What switch do you type fastest on?

[jcoffin1981]

I want to know if there is a correlation between switch weight and feedback or lack of feedback to typing speed.  I wanted to do this in the  format of a poll, but I don't think I have the privileges to do so.  I will therefore state some criteria.  Please reply if you touch-type 65 wpm or faster and use a mechanical switch including Topre.  Sorry rubber dome and scissor-switch lovers. 

I thought 65 wpm was a good starting point to be considered for "fast." It's certainly above average, except for maybe here.  Please state the type of switch that you use and the WPM.  No need to post an image of the verified number as this will start to get messy.  When you get down to the pure physics of it, with a heavier switch there is simply more work being done to type the same amount of text.  My guess is that nobody is hitting 140 WPM on MX Greens, but maybe, IDK.  I'm guessing Reds and Browns or their equivalents are the fastest, but I don't know.

1. MX Browns
2. 65-70 wpm                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

[lasernasaur]

Mine so far is KBT Browns on a MK Disco (68WPM). I have some Aliaz switches going on a minivan and Gateron Silent Browns going on a mechmini, after I get used to those I will retry. I have not tried any other switches aside from the three i mentioned.

[portbaron]

Interesting idea if we control for the person.

Controlling for the individual (ie, just me) and keycap profile (cherry or the similar Leopold/Topre), it looks like the switch doesn't matter much lol.
I doubt this would be statistically significant with repetition. Mental focus mattered more than anything else. Used https://typing-speed-test.aoeu.eu/

76 WPM: 67g Zealio

75 WPM: Topre 55g
75 WPM: 78g Zealio
75 WPM; Aliaz 70g

74 WPM: Topre 45g
74 WPM: 62g Zealio
74 WPM: MX black
74 WPM: MX clear
74 WPM: BOX burnt orange

73 WPM: MX heavy tactile gray
73 WPM: Tealios
73 WPM: BOX white

72 WPM: MX silent red
72 WPM: MX brown

71 WPM: MX green

Maybe people that are over 100 WPM are affected more by the subtleties of the switches, but merely competent typers like me just plod along without reaching their limits. They're about the same for me. I made the most mistakes on MX green and tealios for whatever reason.

[chyros]

My fastest switches are probably Alps SKCM orange.

[DALExSNAIL]

Im not the best typist, maybe 60wpm now, up from 30ish a year ago, but my current fastest is on 45g topre.

Closely followed by MX linears, but no noticeable difference in weightings I've tried.

[tp4tissue]

Tp4 has broken 145 on x220 laptop keeb.

on Ergodox maxxed out @ 145.


laptop keeb / short travel keebs are easier to time vs long travel keebs.

[Sup]

Topre 55g 104 wpm max.
gateron yellow switches 103 wpm max.
Cherry MX silent 60g 100 wpm max.

So yeah lighter switches are better for me .

[SpAmRaY]

All of them.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Aerizu]

For me, I type faster with slightly heavier springs because the feedback seems natural to me.

Using lubed Hako Clear (I think these are 75gf springs), I type around 110wpm on average.
But if I use something lighter, for example Gateron Reds, my wpm drops around 80-90wpm.

[Nuji]

Lubed MX Reds, Cherry Profile 120 WPM

[Altis]

Definitely most precise on 45g Topre -- rarely make typos. As a result, can type at highest speed.

I'm nearly as quick on a Apple aluminum keyboard (previous gen) as they are short and very snappy.

[jlee755]

Light tactiles feel the easiest to type on (62g ergo clear, cherry brown,cherry blue) but it feels a little sloppier than I'd like. Heavy tactiles (cherry clear, box navy) are also on par with typing speed for me personally, but I noticed I occasionally missed key presses due to my finger just not feeling like actuating the heavier switch. Medium tactiles are a good mix of the two I suppose (67g zealios, 68g outemu ergo clear, box royal) with errors from both extremes coming into play rarely.

I can't do light linears (cherry red); they frustrate the hell out of me. I would like to try a heavier cherry black to see if I can type faster but light linears just don't feel that intuitive for me.

I'd love to try more switches to consolidate my preferences though!

[Aran.E99]

I modded and lubed up an ALPS SKCM black board and I type the fastest on that. I've had a load of keyboards before but for some reason I can't type faster on anything else. Anything lighter generally causes me to make mistakes because I'm used to slamming down on the keyboard. I am still yet to own any of the rarer ALPS switches so as of now blacks take 1st place for speed.

[oumakavoula]

I type the fastest on my god-awful laptop keyboard at around 105 WPM.
I max at around 100 WPM on gat yellows because I type faster but make way more mistake.

[Giorgio]

Very fast on cherry mx red and on apple a1203 membrane keyboard

Very slow on topre novatouch.

[jcoffin1981]

So many I want to try, but I live in the sticks now so there are definitely no meetups here.  Do I need special privileges for the classifieds?  I'd like to do a swap and try a light linear (MX Red, Gateron Clear, etc).  I simply do not want and cannot invest any money right now. 

[Karaso]

Clicky switch is worst for me. I'm used to type linears, almost cherry black.

[josephchoi]

It should be Reds for me.
However, I have more typos on reds.
So far I find that ergo clears (62g) yield the highest wpm in my case(~108).

[saint emerald]

55g Topre.
I get about 80wpm on it, compared to 78 on lubed Zealio 64g alongside lubed Box Royals and Jades and 76 on MX Cherry Blue and Green. 
In other words, I type better on medium-low weight switches. Good question, though. 

[Lansky]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

[Giorgio]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

I would like to see how do you perform on reds. My idea is that you don't like tactile switches like brown and clear, and that this has nothing to do with spring stiffness.

[Chevy_Monsenhor]

Linears, specially MX Reds

[rxc92]

Clears (since I'm used to em) 100% 
Topre silenced 95% 
Blues 90% 
Haven't tried much else! I was terrible with Greens though.

[Lansky]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

I would like to see how do you perform on reds. My idea is that you don't like tactile switches like brown and clear, and that this has nothing to do with spring stiffness.

I have previously owned boards with reds and blacks but ended up selling them. In general I've always swayed towards tactile switches. That's one of the issues with browns, they basically feel like linear switches to me because the tactile bump is almost non-existent. But in theory I could be faster on a quality linear switch, I just never kept a board with linears around for long enough to actually know.

[ArchDill]

My best WPM has been on thin lubed Tealios. One of the best typing experiences IMO.

[jcoffin1981]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

I would like to see how do you perform on reds. My idea is that you don't like tactile switches like brown and clear, and that this has nothing to do with spring stiffness.

Well, my original inquiry is related to spring heaviness and I wanted to know if we could see a correlation between this and typing speed.  However, yes as of late I do feel that I am  leaning towards linears as the bump seems to get in the way. However, tactile is all I know.  These are two separate ideas. Maybe you saw me say this in a different post.  I am also  trying to decide on a spring weight for my planned linear switch.  I am worried that reds would feel too light.

[Giorgio]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

I would like to see how do you perform on reds. My idea is that you don't like tactile switches like brown and clear, and that this has nothing to do with spring stiffness.

Well, my original inquiry is related to spring heaviness and I wanted to know if we could see a correlation between this and typing speed.  However, yes as of late I do feel that I am  leaning towards linears as the bump seems to get in the way. However, tactile is all I know.  These are two separate ideas. Maybe you saw me say this in a different post.  I am also  trying to decide on a spring weight for my planned linear switch.  I am worried that reds would feel too light.

I never experience accidental keypresses with reds, and they're very comfortable. Anyway if you are worried that they're too light, you can choose the silent red version or even simpler, you put on the standard reds the GMK silent clips, this make them heavier.

[jakeface1]

Pingmaster - Alps SKCC green.

[Erikdayo]

I type faster on laptop keyboards and MX Red variations, but I prefer Topre for the feel and sound. Heh.

[rich1051414]

I type fastest on tactile switches. I type most confidently on clicky switches, but a bit slower than tactile. On linears, I lose too much typing confidence and slow down.

Out of tactile switches, I tend to type fastest on the lighter variants of alps switches, like oranges. I am also pretty fast on cherry brown switches, but I don't actually like how they feel. I think there is a reason world records have been broke with cherry brown switches.

