during the keypress.

• Front-Printed: Characters are printed on the front face of the keycap.
• Side-Printed: Characters are printed on the side of the keycap.
• Infill Engraving: Characters are etched into the keycap and filled with the same color, blending with the keycap for a seamless look.
• Blank Keycaps: Keycaps without any characters, offering a sleek appearance.
• Laser Etched: Characters are burned onto the keycap surface using a laser.
• Dye-Sublimation: High temperature bonds solid ink into the keycap, making it highly resistant to wear.
• Double-Shot Molding: Two different colored plastics are molded together, making the characters durable and wear-resistant.
• PBT vs. ABS Keycaps: PBT keycaps are more durable and have higher hardness, while ABS keycaps feel smooth but tend to get shiny with use.

• Detachable Cable: The keyboard cable can be disconnected, making it easier to store and transport.
• Layout: Refers to the arrangement of keys, such as full-size (100%), tenkeyless (80%), or compact (60%).
• Non-Rigid Plate: The switches are directly soldered to the PCB without a solid metal plate.
• 5-Pin vs. 3-Pin Switches: 5-pin switches are used for keyboards without a metal plate, while 3-pin switches require a metal plate for stability.
• LED Placement: Indicates whether the backlight LEDs are positioned above or below the switch.
• Hot-Swappable: Switches can be replaced without soldering.
• Enthusiast: Someone highly passionate about a hobby, often investing heavily in it.
• Anti-Ghosting: Allows multiple keys to be pressed simultaneously without any keypresses being ignored.

• C Switch, G Switch, BOX Switch: Represent switches from Cherry, Gateron, and Kaihua BOX respectively.
• OEM vs. Original Keycaps: Different standards for keycap heights.
• DCS, XDA, DSA, SA, KAT Keycap Heights: Various types of keycap height profiles.
• GMK, SP, JTK Keycap Manufacturers: Companies known for making keycaps of different styles and heights.
• Dual-Mode Keyboards: Keyboards supporting both wired and wireless (Bluetooth/2.4G) connections.
• Hot-Swappable Keyboards: Keyboards with switches that can be easily switched out for customization.

By understanding these terms, you can make a more informed decision when choosing a mechanical keyboard that suits your needs and preferences.