The Corsair K95 Platinum is a behemoth of a keyboard, packed with features and customization options that make it a dream come true for gamers and enthusiasts alike. One of the most critical components of this mechanical marvel is its switches, which play a vital role in determining the overall typing experience. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of switches and explore what makes the Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches truly special.
What are Switches, and Why do they Matter?
Before we dive into the specifics of the Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches, it’s essential to understand what switches are and why they’re so crucial to the keyboard’s performance.
Switches are the physical mechanisms underneath each keycap that register keystrokes and transmit signals to your computer. They’re responsible for the tactile feedback, sound, and overall feel of the keyboard. A good switch can make all the difference between a mediocre typing experience and a truly exceptional one.
There are several types of switches available, each with its unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. The type of switch used in a keyboard can greatly impact factors such as:
- Actuation force: The amount of pressure required to register a keystroke
- Actuation point: The distance a key must travel before it registers a keystroke
- Switch feel: The tactile feedback and overall sensation of pressing a key
- Sound level: The noise level produced by the switch when pressed
The Corsair K95 Platinum’s Switches: Cherry MX Brown
Now that we’ve covered the importance of switches, let’s take a closer look at the Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches. The K95 Platinum features Cherry MX Brown switches, which are widely regarded as one of the most popular and versatile switch types available.
Cherry MX Brown switches are a type of tactile switch, known for their:
- Medium actuation force: 45g, making them suitable for both gaming and typing
- Distinct tactile bump: A clear, audible click that provides feedback when the switch is actuated
- Quieter operation: Compared to other tactile switches, Cherry MX Browns are relatively quiet
The Cherry MX Brown switch is an excellent choice for the Corsair K95 Platinum, as it offers a balance between tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound level. This makes it an ideal switch for gamers, typists, and anyone who demands a high-quality typing experience.
Cherry MX Brown Switches: The Perfect Compromise?
One of the most significant advantages of Cherry MX Brown switches is their ability to strike a balance between competing demands. They offer a tactile bump and audible click, making them suitable for gamers and typists who require feedback and precision. At the same time, they’re relatively quiet, making them a great choice for those who work or game in noise-sensitive environments.
This compromise is achieved through the switch’s unique design. The Cherry MX Brown switch features a:
- Pre-travel distance: 2.2mm, which provides a clear tactile bump and audible click
- Total travel distance: 4mm, which allows for a smooth, linear motion
- Reset point: 1.2mm, which helps prevent accidental key presses
This carefully crafted design makes the Cherry MX Brown switch an excellent choice for a wide range of applications, from fast-paced gaming to precise typing.
Beyond the Switches: The Corsair K95 Platinum’s Customization Options
While the Cherry MX Brown switches are undoubtedly a highlight of the Corsair K95 Platinum, this keyboard offers a wealth of customization options that can further enhance your typing experience.
Macro Keys and Customizable Buttons
The Corsair K95 Platinum features a range of customizable buttons, including:
- Macro keys: 6 programmable keys that can be customized to perform complex actions
- Media controls: Dedicated buttons for play/pause, stop, and volume control
- Lighting controls: Buttons to adjust the keyboard’s RGB lighting scheme
These customizable buttons can be tailored to your specific needs, allowing you to streamline your workflow, simplify complex actions, or create custom shortcuts.
Corsair’s iCUE Software: Unlocking the K95 Platinum’s Full Potential
The Corsair K95 Platinum’s customization options are further enhanced by Corsair’s iCUE software. This powerful tool allows you to:
- Customize key bindings: Assign complex macros, shortcuts, or custom actions to any key
- Adjust lighting effects: Create custom RGB lighting schemes, or synchronize with other iCUE-compatible devices
- Monitor performance: Track key press analytics, switch durability, and other performance metrics
With iCUE, you can unlock the full potential of the Corsair K95 Platinum, tailoring your keyboard to your unique preferences and workflows.
Conclusion
The Corsair K95 Platinum is a masterclass in keyboard design, featuring Cherry MX Brown switches that offer a perfect blend of tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound level. When combined with the keyboard’s extensive customization options, including macro keys, customizable buttons, and Corsair’s iCUE software, the K95 Platinum becomes an unstoppable force for gamers, typists, and anyone who demands the best.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a typing enthusiast, the Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches and customization options make it an exceptional choice for anyone seeking an unparalleled typing experience. So why settle for anything less? Unleash the power of the Corsair K95 Platinum and discover a whole new world of possibilities.
What makes the Corsair K95 Platinum switches so special?