Out of clicky switches, I am probably fastest on cherry blues. Alps white after that. Although I like the feel of alps switches far more.

In this, I don't think 'speed' is of upmost importance, however, maybe it is, for you.

Edit: Actually, I would put SMK Second Gen in front of alps white as far as speed is concerned.

[jcoffin1981]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

I would like to see how do you perform on reds. My idea is that you don't like tactile switches like brown and clear, and that this has nothing to do with spring stiffness.

Well, my original inquiry is related to spring heaviness and I wanted to know if we could see a correlation between this and typing speed.  However, yes as of late I do feel that I am  leaning towards linears as the bump seems to get in the way. However, tactile is all I know.  These are two separate ideas. Maybe you saw me say this in a different post.  I am also  trying to decide on a spring weight for my planned linear switch.  I am worried that reds would feel too light.

I never experience accidental keypresses with reds, and they're very comfortable. Anyway if you are worried that they're too light, you can choose the silent red version or even simpler, you put on the standard reds the GMK silent clips, this make them heavier.

How do the silencing clips affect the feel of the switch weight?  I've decided to use a V60 which is unusable with a bad batch of Gateron Browns and replace them with linear. I'm looking at mx reds, silent reds, Outemu, and kaihl. Would love to try Gateron yellows, but had a bad experience with crappy switches so I'm staying away. I've also noticed mx reds have a higher activation point which is a bonus.

I've seen out of box boards on amazon which cost the same as the switches so I wonder if that may be a simpler option, especially if I don't like the switches after all.

[Giorgio]

Topre 45/55g: 110-120 WPM - maybe in slight favor of 55g

BKE Heavy: 100-115 WPM - about as fast 45/55g, but less consistent, more mistakes

MX Clear: 100-105 WPM - fine for shorter typing sessions but for some reason I find them a lot more fatiguing to type on than BKE heavies

MX Brown: 95-105 WPM - again, I can type relatively fast on them, but the lack of tactility combined with the lightness of the switch seem to make me more prone to errors

I get around 110 WPM on my Lenovo laptop keyboard.

I would like to see how do you perform on reds. My idea is that you don't like tactile switches like brown and clear, and that this has nothing to do with spring stiffness.

Well, my original inquiry is related to spring heaviness and I wanted to know if we could see a correlation between this and typing speed.  However, yes as of late I do feel that I am  leaning towards linears as the bump seems to get in the way. However, tactile is all I know.  These are two separate ideas. Maybe you saw me say this in a different post.  I am also  trying to decide on a spring weight for my planned linear switch.  I am worried that reds would feel too light.

I never experience accidental keypresses with reds, and they're very comfortable. Anyway if you are worried that they're too light, you can choose the silent red version or even simpler, you put on the standard reds the GMK silent clips, this make them heavier.

How do the silencing clips affect the feel of the switch weight? 

It makes them midway between reds and blacks. I'll test them soon with some measurement device.

[Chewie B]

What program or online site does everyone use to test their typing speed with? My typing speed can vary pretty considerably especially if there's a lot of unexpected or rarely used characters in the test material or if the test material contains a lot of unexpected proper nouns mid sentence requiring capitalization. I can't think of a single instance of using ! in any work or school material over the past 2 years yet lots of tests contain 5-7 sentences ending with a ! or containing some other kind of minimally used punctuation marker or symbol.

I haven't really found a good typing test with a corpus that's actually close to real world work/school typing conditions in terms of frequency of occurrence of more advanced vocabulary, punctuation, etc. versus random passages out of a James Joyce novel or some dated historical document.

[rich1051414]

 https://typing-speed-test.aoeu.eu/ is good.

I have a 410 CPM on SMK second gen switches, good enough for me.

You'll need to test your various boards, but remember, it has more to do with focus and getting in the zone, so be aware of that.

[rxc92]

What program or online site does everyone use to test their typing speed with? My typing speed can vary pretty considerably especially if there's a lot of unexpected or rarely used characters in the test material or if the test material contains a lot of unexpected proper nouns mid sentence requiring capitalization. I can't think of a single instance of using ! in any work or school material over the past 2 years yet lots of tests contain 5-7 sentences ending with a ! or containing some other kind of minimally used punctuation marker or symbol.

I haven't really found a good typing test with a corpus that's actually close to real world work/school typing conditions in terms of frequency of occurrence of more advanced vocabulary, punctuation, etc. versus random passages out of a James Joyce novel or some dated historical document.

 
 
Just use something like 10fastfingers, they only use the top 200 words for each language. While it's not representative generally of real-world typing speed (not accurate), everyone on average gets words of the same difficulty and comparable scores (quite precise). There was another site called typist.hu or something a while back, but I think it's offline now.

[killyou]

Although I cannot provide any numbers the fastest switches for me currently are Zealio 67g. I have a batch of 65g Zealios comming so that might be a subject to change. In my case Zealio 67g beat Zealio 78, Cherry MX Clear, Cherry MX Blue, Gateron Silent Black. I don't have a direct comparison to Cherry MX Brown but I was making a lot of mistakes but it would be nice to see how are they after I would adapt in couple of weeks.

[Ruskie]

Between my boards, I actually type fastest on either my Mech27 with Vintage Blacks, or my Iris with Kailh low profile. On the mech27, I hit about 120-125, and on the iris, I hit about 116.

[kehlad]

Fastest was 80 WPM on GK64 with Zealios 65g switches.

[czarek]

For me it's almost consistent after I use a keyboard for a while, although I tend to be a tad faster on MX, then Topre and then BS. Below are my speeds on certain switches:

MX Blue: 105-111
MX Brown: 105-108
Topre Variable: 100-105
Buckling Springs (Membrane): 98-106
Topre 45G (HHKB): 96-102
MX Red (or Vintage Blacks with lighter springs as I use those more than stock Reds): 90-100
Buckling Springs (AT F): 85-95

Somehow MX feel super snappy when I type on them. Topre feels kinda slower, but more fluid and smooth, sort of relaxing. BS feel super fun, but give my fingers work out so I don't use them much nowadays. Oh and I do prefer membrane to capacitive BS, mostly because of the layouts and heavyweight space bars, but I also like the sound of Model M more than Model F.

Also I have used all those switches for very long times. I spent a year typing exclusively on variable silenced Realforce, 2 years on Filco with MX Browns, a year of only using Model Ms (full size, spacesavers, Unicomps), at least a year of using Filco with MX Blues and many years switching between switches every couple weeks or months. Currently using Ducky One 2 Skyline with MX Blues and really enjoying it

[Auslander]

Topre 45g
Stock vint MX blacks
SKCC Green

I can do 151 on all of them.

Using Alps SKCM switches i could only get up to around 130 consistently but have since sold all the SKCM boards i had.

[rich1051414]

For me it's almost consistent after I use a keyboard for a while, although I tend to be a tad faster on MX, then Topre and then BS. Below are my speeds on certain switches:

MX Blue: 105-111
MX Brown: 105-108
Topre Variable: 100-105
Buckling Springs (Membrane): 98-106
Topre 45G (HHKB): 96-102
MX Red (or Vintage Blacks with lighter springs as I use those more than stock Reds): 90-100
Buckling Springs (AT F): 85-95

Somehow MX feel super snappy when I type on them. Topre feels kinda slower, but more fluid and smooth, sort of relaxing. BS feel super fun, but give my fingers work out so I don't use them much nowadays. Oh and I do prefer membrane to capacitive BS, mostly because of the layouts and heavyweight space bars, but I also like the sound of Model M more than Model F.

Also I have used all those switches for very long times. I spent a year typing exclusively on variable silenced Realforce, 2 years on Filco with MX Browns, a year of only using Model Ms (full size, spacesavers, Unicomps), at least a year of using Filco with MX Blues and many years switching between switches every couple weeks or months. Currently using Ducky One 2 Skyline with MX Blues and really enjoying it

I feel the same as you about buckling spring. The feel nice to type on and is satisfying, but after a day of it, I am really fatigued.

