Viper Gaming Keyboards1

While the gaming experience on this keyboard is great, it falls short when it comes to typing. The keys are extremely sensitive with a short actuation distance of 1.2mm, making it difficult to type without making mistakes. If you plan on using it for work or typing-intensive tasks, I would recommend looking for another option.

Cherry MX switches are often considered the industry standard, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are the best. The activation point, which is the distance the key needs to travel for the keyboard to register the keypress, plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience.

If you are looking for more customization options in a 60% keyboard, the Ducky One 2 Mini and the Anne Pro 2 are popular choices among fans. These keyboards offer arrow key functionality by lightly pressing the Windows, Fn, Ctrl, and Shift keys. The plastic keycaps on these keyboards are also effective at resisting fingerprint smudges.

While MSI has included a premium top plate in this keyboard, they have cut corners when it comes to the cable. The rubber cable lacks reinforcement for durability. However, at a price of just $80, this keyboard offers a premium typing experience and is reasonably priced.

Hexgears took a unique approach by using a Blue-style switch only under the spacebar. This decision was made to provide a stiffer feel for the largest key on the keyboard. Although it initially seemed odd, many users found the added resistance beneficial. As a result, typing on the Impulse keyboard was more enjoyable than on the Viper V765, which has White switches under every key, including the spacebar.

Kailh switches were initially seen as mere imitations of Cherry MX switches. However, in 2009, Kaihua Electronics started producing Kailh switches that became direct competitors to Cherry MX switches. Cherry made adjustments to their switches in response to customer complaints about the "scratchy" feel, aiming to provide a smoother typing experience. Kailh switches are suitable for users who prefer a heavy or superheavy actuation force, as well as those who require a shorter stem for their typing style.

O-rings can be used to reduce the keycap travel distance and minimize bottoming out, where the keycap hits the upper housing of the switch. A common thickness for O-rings is 0.4mm, which provides an equivalent reduction in key travel distance.

When considering Gateron switches for our Dygma Raise keyboard, we visited their factory in China. However, we were not impressed with our experience, so we decided to stick with Cherry MX and Kailh switches. We have not ruled out the possibility of using Gateron switches in the future if there is enough demand.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro offers the unique feature of adjustable actuation levels for its mechanical switches. If you're interested in trying out optical mechanical switches, the Razer Huntsman offers great value. These specialized gaming keypads feature 32 programmable keys that are ergonomically designed to fit your hand perfectly, providing ultimate control.

While auditory feedback can be important in an office setting, it's worth noting that Clicky switches generate a loud and high-pitched "click" sound. This can affect your overall recognition and may not be suitable for every environment.