Cherry MX Brown switch revisited….

After exploring the Topre switches, it’s kind of nice to come back to a switch that’s familiar and comfortable to use.  I have grown to appreciate the Topre switch, but also time for me to reflect on some of the other types that I have liked thus far and help me reexamine why I like them more than others that are around.  Brown is simply the champion right now.  However, the Topre and Matias quiet click have given me sufficient reasons to take another look.

The Matias quiet is really complex tactile switch that reached back to the heydays of ALPS switch.  The ALPS switches were really popular with Mac crowd.  I didn’t have the privilege of using the Apple Extended Keyboard as much as I should have, just like the Model M, but I have heard they are great.  Different from the classic Model M, but shined in its own way.

So, how does the MX brown stand up to those challengers.  I think it stood up pretty well.  For one thing, there’s really not much I dislike about the switch and lot for me to like.  Topre’s smoothness is legendary and Brown’s a little scratchy tactile feedback is just fine for someone like me.  It doesn’t bother me at all.  It’s not too loud, but has enough auditory cue for me to know what’s going on with the switch operation.  It doesn’t have the melodic songs ringing out from Model M.  Instead it’s kind of chirpy rather than out right songs.  It doesn’t have a complex tactile sensation like the Matias, but enough to let me know what’s going on.  I do appreciate these little things.  It’s one of the most popular switches, and Cherry is definitely doing something right.  Yes, it’s not for everyone, but it’s a generalist that’s good enough for most use cases.  Topre, Model M and Matias are specialists that cater to certain groups.  I would like to examine that concept a bit more closely later on.  For now, the Das Keyboard with Cherry MX brown switches is here to stay because it really does offer a really good overall package.