[DOMBROX]

I type fastest with:
* cherry mx red / cherry mx speed / zealios v2
* gateron reds
* tealios v2 (somehow I didn't hold letters till I bottom out - too much used to light and tactile switches XD )

But tealios are amazing on spacebars. Smoothness and weight is very good for that. I use tealios v2 with zealios v2, while tealios v2 is only on spacebar.

[VimLover]

So many people saying Topre makes me glad inside.

I think switch is less important to my speed than key spacing and layout. I type around 110wpm on an HHKB, which is about 10-120wpm I can do on cherry clears, navy thick clicks, and my MBP chiclet keyboard. But I also have used that board every day for years, wheras the others I use occasionally.

[treeleaf64]

I can do around 135 on my Alps. Have not tried MX brown or topre, so I don't know.

[Sintpinty]

I want to know if there is a correlation between switch weight and feedback or lack of feedback to typing speed.  I wanted to do this in the  format of a poll, but I don't think I have the privileges to do so.  I will therefore state some criteria.  Please reply if you touch-type 65 wpm or faster and use a mechanical switch including Topre.  Sorry rubber dome and scissor-switch lovers. 

I thought 65 wpm was a good starting point to be considered for "fast." It's certainly above average, except for maybe here.  Please state the type of switch that you use and the WPM.  No need to post an image of the verified number as this will start to get messy.  When you get down to the pure physics of it, with a heavier switch there is simply more work being done to type the same amount of text.  My guess is that nobody is hitting 140 WPM on MX Greens, but maybe, IDK.  I'm guessing Reds and Browns or their equivalents are the fastest, but I don't know.

1. MX Browns
2. 65-70 wpm                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

MX Browns i can easily achieve 118 wpm on.

I type fastest on rubber domes with record of 129 wpm shorthand

[NewbieOneKenobi]

I've never achieved more than 100 wpm on any mechanical switch — only on a rubber dome. I tend to top out at 90-something on mechanicals and somewhere in between on scissors.

I suspect I may be going above 100 in short bursts when typing on blues and just not paying attention to speed.

[Sintpinty]

I've never achieved more than 100 wpm on any mechanical switch — only on a rubber dome. I tend to top out at 90-something on mechanicals and somewhere in between on scissors.

I suspect I may be going above 100 in short bursts when typing on blues and just not paying attention to speed.

Ah i see, you have a lot to learn then.

[Sintpinty]

This is proof that i do type 120 wpm:

https://streamable.com/wvb44

[Sintpinty]

WTF i just got 137 wpm on 10fastfingers. My goal has been achieved!

[actualglacier]

I am definitely fastest on MX browns, or any other variant of it. Topre actually slows me down quite a bit so I don't know why they're hailed as the "typist's dream switch" or whatever. They feel nice, sure, but the initial resistance of the domes can be jarring at high speeds, in my opinion.

[rxc92]

I am definitely fastest on MX browns, or any other variant of it. Topre actually slows me down quite a bit so I don't know why they're hailed as "typist's dream switch" or whatever. They feel nice, sure, but the initial resistance of the domes can be jarring at high speeds, in my opinion.

 
 
I type fastest on Topres myself, and haven't had issues typing at above 180 words/min on it. It has to do with what you're used to of course; but for me, it is a dream switch.

[actualglacier]

I am definitely fastest on MX browns, or any other variant of it. Topre actually slows me down quite a bit so I don't know why they're hailed as "typist's dream switch" or whatever. They feel nice, sure, but the initial resistance of the domes can be jarring at high speeds, in my opinion.

 
 
I type fastest on Topres myself, and haven't had issues typing at above 180 words/min on it. It has to do with what you're used to of course; but for me, it is a dream switch.

I can and have hit 180+ on topre myself, too. It just didn't feel as effortless as doing the same thing on MX based switches, for some reason haha.

Funny how much typing technique affects your switch preference.

[NewbieOneKenobi]

180? Wow, guys. Does that require 'just' moving your fingers faster, or is there more to the technique? I've been typing all my life and can't break 100. I've had younger friends hitting 120 without any specific training, and I know a lot of court reporters are around that level, but 180 blows my mind.

[rxc92]

180? Wow, guys. Does that require 'just' moving your fingers faster, or is there more to the technique? I've been typing all my life and can't break 100. I've had younger friends hitting 120 without any specific training, and I know a lot of court reporters are around that level, but 180 blows my mind.

 
 
Court reporters type using chord-based stenography, which creates words from a combination of two-three keypresses on a specialized keyboard. This means that they can produce words at well over 200 words per minute when well trained, but their real typing speed is much lower (which is obviously a good thing, as they type for hours on end). 

[Sintpinty]

180? Wow, guys. Does that require 'just' moving your fingers faster, or is there more to the technique? I've been typing all my life and can't break 100. I've had younger friends hitting 120 without any specific training, and I know a lot of court reporters are around that level, but 180 blows my mind.

Plover is the way to go if you want to get 180 wpm

I am definitely fastest on MX browns, or any other variant of it. Topre actually slows me down quite a bit so I don't know why they're hailed as the "typist's dream switch" or whatever. They feel nice, sure, but the initial resistance of the domes can be jarring at high speeds, in my opinion.

IDK but the pressure of mx reds feels uncomfortable. I want a true linear

[DALExSNAIL]

I am definitely fastest on MX browns, or any other variant of it. Topre actually slows me down quite a bit so I don't know why they're hailed as the "typist's dream switch" or whatever. They feel nice, sure, but the initial resistance of the domes can be jarring at high speeds, in my opinion.

IDK but the pressure of mx reds feels uncomfortable. I want a true linear

The "pressure"?

[treeleaf64]

Seems almost everyone likes MX browns for typing fast, and Topre for typing feel.
Since those are pretty light switches, I don't see myself using those as I would probably make too many mistakes.

[DALExSNAIL]

Seems almost everyone likes MX browns for typing fast, and Topre for typing feel.
Since those are pretty light switches, I don't see myself using those as I would probably make too many mistakes.

Topre being light is a little misleading. With the way the bump is up top the weighting feels heavier than advertised. Plus since it has the top bump to get through, it sort of makes it tougher to accidentally actuate other keys, when compared to MX.

[treeleaf64]

Yeah, probably because you have to go through the bump every time you want to actuate the switch.

[Sintpinty]

Yeah, probably because you have to go through the bump every time you want to actuate the switch.

The bump feels very inconvieient. I hate tactile

[Findecanor]

I haven't measured, but subjectively ... I believe I type faster when the keyboard is more silent --- such as when I'm wearing headphones! Then it doesn't feel like I'm banging things together.

[DALExSNAIL]

Yeah, probably because you have to go through the bump every time you want to actuate the switch.

The bump feels very inconvieient. I hate tactile

So what is the "pressure" in MX reds? And why are they not true linear? Or are you just saying things to up your post count like usual?

[treeleaf64]

Hi glacier, why do you have 74 wpm on your badge? 

[ollir_]

I've kept some records on typing speeds on different switches because I was curious if a switch really made any difference for me.

Some of the boards that I've saved the top typing speeds for haven't had as much use as others so they also have less typing tests typed, which is probably why they don't have as high WPM as those that I've used more often. Typing on any of my boards I've never felt like the switches held me back.

Anyway, here are some results, these were typed in 10ff and don't include many results with other switches (no linear switches are on the list because of this, but I've typed similar speeds with MX blacks and linear 725's) because I've started the book-keeping only relatively recently.

127 WPM - Topre 45g (Leopold FC660C)
126 WPM - Topre variable (Realforce 105)
123 WPM - SKCM white (Acer 6012)
123 WPM - SMK 2nd gen. MX mount (VTech)
119 WPM - SKCM black (Dell AT102W)
119 WPM - Matias clicky (Matias Tactile Pro)

The only keyboard (not switch) that I can't easily go too fast on (> 105WPM) is Apple M0118 because of the strict 2KRO. Don't know if it's the board or converter or what but 2KRO on that board really means 2KRO on ANY combination of keys. If you have two pressed, you can't have third until you release one.
Otherwise I think the SKCM salmons would be up there just like other switches.

[actualglacier]

Hi glacier, why do you have 74 wpm on your badge? 