The Corsair K95 Platinum switches are highly regarded for their exceptional tactile feedback, precise actuation, and durability. These switches are designed to provide a superior typing experience, making them ideal for gamers, writers, and anyone who spends extended periods typing. The K95 Platinum switches are built with a proprietary stem design and a unique tactile bump, which allows for a more accurate and responsive typing experience.
Moreover, the switches are built to last, with a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes. This means that the switches can withstand heavy usage without compromising on performance. Additionally, the switches are resistant to dust, water, and other environmental factors, making them suitable for use in a variety of settings.
What is the difference between the K95 Platinum’s Cherry MX switches and other switch types?
The Corsair K95 Platinum features Cherry MX switches, which are widely regarded as the gold standard for mechanical switches. Cherry MX switches are known for their precise actuation, tactile feedback, and durability. They are available in a range of variants, including Cherry MX Red, Cherry MX Black, and Cherry MX Brown, each with its own unique characteristics and feel. In contrast, other switch types, such as membrane switches or scissor switches, lack the tactile feedback and precision of Cherry MX switches.
In terms of performance, Cherry MX switches are designed to provide a more precise and responsive typing experience. They have a distinct tactile bump and audible click, making it easier to type accurately and efficiently. This makes them ideal for applications that require high-speed and high-accuracy typing, such as gaming and coding.
How do the K95 Platinum’s switches compare to other high-end keyboards?
The Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches are comparable to those found on other high-end keyboards, such as the Razer BlackWidow and the Logitech G512. However, the K95 Platinum’s switches are considered to be among the best in class, offering a more precise and responsive typing experience. The proprietary stem design and unique tactile bump of the K95 Platinum switches provide a more refined and nuanced typing experience, making them ideal for those who demand the best.
In terms of customization options, the K95 Platinum offers a range of switch variants, including Cherry MX Red, Cherry MX Black, and Cherry MX Brown. This allows users to choose the switch type that best suits their typing preferences and needs.
Can I customize the K95 Platinum’s switches to suit my typing preferences?
Yes, the Corsair K95 Platinum offers a range of customization options for its switches. Users can choose from a range of switch variants, including Cherry MX Red, Cherry MX Black, and Cherry MX Brown, each with its own unique characteristics and feel. Additionally, the K95 Platinum features customizable backlighting and macro keys, allowing users to tailor the keyboard to their specific needs and preferences.
Moreover, the K95 Platinum is compatible with Corsair’s iCUE software, which allows users to customize the keyboard’s lighting, macro keys, and switch settings. This provides a high degree of flexibility and customization, making the K95 Platinum an ideal choice for users who require a tailored typing experience.
Are the K95 Platinum’s switches suitable for heavy gaming use?
Yes, the Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches are more than suitable for heavy gaming use. The switches are designed to provide a fast and precise typing experience, making them ideal for fast-paced games that require rapid keyboard input. The Cherry MX switches are also highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them capable of withstanding the demands of heavy gaming use.
Additionally, the K95 Platinum’s switches are designed to provide a high level of tactile feedback, making it easier to type accurately and efficiently, even in high-stress gaming situations. This, combined with the keyboard’s customizable macro keys and lighting, makes the K95 Platinum an ideal choice for gamers who demand the best.
How do I clean and maintain the K95 Platinum’s switches?
Cleaning and maintaining the Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches is relatively straightforward. To clean the switches, users can use compressed air to remove dust and debris from the switch cavities. A soft, dry cloth can also be used to wipe down the switches and remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated. It’s also important to avoid exposure to liquids, as this can damage the switches.
Regular maintenance is also important to ensure the switches continue to perform optimally. Users can use a switch cleaning tool to remove dust and debris from the switch stems and contacts. Additionally, the K95 Platinum’s switches are designed to be self-lubricating, eliminating the need for manual lubrication.
Are the K95 Platinum’s switches compatible with other Corsair keyboard models?
The Corsair K95 Platinum’s switches are proprietary to the K95 Platinum keyboard model. However, Corsair offers a range of keyboard models that feature Cherry MX switches, including the K95 RGB and the K70 RGB. These keyboards offer a similar typing experience to the K95 Platinum, although they may not offer the exact same features and customization options.
Users who are looking to upgrade or replace their existing Corsair keyboard may be able to use the K95 Platinum’s switches as a reference point when selecting a new keyboard. However, it’s important to note that the K95 Platinum’s switches are unique to this specific model and may not be compatible with other Corsair keyboard models.