geekhack

geekhack Community => Keyboard Keycaps => Topic started by: Rossytaylor on Wed, 01 October 2014, 09:35:41

Title: Are Key switch samplers worth it?
Post by: Rossytaylor on Wed, 01 October 2014, 09:35:41

I have a poker II with Cherry Mx Blues on currently, i've heard from alot of people that the reds are horrible to use however i love the sound of them over the blues but im not too sure if i want to invest the money into a keyboard with different keys as i dont want to waste my money if i dont like them, so are key samplers worth it ( one with each key type) i heard browns are nice but they just dont have the same sound as red :D

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I0VX4VS/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=UCNXQRGALW19&coliid=I2AL8Q6HWH540Z

Title: Re: Are Key switch samplers worth it?
Post by: Xike on Wed, 01 October 2014, 12:50:00

Samplers are fun and have a ton of uses outside of actually testing switches.

If you are intending to use it for testing switches, however, I think it's worth it. 9 pounds is a comparatively small investment compared to the cost of a full keyboard. You don't want to end up with a switch you don't like using and regret not making that small purchase ahead of time.

I have my first tester on order from the recent massdrop, and plan on using it as a display stand for some of my caps. You can also grab a Teensy USB development board if you are technically inclined and turn your tester into a mini custom keyboard, for whatever reason.

Title: Re: Are Key switch samplers worth it?
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 01 October 2014, 17:10:42

Only up to a point.  It does not compare to typing on a full keyboard with a particular switch, and there are other factors such as the plate in the full keyboard, keycap material and so on.

The one you have linked will not give a true impression of typing on a keyboard, but will give you a vague indication of what each switch feels like.  Just close your eyes and pretend you are pressing the fire key or something ;)

If you have a local computer retailer, maybe ask them if you can try a couple of different mechanical keyboards.  Some people are lucky - their vendors actually have a few available to try.

But if you do get a switch tester (I have about 3 or 4 of various types), you can use it to display your favourite artisan keycaps :)