Because that is how fast I can type! (thai)

[NewbieOneKenobi]

Seems almost everyone likes MX browns for typing fast, and Topre for typing feel.
Since those are pretty light switches, I don't see myself using those as I would probably make too many mistakes.

That's of particular individual interest to me, as I'm a professional translator. On the average brainy/creative project typing comfort is everything. On those days I love tactile switches. However, I also get a lot of a extremely urgent projects where you're supposed to render an accurate and readable translation, but there's no overthinking word choice and sentence structure for the best possible effect — just good is enough, doesn't have to be the best-edited stuff you can produce on your skill level. For the latter kind of projects, which sometimes mean processing 10–15K words per day, feedback is more onerous than helpful. Any typos will be highlighted by the editing software, and you could live without the sensation of switch springs kicking back, which produces a lot of not fatigue as much as a sensation of battered palms and fingers. I'll need to get a linear board to verify my hypothesis that I would be able to type more, faster, with less trauma, during those extremely fast-paced projects, on a linear board. Just can't decide between reds and speeds/silvers. Blacks I know would be too heavy (already tried).

So basically I could use blues for lazier days, browns for tired days, and reds for extreme days.

[treeleaf64]

You could get Gateron Yellow. They are at the midpoint of red and black.

[Kevadu]

Honestly I think I type fastest on buckling springs.  You get the feedback there without any sort of 'bump'.  They're essentially linear until the spring buckles at which point there's a drop but unlike basically every other clicky/tactile switch type there isn't a bump or anything preceding that.  It's like you jump from one linear force curve to a lighter linear force curve.

Of course the Model M is pretty heavy so something like a Model F would probably be better for fast typing.

[Sintpinty]

Yeah, probably because you have to go through the bump every time you want to actuate the switch.

The bump is fine but sometimes its too strong like the devestator ii

Still ahead on my choice.
So what is the "pressure" in MX reds? And why are they not true linear? Or are you just saying things to up your post count like usual?

I don't like the feel of the spring when you slowly press down , i consider any true linear to not have that feel.

"you could get gateron yellow"

yep , i'll consider that

[DALExSNAIL]

Yeah, probably because you have to go through the bump every time you want to actuate the switch.

The bump is fine but sometimes its too strong like the devestator ii

Still ahead on my choice.
So what is the "pressure" in MX reds? And why are they not true linear? Or are you just saying things to up your post count like usual?

I don't like the feel of the spring when you slowly press down , i consider any true linear to not have that feel.

"you could get gateron yellow"

yep , i'll consider that

It's objectively a true linear. It has no tactility. Just because you dont like the weighting, doesn't make it not a linear.

[jacethesaltsculptor]

I type best on Buckling springs, or Cherry Blues, the click is very satisfying to me, and hearing it even faster makes me enjoy it more.

I do believe I type a little faster on Cherry Blues, but I'm certainly more accurate on Buckling Springs, so I'd say that takes it for me.

[Sintpinty]

Yeah, probably because you have to go through the bump every time you want to actuate the switch.

The bump is fine but sometimes its too strong like the devestator ii

Still ahead on my choice.
So what is the "pressure" in MX reds? And why are they not true linear? Or are you just saying things to up your post count like usual?

I don't like the feel of the spring when you slowly press down , i consider any true linear to not have that feel.

"you could get gateron yellow"

yep , i'll consider that

It's objectively a true linear. It has no tactility. Just because you dont like the weighting, doesn't make it not a linear.

oohh i see

It seems like i am trying so hard just to reach my bizzare goal of 150 wpm... everybody's getting faster but me. I have never won a 10fastfingers competition even once.

[dabeshu]

Light, lubed MX linears

[nathanchere]

My real-wolrld experience and stats from 10fastfingers are entirely contrary to what I expected.

Yes, a **** keyboard slows me down and accuracy drops significantly, but decent boards are all pretty similar for me. I hover around 80-90wpm real-world and around 130wpm test/peak whether it's on 45g Topres, BKE Extremes, MX Silent Reds or T1s. Accuracy is slightly higher with the heavier and more tactile switches but not dramatically so.

[Maledicted]

I've never achieved more than 100 wpm on any mechanical switch — only on a rubber dome. I tend to top out at 90-something on mechanicals and somewhere in between on scissors.

I suspect I may be going above 100 in short bursts when typing on blues and just not paying attention to speed.

Ah i see, you have a lot to learn then.

Maybe that was a joke? Some people just type a lot faster than others might. I have never done a speed test, but I think (and other say) that I type pretty fast. I can't say that I really learned much of anything at all after having initially learning how to properly touch type in middle school, even though I type much faster than I used to then.

I think it just comes down to how much people type, and what sort of typing they may be doing. I played one hell of a lot of Runescape back in the day, and there's no voice chat system on that game. Being an MMO, there was a lot of typing of messages involved, the entire time you're online.

I'm not sure what switches I type fastest on. I would have to start using one of these speed tests some time. I do feel that once I started using Kailh Box thick clicks that my typing speed and accuracy has possibly diminished on other switches, with a lot of the force and time going into slamming the caps into the plate and sort of recoiling from it. It does feel to me like linears of all kinds are slower than other types for me. I have basically always slammed reds into the plate with force, and with blacks I would often not even register a key press because of their weight. That may have changed a bit now, and something more intermediate may work out better. I'm sure it also doesn't help that the only time I actually use linears for more than 15 minutes is when I'm on my gaming rig, which I have used less and less at all lately. I don't normally type on tactiles at all, so that would take some testing and I only have a Cherry MX Brown board in that regard.

I also don't use rubber domes enough to say for sure, but they always seemed relatively fast for me. Laptop scissor switches may be the fastest I have ever typed, but some of that may just be perception.

Before Box Navies, I couldn't bring myself to type on membrane buckling springs at all for more than just light browsing. They were too stiff, and at least one of my Model Ms is very unpredictable (for now). I should revisit that now. Capacitive buckling spring was awkward for me at first, but then I was typing away fairly rapidly on an F AT once I got more accustomed to the layout and switch feel. It must have been very comparable to Cherry MX Blue once I got used to it.

As much as I love blue alps, I can't say that I have typed as fast as I have on say, Cherry MX Blue with them. Maybe not even Cherry MX Red.

So, until/unless I ever compare typing tests, something like this, possibly:

Cheap scissor switches > Box Navy/Jade > Cherry MX Blue/Capacitive BS > Cherry MX Red > Blue Alps> Cherry MX Black

I do think the weighting of Box Navies is throwing a wrench in that though, especially since I haven't actually typed on a lot of those again since having started using them.

[Adieu910]

I only really like tactile switches. I think I can type almost as equally as fast on any keyboard including membrane.

I've been using MX Browns for the past 4 months. Everything else would be a 5 or 10 wpm decrease.

MX Browns - 170 wpm
Kailh Box Browns - 160 wpm

At lower speeds like 130 or 140 on difficult texts, it'd be around the same. In day to day typing, it's probably all the same unless they really bothered me. Obviously, I have better accuracy on mechanical, but I remedy this on short travel laptop keyboards by bottoming out really hard. The problem I have with high profile keycaps is that my fingers get stuck in between the keys sometimes when I type really fast or when I forget that I can't slide—moving my finger horizontally without lifting it after the initial key press for letter combinations like "ed". That probably makes a minute difference.

[Maledicted]

I only really like tactile switches. I think I can type almost as equally as fast on any keyboard including membrane.

I've been using MX Browns for the past 4 months. Everything else would be a 5 or 10 wpm decrease.

MX Browns - 170 wpm
Kailh Box Browns - 160 wpm

At lower speeds like 130 or 140 on difficult texts, it'd be around the same. In day to day typing, it's probably all the same unless they really bothered me. Obviously, I have better accuracy on mechanical, but I remedy this on short travel laptop keyboards by bottoming out really hard. The problem I have with high profile keycaps is that my fingers get stuck in between the keys sometimes when I type really fast or when I forget that I can't slide—moving my finger horizontally without lifting it after the initial key press for letter combinations like "ed". That probably makes a minute difference.

Faster with MX Browns, interesting. I believe in your new member post you said you got rid of the Box Brown board too? Do you prefer the Cherry switches overall?

