Which Optical Switch Should You Get?
Tactile, linear, clicky... what do they all mean?
We have new customization options for optical keyboards. With SteelSeries, you can select the best optical switches for your keyboard. Let's look through the selections.
We've recently introduced new types of optical switches, allowing you to further customize your gaming keyboard. We'll go over the compatible types of optical keyboards and what kind of switches you can acquire to turn them into your dream keyboard.
Optical Keyboard Options
- Apex 9 TKL Optical Keyboard: Custom-built OptiPoint optical switches for 33% faster actuation, zero debounce, and 0.2ms response time, with RGB options, a durable steel-aluminum frame, all in tenkeyless form-factor
- Apex 9 Mini Optical Keyboard: All the benefits of the Apex 9 TKL, but in even sleeker, mini form for a compact profile on your desk
Both keyboards feature fully swappable optical switches that you can change out to any of the options presented below. These should also be compatible with keyboards that use Gateron switches.
Linear OptiPoint Switches
Feel: Smooth, no bump or resistance, like the press of a piano key
Sound Profile: Quiet
Pros: Linear switches are great for those who value speed and fast-paced gaming, due to the lack of a bump or click. Minimal resistance on your fast keypresses with decreased actuation force needed.
Total Travel Distance: 3.2±0.4mm
Actuation Force: 35g
Note: These are the default switches on the Apex 9 TKL and Apex 9 Mini.
