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Vintage Mechanical Keyboard Switch: An In-Depth Review (Part 1)
Mechanical keyboards have been a staple in computing for decades, providing superior typing feel and durability compared to their rubber dome and scissor switch counterparts. The heart of these tactile wonders resides in their switches, with the vintage mechanical keyboard switches holding a special place of reverence among keyboard enthusiasts.
Mechanical Switch Basics
A fundamental understanding of mechanical switches is critical to appreciate the appeal of vintage types. Essentially, a switch is a physical device, which when pressed, completes an electrical circuit to send a signal to your computer – translating into the characters you see on screen. Mechanical switches come in three primary categories; linear, tactile, and clicky, distinguished by the feedback they provide during a keystroke.
Why Vintage Switches?
One may wonder the appeal of vintage mechanical keyboard switches when newer, arguably improved versions exist. Vintage switches, made by brands like Cherry, Alps, IBM, and more, come from an era where computers were a luxury, and keyboards were less compromised by cost-cutting measures. The resultant switches were robust, offered unique tactile experiences and were built to last.
Cherry MX Switches
Introduced in 1983, Cherry MX switches were designed for longevity, rated for over 50 million keystrokes. They featured a cross-shaped stem compatible with a wide variety of keycaps, allowing users to customize their keyboards.
Cherry MX Black and Red switches are linear types, with Blacks requiring more force to actuate. Blues, the clicky variant, are renowned for their delightful ‘click-clack’ audio feedback, ideal for typists but potentially grating for colleagues or roommates. Browns offer a moderate tactile bump with less noise.
Alps Switches
Another venerable name in mechanical keyboard history is Alps, although they ceased manufacturing in the late ’90s. Renowned for their high tactility, they are beloved by keyboard purists.
Alps switches come in several variants, with their complexity making them quite fascinating. Cream Damped switches have a dampening rubber reducing the noise although being tactile. White Alps are clicky, comparable to Cherry MX Blues, while Orange Alps are tactile.
IBM’s Buckling Spring
IBM’s ‘buckling spring’ switches are a distinct category. Released as part of the iconic IBM Model M keyboard, these switches use a spring, which on actuation ‘buckles’ to hit a pivoting hammer, registering a keystroke. Hard to manufacture and noted for their unique tactile and auditory feedback, they’ve attained a cult status among vintage keyboard enthusiasts.
Nostalgic Appeal and Renaissance
Along with the tactile and auditory delights, vintage mechanical keyboard switches carry a nostalgia element, a throwback to the era of classic computing. As such, they’ve been at the heart of a mechanical keyboard renaissance. Hobbyist and enthusiast communities thrive on platforms like Reddit, and keyboard ‘meet ups’ – events where people showcase their keyboards – are more popular than ever.
The vintage mechanical keyboard switch market has been invigorated by retooling efforts, innovations in switch design, and a vibrant aftermarket supporting the repair and restoration of older keyboards.
While that provides an overview, a real appreciation for vintage mechanical keyboard switches comes from experiencing them. Trying one out at a meet-up, or investing in a restored or reproduction keyboard, is a worthwhile venture for anyone interested in a superior typing experience.
Engage with the vibrant online communities, as there is an enormous wealth of knowledge, opinion, and enthusiasm to be shared. In understanding and experiencing these historic artifacts of the computing era, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the interplay between tactile response, audible feedback, and the act of typing.
More detailed analysis of each switch type, its history, characteristics, comparative analysis, and current market trends can be expected in the subsequent parts of this article.
