Typing & Keyboard Glossary
Everything you need to know about typing speed, mechanical keyboard switches, and hardware terminology.
Typing Metrics
WPM (Words Per Minute)
A measurement of typing speed. In standard typing tests, a 'word' is defined as exactly 5 keystrokes (including spaces). Gross WPM is raw speed, while Net WPM penalizes for uncorrected errors.
Hardware
N-Key Rollover (NKRO)
The ability of a keyboard to correctly register every single key pressed simultaneously. Cheaper keyboards suffer from 'ghosting' and might only support 2KRO or 6KRO.
Switches
Linear Switch
A mechanical keyboard switch with a smooth, consistent keystroke from top to bottom, without any tactile bump or click. E.g., Cherry MX Red. Preferred by gamers for rapid double-tapping.
Tactile Switch
A mechanical switch that produces a noticeable physical 'bump' halfway through the keypress, letting you know the key has actuated without needing to bottom out. E.g., Cherry MX Brown. Preferred by typists.
Clicky Switch
Similar to a tactile switch, but it also produces a loud, audible 'click' sound upon actuation. E.g., Cherry MX Blue.
Hardware Specs
Actuation Force
The amount of weight (usually measured in centinewtons or grams-force) required to press a key down far enough for the keyboard to register the keystroke. Typical range is 45g to 60g.
Polling Rate
How often the keyboard reports its state to the computer, measured in Hertz (Hz). A 1000Hz polling rate means the keyboard reports 1000 times per second (1ms latency).
Typing Technique
Bottom Out
Pressing a key all the way down until it hits the metal or plastic plate underneath. Advanced typists using tactile switches often learn not to bottom out to save time and reduce finger fatigue.
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