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MrBlackoc
4
May 9, 2018
As a newcomer to this hobby, i would need to purchase cherry mx red with RGB for this to work? Would it sync with the backlighting of the board?
passerby_92
69
May 9, 2018
MrBlackocWhatever switches you'd like to buy for this, make sure the case is transparent so that the backlight can shine through the whole switch. Standard Cherry MX switches, for example, are totally black and only have a small slit through which light can shine through, so they're not ideal for backlit keyboards like this one. RGB Cherry MX switches, however, have totally translucent shells. That's why they're RGB - there's no special electronics on the switch involved.
All of this being said, you don't need to buy any switches if you get this drop with the keycaps and switches. Not only that, but Cherry switches are overall pretty mediocre compared to other MX switch manufacturers' offerings these days. All of the switches in this drop are almost assuredly better than their Cherry equivalent, so just pick the linear option (Kailh Speed Silver) and enjoy. I encourage you to look up switches in case you'd like something different from what this drop provides, but still want the stock keycaps. Here's a place to start: https://input.club/the-comparative-guide-to-mechanical-switches/
AwesomelyBad
44
May 9, 2018
MrBlackocThe only thing you’ll need to look for in any MX compatible switch you choose for the board is whether it has a clear switch housing or a window for the backlighting on the board to shine through; for Cherry brand switches, that’s what the RGB denotes. The non-RGB cherry switches have a black switch housing that would completely block the backlight.
if you want linear switches for the board, then Cherry MX Red RGB switches would work. This page has an example image of the difference between the normal and RGB versions of a Cherry switch: https://m.hexus.net/tech/news/peripherals/85265-cherry-mx-silent-mechanical-keyswitches-launched/
MrBlackoc
4
May 9, 2018
passerby_92Hey thanks alot for the quick crash course
MrBlackoc
4
May 9, 2018
passerby_92Thanks for the info highly appreciated.
What wouldbe the difference between this and let's say a GK64. Like o said fairly new at this and looking up options!
passerby_92
69
May 9, 2018
MrBlackocThe GK64 doesn't use QMK. It uses a closed-source firmware that's infamously crap. I think it uses the same long-lasting Kailh hot-swap sockets but basically everything else is not as nice. LEDs have a lower refresh rate, less USB-C ports, case options aren't as slid, translucent keycaps aren't as good, support is spottier, no option for Halo switches, and probably a few other things I haven't mentioned. A full everything-but-switches iGK64 is cheaper, even with an aluminum case, but it won't be as ~premium~ as this, and you'll still have to find good switches which will probably make the price damn near equal depending on what kind of sales/import taxes you're looking at through Massdrop.
MrBlackoc
4
May 9, 2018
passerby_92Nice. Good to know. Thank you :) will probably get in on this.
MrBlackoc
4
May 9, 2018
passerby_92Last thing. Whats the difference between Serialized or not?? Does it affect price?
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