In the ever-evolving world of mechanical keyboards, Choc switches, designed by Kailh, have carved out a distinct niche, offering an ultra-slim switch design that is lightweight and versatile. These low-profile switches are ideal for compact keyboards, laptops, and other devices requiring a thinner form factor without sacrificing tactile or auditory feedback. This article provides a detailed look into the structure, features, and advantages of Choc switches, as well as a comparison with Cherry switches.
Structure of Choc Switches
Choc switches are designed with an innovative structure that ensures compactness, stability, and durability. Below is a breakdown of their structural highlights:
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"Cross Stem" Keycap Compatibility:
Choc switches feature a cross-shaped stem that is compatible with custom keycap designs. This allows users to personalize their keyboards while maintaining a low-profile structure. -
Simplified Design with Optimized Structure:
The exterior design is streamlined with structural improvements, including removable fixed pins for easier assembly and customization. -
Guided Stem for Stability:
The top cover features a guiding slot that ensures smooth and stable keypresses without wobbling, even during intense typing or gaming sessions. -
Patented Horizontal Push Rod and Torsion Spring Mechanism:
A unique proprietary design employs a horizontal push rod and torsion spring for actuation. This ensures higher product stability, longer life, and consistent performance across its lifespan. -
Variety of Feel Options:
Choc switches offer three distinct types of tactile experiences:- Clicky: Provides an audible click with tactile feedback.
- Linear: Smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps.
- Tactile: A gentle bump for feedback without the clicking sound.
Key Features of Choc Switches
Choc switches are packed with features that make them stand out in the market:
- Rated Power: 12V DC, 10mA
- Contact Resistance: ≤200mΩ
- Insulation Resistance: ≥100MΩ (at DC 100V)
- Dielectric Strength: AC 100V (50-60Hz) for 1 minute
- Actuation Travel: 1.3mm ± 0.3mm
- Total Travel Distance: 3.2mm ± 0.25mm
- Durability: 50,000,000 keypresses
These specifications highlight the durability, precision, and reliability of Choc switches, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.
Comparison with Cherry Switches
While Cherry switches are often regarded as the industry standard, Kailh's Choc switches introduce several innovations and improvements that set them apart. Here's a detailed comparison:
1. Cross Stem Keycap Compatibility
- Kailh Choc V2 switches are fully compatible with standard "cross-stem" keycaps, making them more versatile in terms of keycap customization.
- Cherry switches, while also compatible with cross-stem keycaps, have a slightly different stem size, which can limit compatibility in low-profile designs.
2. PCB Mounting Design
Kailh Choc switches and Cherry switches differ significantly in PCB mounting design. Key differences include:
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Patent Avoidance:
Kailh developed their own patented design to avoid infringing on Cherry’s patents. This allows for greater flexibility in switch design and functionality. -
Structural Improvements:
Cherry switches have a large, irregular-shaped bottom post, which can make PCB hole drilling more costly and reduce PCB strength. Kailh Choc switches, on the other hand, feature a simpler design with optimized PCB mounting for cost-efficient manufacturing. -
Illumination Enhancements:
Kailh Choc switches feature a larger light-emitting area for better backlighting performance, while Cherry switches have a smaller light-emitting hole, which can limit RGB effects. -
Improved Stability:
Choc switches have dual-sided terminal pins, enhancing stability when mounted on a PCB. Cherry switches, by contrast, have a single-sided pin design, which may lead to lower stability, especially when removing tight keycaps.
3. Guided Stem Design
- Kailh Choc switches feature a guiding slot on the top cover that ensures smooth actuation and prevents the stem from wobbling or misaligning during keystrokes.
- Cherry switches use a bottom-positioned irregular-shaped post for stabilization, which, while functional, adds complexity to the design.
4. Actuation Mechanism
One of the most significant differences lies in the actuation mechanism:
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Kailh's Patented Design:
Choc switches use a patented horizontal push rod and torsion spring mechanism. This design reduces friction between plastic and metal components, minimizing wear and tear over time. Additionally, the contact points are sloped, preventing deformation and ensuring consistent performance.
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Cherry's Traditional Design:
Cherry switches rely on a more conventional design, where plastic components directly touch metal contact points. This increases friction and accelerates wear, potentially reducing the switch's lifespan and reliability.
Why Choose Choc Switches?
Here are some compelling reasons to consider Kailh Choc switches for your next keyboard build or project:
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Ultra-Slim Profile:
Perfect for compact keyboards, laptops, and other space-saving applications. -
Customizable Feel:
Choose between Clicky, Linear, and Tactile options to match your typing preferences. -
Durability:
With a lifespan of 50 million keypresses, Choc switches are built to last. -
Enhanced Stability:
The guided stem design and dual-pin mounting system ensure precision and reliability. -
Improved Backlighting:
A larger light-emitting area enhances RGB effects, making them ideal for aesthetic builds.
Conclusion
Kailh Choc switches represent a significant advancement in low-profile mechanical switch technology. With their innovative design, robust durability, and improved features compared to traditional Cherry switches, they are an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a compact yet high-performing keyboard. Whether you're a gamer, programmer, or mechanical keyboard enthusiast, Choc switches offer the perfect blend of form and function.
Ready to explore the world of Choc switches? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
