Although this isn’t in the case in fashion, the world of keyboards provides endless options to pair the right fit, style, and comfort for any user. In this article, we’ll briefly cover the topics of the shape and switch design.
The Different Shapes & Style:
Chiclet
The most common for Mac keyboards and popularized by Apple. The name came from the shape of the squarish gum with slightly rounded edges. If your a minimalist, these shapes are most likely your favorite.
Standard
Besides the typewriter, these normal keycaps have been around since the dawn of keyboards. These are mainly used in mechanical or rubber dome keyboards.
Low Profile Mechanical
Mechanical keyboard companies like to decipher between low-profile mechanical vs standard. Low profile keycaps are just shorter versions of the standard keycap.
Rounded or “Type Writer”
Think perfect circles. Although it was the OG cap for typewriters, today’s keyboards with this keycap are more known in artsy circles that focus on style.
Indented
Indented style keycaps come in a square (like the chiclet) or rounded (like a typewriter) but have an obvious indentation. This is to ergonomically fit the fingertip.
Different Types Of Keyboard Switches:
Scissor Key or “Laptop Style”
This is your standard laptop-feeling switch that allows for keycaps to be low to the board for a minimalist-style keyboard.
Mechanical Switches
Very popular among gamers as they can choose the type of actuation force and tactile feel. For example, blue switches are “clicky” whereas the red switches are more linear and meant for repetitive actuation in gaming.
Rubber Dome
These switches have a quieter and mushier feel and are commonly found in cheaper keyboards, since, they don’t require any complex mechanical features to build.
Whatever Floats Your Boat...
Since everyone has their own style and preference, leave a comment below about your favorite keycap/switch.