[OtherBarry1992]

67G Zealeos

[treeleaf64]

Honestly I think I type fastest on buckling springs.  You get the feedback there without any sort of 'bump'.  They're essentially linear until the spring buckles at which point there's a drop but unlike basically every other clicky/tactile switch type there isn't a bump or anything preceding that.  It's like you jump from one linear force curve to a lighter linear force curve.

Of course the Model M is pretty heavy so something like a Model F would probably be better for fast typing.

Really want to get my hands on one of those. N Key rollover, AND excellent keyfeel! I don't even mind getting a F XT as I don't even use arrow keys (I like to scroll, because I think it has finer movement ability) nor do I even touch the numpad, I can touch type numbers.

[Maledicted]

Really want to get my hands on one of those. N Key rollover, AND excellent keyfeel! I don't even mind getting a F XT as I don't even use arrow keys (I like to scroll, because I think it has finer movement ability) nor do I even touch the numpad, I can touch type numbers.

The arrow keys are probably amongst the most normal things about the F XT. The stepped keys, the placement of the modifiers, the vertical enter key (if you're used to ANSI layout). It will be a challenge to type on without looking, even if you use hot glue or something to add bumps to the home keys. I tried at work, for one day. I took it home the same day. Even the F AT takes some acclimation.

[eternalmetal]

I remember back early in my mechanical keyboard discovery (I blue-pilled hard on the rubber dome era and abandoned loud clicky switches for a long time) that I was really annoyed that when I would try a serious type test that I would be about 5-10 WPM faster on an 'annoying to type on normally' scissor switch Apple board than I was on any of my mechs.  After a while of doing these a/b comparisons, I realized that in the end I chose a "quality" switch more for subjective values than complete objective ones.  If I wanted to achieve world record kind of typing speed (or actually max myself out), id focus on getting used to a switch with less travel distance.  Since most mechs involve more travel distance than your average keyboard, id argue that when speed is a primary concern, this is a disadvantage.  In the end you will probably type fastest on a keyboard that you know inside and out, but doing an a/b with your favorite keyboard vs one you swap out hoping to lose to is unfair.  You might trip yourself up if you go from your favorite board to some low travel scissor board, but imo getting intimate with a board of minimal travel distance will allow you to break your own speed records on your favorite mech.

[treeleaf64]

Really want to get my hands on one of those. N Key rollover, AND excellent keyfeel! I don't even mind getting a F XT as I don't even use arrow keys (I like to scroll, because I think it has finer movement ability) nor do I even touch the numpad, I can touch type numbers.

The arrow keys are probably amongst the most normal things about the F XT. The stepped keys, the placement of the modifiers, the vertical enter key (if you're used to ANSI layout). It will be a challenge to type on without looking, even if you use hot glue or something to add bumps to the home keys. I tried at work, for one day. I took it home the same day. Even the F AT takes some acclimation.

I am used to Asian layout now, because I have been typing on a KB5161 for the last 6 months. I would rather have a smaller enter key and a larger backspace (ANSI forever!!), but hey. It can't be THAT bad, can it?

[Maledicted]

I am used to Asian layout now, because I have been typing on a KB5161 for the last 6 months. I would rather have a smaller enter key and a larger backspace (ANSI forever!!), but hey. It can't be THAT bad, can it?

I don't know. I got the thing without a cable and spliced in a nice MIDI cable to replace it, and I still spent more time on fixing it than I ever did on typing with it. Since the steps on the caps are designed the way that they are primarily to prevent binding without the need for stabilizers, they're not exactly in places that would be considered the most ergonomic/usual place for modern typists to reach for. Maybe it couldn't be too terrible to tough it out and try to completely retrain the muscle memory of your pinkies. I imagine that would also become a problem when hopping to other more modern boards again though as well.

[treeleaf64]

I am used to Asian layout now, because I have been typing on a KB5161 for the last 6 months. I would rather have a smaller enter key and a larger backspace (ANSI forever!!), but hey. It can't be THAT bad, can it?

I don't know. I got the thing without a cable and spliced in a nice MIDI cable to replace it, and I still spent more time on fixing it than I ever did on typing with it. Since the steps on the caps are designed the way that they are primarily to prevent binding without the need for stabilizers, they're not exactly in places that would be considered the most ergonomic/usual place for modern typists to reach for. Maybe it couldn't be too terrible to tough it out and try to completely retrain the muscle memory of your pinkies. I imagine that would also become a problem when hopping to other more modern boards again though as well.

Yeah, I am thinking of saving up to get a new production F so that I won't have to deal with cleaning, restoring, and, frankly, typing on such a weird layout.

[Adieu910]

I only really like tactile switches. I think I can type almost as equally as fast on any keyboard including membrane.

I've been using MX Browns for the past 4 months. Everything else would be a 5 or 10 wpm decrease.

MX Browns - 170 wpm
Kailh Box Browns - 160 wpm

At lower speeds like 130 or 140 on difficult texts, it'd be around the same. In day to day typing, it's probably all the same unless they really bothered me. Obviously, I have better accuracy on mechanical, but I remedy this on short travel laptop keyboards by bottoming out really hard. The problem I have with high profile keycaps is that my fingers get stuck in between the keys sometimes when I type really fast or when I forget that I can't slide—moving my finger horizontally without lifting it after the initial key press for letter combinations like "ed". That probably makes a minute difference.

Faster with MX Browns, interesting. I believe in your new member post you said you got rid of the Box Brown board too? Do you prefer the Cherry switches overall?

Yeah, I needed money for the alps and zilent build. Cherry switches are all right. The 5g heavier actuation force on the box browns and 60% might have played a role in being slower, but they were satisfying. I like them equally. I’m thinking of buying a realforce 87u 45g so I’ll update on how fast I’ll type on the “typist’s dream” switch.

[jacethesaltsculptor]

Yeah, I am thinking of saving up to get a new production F so that I won't have to deal with cleaning, restoring, and, frankly, typing on such a weird layout.

The XT IS a weird layout, if I type on it for about a day, I can adjust for the worst of it, but it's still lost productivity, I tend to have it connected to machines that aren't as important, or ones that I don't type as much on. I keep a more normal layout available for other machines.

[treeleaf64]

Yeah, I am thinking of saving up to get a new production F so that I won't have to deal with cleaning, restoring, and, frankly, typing on such a weird layout.

The XT IS a weird layout, if I type on it for about a day, I can adjust for the worst of it, but it's still lost productivity, I tend to have it connected to machines that aren't as important, or ones that I don't type as much on. I keep a more normal layout available for other machines.

If you don't want it, can I have it

[Maledicted]

If you don't want it, can I have it

Be patient and find a deal. I can't imagine many of these XT boards people keep trying to sell for $200-300 are selling at all. I got mine for something like $45 shipped with the cut cable, a year or so ago.

[treeleaf64]

If you don't want it, can I have it

Be patient and find a deal. I can't imagine many of these XT boards people keep trying to sell for $200-300 are selling at all. I got mine for something like $45 shipped with the cut cable, a year or so ago.

Wow, that is truly cheap. For something of that quality, I would buy it in a heartbeat. Did you get it off of ebay, or mechmarket?

[Maledicted]

Wow, that is truly cheap. For something of that quality, I would buy it in a heartbeat. Did you get it off of ebay, or mechmarket?

Ebay. We threw some offers back and forth, which also helps.

[Erak606]

On lubed Topre I get around 130-140 wpm, then it would be Zilents 62g, then Gateron Inks.

[treeleaf64]

Wow, that is truly cheap. For something of that quality, I would buy it in a heartbeat. Did you get it off of ebay, or mechmarket?

Ebay. We threw some offers back and forth, which also helps.

Cool, thanks Male.

[jacethesaltsculptor]

If you don't want it, can I have it

If I should ever make enough money, I'd love to be able to say yes to something like this someday, but today is not that day.

I do however keep my ear to the ground on deals on Ebay, and if I find a good enough deal, I can pass that info on to you if you'd be interested. (Also a price range you'd like to spend if you are seriously interested.)

