What Are Optical Keyboards and Optical Switches?

What is an Optical Keyboard?

An optical keyboard refers to a keyboard that uses optical switches in its key switches.

On the other hand, when key switches use physical contacts, they are called mechanical switches, and such keyboards are called mechanical keyboards.

Therefore, there is no such thing as an "optical switch mechanical keyboard" or "optical mechanical switch."

What is an Optical Switch?

As the name suggests, an optical switch is a switch that uses light to turn on and off.

In a mechanical keyboard switch, pressing a key turns the switch on by physically contacting a setting at the bottom of the switch, and turning it off by releasing the contact, so the on/off is done by physical contact.

On the other hand, an optical switch constantly emits light from an internal light source such as an LED, and detects when the light beam is blocked by pressing the key to switch on and off.

Advantages of Optical Keyboards

The advantages of optical keyboards are:

1. They can support Rapid Trigger
2. They have a lower risk of switch failure

Can Support Rapid Trigger

With the recent gaming boom, gaming keyboards have become faster and more functional, and one feature gaining attention is Rapid Trigger.

Rapid Trigger is a technology that speeds up keyboard input responsiveness, and the adjustment of the important actuation point can be obtained more accurately and precisely with optical switches than with mechanical switches.

What is "Rapid Trigger" for Ultra-Fast Keyboard Keystrokes? – Advantages and Disadvantages

Rapid Trigger, which accelerates the input responsiveness of keyboards. Here, we explain the features, advantages, and disadvantages of "Rapid Trigger," a function recommended for gamers and those who are particular about typing.

Lower Risk of Switch Failure

Optical switches are said to have a lower risk of switch failure compared to mechanical switches because they do not have physical contact points, resulting in less wear on the parts.

However, in terms of the durability of the switch itself, both mechanical and optical switches are often rated for around 100 million keystrokes, so there is not a significant difference in the manufacturer's official figures.

Disadvantages of Optical Keyboards

High Product Price

The biggest disadvantage of optical keyboards is their price.

Even mechanical keyboards usually cost around $50, but optical keyboards that use optical switches for all keys cost about $100 for inexpensive models, and over $200 for high-end models.

If you prioritize durability, the cost is about the same as buying two mechanical keyboards, so the cost performance is not very good.

Razer Huntsman V2

Among optical keyboards, which often come with high price tags, the Razer Huntsman V2 can be purchased for around $100.

 Amazon

 eBay

Few Situations Where You Benefit

The main advantage of optical keyboards is the ability to finely adjust the actuation point and support for high-speed features like Rapid Trigger.

However, while this feature is very powerful in FPS games and similar scenarios, in reality, there are not many other situations where it can be fully utilized.

In other words, if you do not use the main advantages of an optical keyboard, it may simply become an expensive keyboard.