When you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard, there are a few factors you should consider before making a purchase. These factors include things like the gaming matrix, Macro keys, and N-key rollover.
Cherry MX
Cherry MX mechanical keyboards provide a reliable, durable way to enhance your gaming experience. With a lifespan of 100 million keystrokes, you can enjoy an extra layer of comfort and precision.
Mechanical keyboards feature spring-loaded physical switches under each key. The resistance provided by the spring allows each key to be pressed multiple times and register. It’s this precision that enables the sputter-free keystrokes that Cherry MX mechanical keyboards are known for.
Cherry MX switches have a two-piece key cap structure with a gold-based crosspoint contact system. This design allows light through while providing a great level of reliability and precision.
Cherry MX switches are categorized into three categories: linear, tactile, and low profile. They’re available in both clicky and non-clicky options. These switches are made with a patented noise-damping mechanism.
Gaming matrix
The Matrix MX360 aka the Matrix mechanical keyboard, is a tad pricey, but if you have an eye for quality and a bit of elbow grease you can have some fun with your hard earned cash. It’s not for everyone, but the plethora of enthusiasts and collectors alike will have a whale of a time. One could bet that there is a long line of geeks lined up to get their hands on this gem. You can rest assured the next lucky winner will have a good time. Not only is the keyboard itself a delight, but the customer service is second to none. Considering the Matrix is a company with a cult following, you know your hard earned cash will go to good use.
N-key rollover
N-key rollover is a feature that most mechanical keyboards have. This means that they can register each key press individually, rather than registering the keys all together.
N-key rollover is a great feature for gamers who like to hit multiple keys at once. But it can also be problematic for people who are advanced typists. If a keyboard doesn’t have full n-key rollover, it will often register the wrong keystrokes.
It’s important to understand that there is no maximum number of keys that can be pressed at one time. Some cheaper keyboards have only a three-key rollover, and it’s unlikely that a quality mechanical keyboard will have more than that.
Some high-end keyboards have up to six keys in simultaneous scan mode. However, this isn’t the deciding factor. That’s because the HID report protocol, which is used by many operating systems, doesn’t require any limit on key rollover.
Anti-ghosting
If you are a gamer who is constantly pressing keys on your keyboard, you may be experiencing keyboard ghosting. Ghosting is an issue that can cause missed game-changing moments.
Often, this is caused by overlapping keypresses. To test if your keyboard is having ghosting issues, try holding down several keys at once.
Ghosting is a problem that is experienced in both membrane and mechanical keyboard. Keyboards with anti-ghosting can help prevent this issue. These keyboards also provide faster response time, which is important in fast-paced games.
Some keyboards, however, only address the problem when it relates to a set of common key combinations. Those with 100% anti-ghosting will eliminate these limitations.
In addition, you can avoid ghosting by cleaning your keyboard regularly. This will ensure that all keys are properly registered. Also, remember to turn on NKRO mode when using a keyboard over USB.
Macro keys
Macro keys are a feature that can be found on mechanical keyboards. These keys enable users to perform repetitive tasks with ease. They are particularly useful in games with combos and rapid functions.
The best macros are those that replace frequently used key sequences. Moreover, they are application-specific. Among the examples are the IP address, the website URL, and the greeting.
Some keyboard manufacturers offer their own software for configuring the keyboard. However, third-party apps also work with all types of equipment. You can download and install the software as soon as you connect the device to the computer.
To create a macro, start by choosing the keyboard you want to use. Next, click the Plus icon. Select the Macro key group you want to assign. Click Ok to apply the changes.