If you don't want it, can I have it

Be patient and find a deal. I can't imagine many of these XT boards people keep trying to sell for $200-300 are selling at all. I got mine for something like $45 shipped with the cut cable, a year or so ago.

That right there is a shining deal, I got my Bigfoot for 79 from Unicomp, but I doubt I'll ever see something as amazing as 45 for an XT, cord or not.

[Sintpinty]

On lubed Topre I get around 130-140 wpm, then it would be Zilents 62g, then Gateron Inks.

Tactile and clicks best switches

[treeleaf64]

Clicky switches are my favorite. The louder the better, but they have to sound good to be good. The only tactiles I've tried are MX brown, but they feel like the bump was an accident, rather than put there on purpose.

[Sintpinty]

Clicky switches are my favorite. The louder the better, but they have to sound good to be good. The only tactiles I've tried are MX brown, but they feel like the bump was an accident, rather than put there on purpose.

Agreed

[treeleaf64]

Back to topic. I type around the same speed on light and heavy switches. Right now, I am using MX red, and they are light switches for sure. I don't know about typing speed, but I think I would type faster on heavier switches, around the Gateron Yellow weighting.

[Eike]

MX browns: 80-90 wpm

[treeleaf64]

MX browns: 80-90 wpm

Do you find yourself typing faster on linear variants of the same weighting, for example, reds? I can't feel any tactility when I actuate the switch, so I want to know what exactly makes MX brown so good for speed typing.

[rxc92]

MX browns: 80-90 wpm

Do you find yourself typing faster on linear variants of the same weighting, for example, reds? I can't feel any tactility when I actuate the switch, so I want to know what exactly makes MX brown so good for speed typing.

 
 
It's widely felt that tactile switches are superior for typing, as you can rely on the switch to tell you that you've actuated a switch instead of relying on your mind several times per second; I'm personally much more accurate and quick on a rubber dome than I ever was on MX Red switches, despite having used them for months consistently. 
This is not the case for absolutely everyone, I'm sure, but I don't know of any very fast typist (i.e. consistently over 170 wpm or so) that uses linear switches. Most I see use rubber domes or tactile mechanical switches, clicky is rare and linear probably nonexistent; I myself was never able to get over 90% of my top speed with linear switches, probably because the error rate was notably higher.

[Sintpinty]

MX browns: 80-90 wpm

Do you find yourself typing faster on linear variants of the same weighting, for example, reds? I can't feel any tactility when I actuate the switch, so I want to know what exactly makes MX brown so good for speed typing.

 
 
It's widely felt that tactile switches are superior for typing, as you can rely on the switch to tell you that you've actuated a switch instead of relying on your mind several times per second; I'm personally much more accurate and quick on a rubber dome than I ever was on MX Red switches, despite having used them for months consistently. 
This is not the case for absolutely everyone, I'm sure, but I don't know of any very fast typist (i.e. consistently over 170 wpm or so) that uses linear switches. Most I see use rubber domes or tactile mechanical switches, clicky is rare and linear probably nonexistent; I myself was never able to get over 90% of my top speed with linear switches, probably because the error rate was notably higher.

My accuracy is pretty low on linears.

[Eike]

MX browns: 80-90 wpm

Do you find yourself typing faster on linear variants of the same weighting, for example, reds? I can't feel any tactility when I actuate the switch, so I want to know what exactly makes MX brown so good for speed typing.

I appreciate tactility as with linear switches I am constantly buttoming out every keystroke. I am not sure, if this longer distance travel per click really add up to a lower overall wpm score, but I definetely find it way harder to get into a flow which allows for faster typing speeds without tactility.

[Sintpinty]

MX browns: 80-90 wpm

Do you find yourself typing faster on linear variants of the same weighting, for example, reds? I can't feel any tactility when I actuate the switch, so I want to know what exactly makes MX brown so good for speed typing.

I appreciate tactility as with linear switches I am constantly buttoming out every keystroke. I am not sure, if this longer distance travel per click really add up to a lower overall wpm score, but I definetely find it way harder to get into a flow which allows for faster typing speeds without tactility.

light Linears in my opinion, suck

edit: managed to get 132 and 130 wpm today on rubber domes

[Maledicted]

light Linears in my opinion, suck

edit: managed to get 132 and 130 wpm today on rubber domes

I like reds a lot more than blacks. Something about heavy linears is tiring, when even box navies are not. Something more intermediate might be nice though.

[Ckeeb]

Red and brown, almost same for me. I like red better.

[OtherBarry1992]

Cherry mx reds, but my wpm is nothing special.....at all...

[Sintpinty]

Cherry mx reds, but my wpm is nothing special.....at all...

Yeah mine either.. 130 wpm hit for basic words.. nothing much.

[Sintpinty]

light Linears in my opinion, suck

edit: managed to get 132 and 130 wpm today on rubber domes

I like reds a lot more than blacks. Something about heavy linears is tiring, when even box navies are not. Something more intermediate might be nice though.

I like reds but they too light

[Adieu910]

Cherry mx reds, but my wpm is nothing special.....at all...

Yeah mine either.. 130 wpm hit for basic words.. nothing much.

Are you kidding me? Anything above 100 wpm is fast in my book. I guess 80 wpm is the average for the frequent computer user and 120 wpm for the gamer or programmer. It’s good, but not blow-me-away impressive.

 I think an impressive typing speed would be 210 wpm high speed and 190-200 wpm average for 1 minute on 10FF top 200 common words. On Typeracer that reflects the real life typing the most (minus ctrl+a for corrections), 300 wpm high on a one line quote, 230 on 2+ lines and 200 on 5+ lines but 180 wpm for last 10 races average or 160 wpm all time average including the really nasty quotes with bajillion punctuation like Sean Wrona’s Das Keyboard Typing Competition Ping Pong Text, bizarre words, or a string of numbers you end up memorizing to get more than 140 wpm. I think only 10-30 registered people typing in English fit one or more of those criteria.

A vast majority of them just type on a regular keyboard even laptop with QWERTY layout and with their own unique style like using 8 or 4 fingers, different finger usage, or double tapping caps lock for shift. It would only be a few wpm difference anyway and not worth the effort to unlearn old habits and make typing more efficient.

EDIT: I don’t want to get too off topic or make another post. I also type 5 wpm slower on Orange Alps because the tactility is more spread out and I can’t ignore it? It may be due to me not wanting to break my switches with my fingers hammering away at them. I have achieved 200 wpm on 3 liner quote so the capability is still there.

My dream speedtyping switch would be MX Browns with slightly shorter travel and rounded low profile keycaps so I can slide my fingers around without them getting stuck between the keycaps and still retain accuracy.

[treeleaf64]

Cherry mx reds, but my wpm is nothing special.....at all...

Yeah mine either.. 130 wpm hit for basic words.. nothing much.

Are you kidding me? Anything above 100 wpm is fast in my book. I guess 80 wpm is the average for the frequent computer user and 120 wpm for the gamer or programmer. It’s good, but not blow-me-away impressive.

 I think an impressive typing speed would be 210 wpm high speed and 190-200 wpm average for 1 minute on 10FF top 200 common words. On Typeracer that reflects the real life typing the most (minus ctrl+a for corrections), 300 wpm high on a one line quote, 230 on 2+ lines and 200 on 5+ lines but 180 wpm for last 10 races average or 160 wpm all time average including the really nasty quotes with bajillion punctuation like Sean Wrona’s Das Keyboard Typing Competition Ping Pong Text, bizarre words, or a string of numbers you end up memorizing to get more than 140 wpm. I think only 10-30 registered people typing in English fit one or more of those criteria.

A vast majority of them just type on a regular keyboard even laptop with QWERTY layout and with their own unique style like using 8 or 4 fingers, different finger usage, or double tapping caps lock for shift. It would only be a few wpm difference anyway and not worth the effort to unlearn old habits and make typing more efficient.

EDIT: I don’t want to get too off topic or make another post. I also type 5 wpm slower on Orange Alps because the tactility is more spread out and I can’t ignore it? It may be due to me not wanting to break my switches with my fingers hammering away at them. I have achieved 200 wpm on 3 liner quote so the capability is still there.

My dream speedtyping switch would be MX Browns with slightly shorter travel and rounded low profile keycaps so I can slide my fingers around without them getting stuck between the keycaps and still retain accuracy.

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

[Sintpinty]

Cherry mx reds, but my wpm is nothing special.....at all...

Yeah mine either.. 130 wpm hit for basic words.. nothing much.

Are you kidding me? Anything above 100 wpm is fast in my book. I guess 80 wpm is the average for the frequent computer user and 120 wpm for the gamer or programmer. It’s good, but not blow-me-away impressive.

 I think an impressive typing speed would be 210 wpm high speed and 190-200 wpm average for 1 minute on 10FF top 200 common words. On Typeracer that reflects the real life typing the most (minus ctrl+a for corrections), 300 wpm high on a one line quote, 230 on 2+ lines and 200 on 5+ lines but 180 wpm for last 10 races average or 160 wpm all time average including the really nasty quotes with bajillion punctuation like Sean Wrona’s Das Keyboard Typing Competition Ping Pong Text, bizarre words, or a string of numbers you end up memorizing to get more than 140 wpm. I think only 10-30 registered people typing in English fit one or more of those criteria.

A vast majority of them just type on a regular keyboard even laptop with QWERTY layout and with their own unique style like using 8 or 4 fingers, different finger usage, or double tapping caps lock for shift. It would only be a few wpm difference anyway and not worth the effort to unlearn old habits and make typing more efficient.

EDIT: I don’t want to get too off topic or make another post. I also type 5 wpm slower on Orange Alps because the tactility is more spread out and I can’t ignore it? It may be due to me not wanting to break my switches with my fingers hammering away at them. I have achieved 200 wpm on 3 liner quote so the capability is still there.

My dream speedtyping switch would be MX Browns with slightly shorter travel and rounded low profile keycaps so I can slide my fingers around without them getting stuck between the keycaps and still retain accuracy.

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

Yeah sure.

MX browns are what is known as "tactile switches" having a bump when the key travels up. This feeling is good for typists as it gives them feedback when a key is pressed. Some prefer clicky switches as tactile and audible feedback is right for them.

[Adieu910]

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

I like MX Browns for typing because I feel like they have the right amount of tactility for feedback and they're light. I don't want to get distracted by too much tactility like on Kailh Box Browns or Alps Orange. No need to bottom out, but I do most of the time by habit thanks to membrane keyboards. When I don't, I can burst 200 wpm. Linears are kinda boring to me, especially lubed one; they just feel like butter and I'd prefer that crisp feedback. 

[Maledicted]

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

I like MX Browns for typing because I feel like they have the right amount of tactility for feedback and they're light. I don't want to get distracted by too much tactility like on Kailh Box Browns or Alps Orange. No need to bottom out, but I do most of the time by habit thanks to membrane keyboards. When I don't, I can burst 200 wpm. Linears are kinda boring to me, especially lubed one; they just feel like butter and I'd prefer that crisp feedback.

Have you tried box whites? They're light and only minimally tactile, maybe even less tactile than browns, but the tactility is very crisp. They do click though, if that matters. I can't do browns myself, too scratchy.

[Adieu910]

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

I like MX Browns for typing because I feel like they have the right amount of tactility for feedback and they're light. I don't want to get distracted by too much tactility like on Kailh Box Browns or Alps Orange. No need to bottom out, but I do most of the time by habit thanks to membrane keyboards. When I don't, I can burst 200 wpm. Linears are kinda boring to me, especially lubed one; they just feel like butter and I'd prefer that crisp feedback.

Have you tried box whites? They're light and only minimally tactile, maybe even less tactile than browns, but the tactility is very crisp. They do click though, if that matters. I can't do browns myself, too scratchy.

I haven’t tried them. I don’t think I’d be able to feel the tactility if it’s less tactile than browns since people are calling browns “practically linears”. I never even minded the scratchiness. I didn’t know they were scratchy until it was pointed out to me. I don’t like clickies much and I hate MX blues. Amber alps are the only clicky I’ve tried that I liked. It sounds and feels like what I’d expect a classic switch to be like. My typing is already so loud, so it’ll be even louder with clickies yikes. 

[OtherBarry1992]

Blues for me

[derpdederp]

Interesting topic of typing speed of linear vs tactile, in general. Thinking of switching my Kinesis to linear (cherry black silenced). The tactile click itself increases the stress back onto your finger, I would think. I don't think there's evidence that the tactile click is being sensed by you in order to stop before it bottoms out... More like your senses are calibrating over time (not per click) for how far and how hard to press.

[Maledicted]

Interesting topic of typing speed of linear vs tactile, in general. Thinking of switching my Kinesis to linear (cherry black silenced). The tactile click itself increases the stress back onto your finger, I would think. I don't think there's evidence that the tactile click is being sensed by you in order to stop before it bottoms out... More like your senses are calibrating over time (not per click) for how far and how hard to press.

Agreed, although I mash keys either way. I just do it more, or less, gently after adjusting to a switch.

[Avi_]

I touch type properly since late 90s. Work with computers a lot. And the best I can do is slightly above 60 wpm. On any of the switches that I have: reds, browns, blacks, box pinks, BS, flaretech blues even. Obviously, at this speed the switch type does not play any role.

[JakeyPancakey]

My current switches and average correlated speeds:

Cherry MX Red - 79 WPM
Cherry MX Blue - 82 WPM
Gateron Brown  - 83 WPM
IBM Capacitive Buckling Spring - 84 WPM

Gonna make my first DIY board in a week or two with Kailh Box Jades.

[Maledicted]

My current switches and average correlated speeds:

Cherry MX Red - 79 WPM
Cherry MX Blue - 82 WPM
Gateron Brown  - 83 WPM
IBM Capacitive Buckling Spring - 84 WPM

Gonna make my first DIY board in a week or two with Kailh Box Jades.

Nice choice. 

Interesting that you type fastest on capacitive buckling spring. I never feel like I'm typing extremely fast on them vs other switch types, though with the new ones having lighter springs, that may have changed.

[jacethesaltsculptor]

My current switches and average correlated speeds:

Cherry MX Red - 79 WPM
Cherry MX Blue - 82 WPM
Gateron Brown  - 83 WPM
IBM Capacitive Buckling Spring - 84 WPM

Gonna make my first DIY board in a week or two with Kailh Box Jades.

Nice choice. 

Interesting that you type fastest on capacitive buckling spring. I never feel like I'm typing extremely fast on them vs other switch types, though with the new ones having lighter springs, that may have changed.

I feel what he is saying, he has a very similar switch preference to me. (If what he tested is anything to go by.)

For me I love the feel of Buckling springs, but the key spacing is the big thing, IBM's are laid out perfectly (Key spacing and keycap feel and design), and it means I'm making a lot less mistakes whenever I'm using them, so I'm more confident and go faster.

[subluxe]

I set my PB at 153 with a stupid laptop scissor keyboard.

My average on my mech is usually around 120-130, and I have to do it with linears around 62-67g.

[fatcoffeebeans]

all I know is mx reds and topre 45... I type faster on mx reds

[Herman]

Currently on stock MX Browns, and if I touch type, I can get up to around 85-90 WPM. If I go back to my non-touch typing, unorthodox ways, I've maxed out at ~125 WPM on these switches.

Believe it or not fastest I've ever typed was on the Apple butterfly switch at 135 WPM. 

[Sintpinty]

all I know is mx reds and topre 45... I type faster on mx reds

Because they’re so light I slow down 😔

[Pylon]

My sustained speeds across MX Blue, MX Clear, and a Thinkpad T450s keyboard are about the same (~100-110WPM), but I've noticed higher burst speeds on MX Clear. I'm noticeably slower but more accurate on buckling springs.

[shine]

I'm faster on the beamspring (<100 wpm), but i think it's about the ergonomics of the 3276

[dish]

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

When you type fast you barely feel the switch. Whether it's browns or an 80g tactile, you can only really tell if the switch actuated or not. With linears you can't really tell. This matters maybe 1/30 or 1/100 errors, and when you type fast you will only mentally realize you messed up 4-8 keys later depending on sequence. Realizing it mentally, instead of seeing it on screen, saves your wpm a ton over having to look at where you messed up.

The other advantage of tactile is you know the exact point it actuates in games and during casual use. You can ride right near the point and hit it, and it's very clear when you've let the key go or pressed it. With linears like reds it's really not obvious even after years of use so you always kinda have to hover and do very clear press+releases. Which isn't ideal in wasd games like CSGO where precise timing is everything for counterstrafing and "ad".

I can type the same speed on linear or tactile (140wpm lifetime average over 8 years, 154wpm average over past few months, & a bit over 1k races on typeracer with the only skipped races being ones where an application popped up or something, best race >210wpm on a ~30s passage.)

 I used reds for 7? years, brown for 1-2 before that, and am using gateron silent browns+thick orings right now. I've also used heavier switches and just don't see the point, and to be honest browns/silent browns feel heavy after using the same mx reds for ages. Actuation force drops with usage. I remember when I first got mx reds I was accidentally hitting modifier keys and all kinds of stuff, and now they take ~3/4 the force to press as new reds and I never accidentally hit anything.

My big gripe with browns & silent browns is they actuate ~10%-20% later than mx reds. I'd prefer the bump+actuation come a bit sooner. Box Browns actually actuate closer to reds and that's nice, but I'm not using a non-silent switch in 2020 and I dislike the box part of box browns. I'm not sure where the lighter aliaz actuate, and sites don't seem to test that anymore which kinda sucks because it's super important.  I've never tried speed switches but I'd probably like them for typing. Not so much gaming.

[Maledicted]

Can you please state what you like about MX Browns for typing? I have no idea why so many people like MX browns.

When you type fast you barely feel the switch. Whether it's browns or an 80g tactile, you can only really tell if the switch actuated or not. With linears you can't really tell. This matters maybe 1/30 or 1/100 errors, and when you type fast you will only mentally realize you messed up 4-8 keys later depending on sequence. Realizing it mentally, instead of seeing it on screen, saves your wpm a ton over having to look at where you messed up.

The other advantage of tactile is you know the exact point it actuates in games and during casual use. You can ride right near the point and hit it, and it's very clear when you've let the key go or pressed it. With linears like reds it's really not obvious even after years of use so you always kinda have to hover and do very clear press+releases. Which isn't ideal in wasd games like CSGO where precise timing is everything for counterstrafing and "ad".

I can type the same speed on linear or tactile (140wpm lifetime average over 8 years, 154wpm average over past few months, & a bit over 1k races on typeracer with the only skipped races being ones where an application popped up or something, best race >210wpm on a ~30s passage.)

 I used reds for 7? years, brown for 1-2 before that, and am using gateron silent browns+thick orings right now. I've also used heavier switches and just don't see the point, and to be honest browns/silent browns feel heavy after using the same mx reds for ages. Actuation force drops with usage. I remember when I first got mx reds I was accidentally hitting modifier keys and all kinds of stuff, and now they take ~3/4 the force to press as new reds and I never accidentally hit anything.

My big gripe with browns & silent browns is they actuate ~10%-20% later than mx reds. I'd prefer the bump+actuation come a bit sooner. Box Browns actually actuate closer to reds and that's nice, but I'm not using a non-silent switch in 2020 and I dislike the box part of box browns. I'm not sure where the lighter aliaz actuate, and sites don't seem to test that anymore which kinda sucks because it's super important.  I've never tried speed switches but I'd probably like them for typing. Not so much gaming.

I think treeleaf64 was talking specifically about MX browns, since a lot of people (myself included) think they're literally the worst modern switch they've ever felt in their lives, the tactility being entirely limited to varying levels of grit when typing. I don't know if he's entirely a clicky guy, but he does seem to have an interest in vintage clickies, so I don't imagine it was framed at all as a linear vs tactile thing, just a dislike of that specific Cherry switch.

I didn't dislike box browns, which is saying a lot from me in regards to tactiles. Gateron browns were pretty nice too. What is it about the box design that's not to like? The weird spring setup specific to their tactiles? I love the ip56 rating, and the clickbars, since I'm a clicky guy.

[rhapsody]

Cherry mx reds, but my wpm is nothing special.....at all...

Yeah mine either.. 130 wpm hit for basic words.. nothing much.

Are you kidding me? Anything above 100 wpm is fast in my book. I guess 80 wpm is the average for the frequent computer user and 120 wpm for the gamer or programmer. It’s good, but not blow-me-away impressive.

 I think an impressive typing speed would be 210 wpm high speed and 190-200 wpm average for 1 minute on 10FF top 200 common words. On Typeracer that reflects the real life typing the most (minus ctrl+a for corrections), 300 wpm high on a one line quote, 230 on 2+ lines and 200 on 5+ lines but 180 wpm for last 10 races average or 160 wpm all time average including the really nasty quotes with bajillion punctuation like Sean Wrona’s Das Keyboard Typing Competition Ping Pong Text, bizarre words, or a string of numbers you end up memorizing to get more than 140 wpm. I think only 10-30 registered people typing in English fit one or more of those criteria.

A vast majority of them just type on a regular keyboard even laptop with QWERTY layout and with their own unique style like using 8 or 4 fingers, different finger usage, or double tapping caps lock for shift. It would only be a few wpm difference anyway and not worth the effort to unlearn old habits and make typing more efficient.

EDIT: I don’t want to get too off topic or make another post. I also type 5 wpm slower on Orange Alps because the tactility is more spread out and I can’t ignore it? It may be due to me not wanting to break my switches with my fingers hammering away at them. I have achieved 200 wpm on 3 liner quote so the capability is still there.

My dream speedtyping switch would be MX Browns with slightly shorter travel and rounded low profile keycaps so I can slide my fingers around without them getting stuck between the keycaps and still retain accuracy.

I registered just to reply to this thread. Your experience on typeracer and switch experience is very similar to mine except I'm a bit slower at 127 overall over 4k races with 155 at highest burst. I know exactly what you mean by the bit about high key caps catching your finger during transitions which led me to finding DSA keycaps which is shorter, flatter and wider than the standard cherry after wearing out the stock caps on my brown mx filcos I used over 10 years. Then I found topre and have been using topre 55g for about 3 years now.
What did you think about topre vs the brown mx?
I'm also curious about kailh low profiles as someone mentioned since the unnecessary long travel and scratchiness of the mx browns are what I would change about it.

[jamster]

On switches that I like, my typing speed (around 80wpm, but that's based on a single typing test done out of boredom last year, because I have no interest in speed) is more dependent on my mood, how tired I am, and whether or not I'm 'in the zone.' All the switches I like are midweight tactile.

On switches that I dislike, I simply make loads of errors so spend a lot of time on backspace. This would be any linear switch (including MX Browns, which are practically linear), and modern chicket keyboards.

[ideus]

An above average typist can type at the same pace on any board.

[teexcue]

Gat Reds: 65 wpm
Cherry Blues: 75 wpm
2016 MacBook Pro: 88 wpm

Love the feels of mech switches, but I’m definitely faster and more accurate on a short travel laptop keyboard.

[Skelig]

I set a PB with 151 WPM in 2012 with my Model M, matched it four years later on MX Blues with another 151 WPM. Fast forward to a few days ago and with my new Blue Alps board I've had two more 151s and finally broke the curse with a 152.

During those years I've tried out a variety of other switches and generally saw similar results to each other, 140~145 WPM generally. Blue Alps are incredible now that I'm pretty consistently breaking 150.

[rxc92]

An above average typist can type at the same pace on any board.

 
 
Patently incorrect, the lack of feedback on linears makes typing accurately at high speed next to impossible.

[funkmon]

An above average typist can type at the same pace on any board.

[treeleaf64]

[funkmon]

An above average typist can type at the same pace on any board.

[Mekanist]

Lubed and Filmed T1s for alphas, Zilent housing with Cream Stems for Mods

[c0rbin]

Laptop scissor switches, hands down.

[hpetrovski]

Light-ish lubed linears for me, around the 60g ballpark. Clickies seem to slow me down, and I'm too inconsistent on any tactiles. Also, for some reason I've been typing faster on SA rather than Cherry profile, which is baffling to me.