With the release of the CORSAIR K70 MAX, we’re unveiling our new MGX magnetic-mechanical key switches.
Out of the box, you’d be forgiven for thinking this keyboard simply had standard linear mechanical switches, however, there is more here than meets the eye, or the finger. So, let’s take a closer look to find out what’s going on.
To answer this question comprehensively, we’ll first have to have a quick lesson on traditional key switch mechanics, this way, the differences will be clearer.
In a normal keyswitch, there are two conductive metal contacts that are held apart when the switch is at idle. When the switch is pressed, these plates are brought into contact with each other, which completes an electrical circuit, registering the keypress.
Our MGX switches work completely differently. There are no metal plates touching to complete a circuit, instead we use a magnet. This works because there is a sensor at the bottom of the switch that can tell how far away the magnet is very accurately. Once the magnet reaches a pre-determined distance, the keypress is registered.
You can probably see where this is going, because the actuation point is determined by a moving magnet and not a physical mechanism, you can decide on a per-key basis where you want the actuation point to be. This is the main feature of the MGX switches, but that’s not all.
For the mechanical keyboard fans out there, the specs are paramount, so here’s what you can look forward to from the MGX switches, tactility-wise.
So, out of the box, these feel just like regular linear key switches, but they are hiding some fun stuff. You can adjust the actuation point in 0.1mm increments per key via iCUE, but another benefit of the magnetic design is that you can have more than one actuation point.
That’s right folks, with normal key switches, you press them down until they actuate, and that’s the entire functionality. With the CORSAIR MGX switches, however, you can set another actuation point, and bind it to another function entirely. All of this can be done for each individual key via iCUE, but why would you want to? Where’s the real-world benefit?
Well, consider an FPS game as an example. Typically, you walk with W, and if you want to sprint you hold Shift at the same time. With MGX switches, however, you could set it so pressing W to the first actuation point is walk, and the second is sprint. The same goes for crouching and going prone. This is cool for newer PC gamers who come from the console world, as most controllers work similarly.
Seeing as choosing our own actuation point, and indeed having the ability to add a second one is unfamiliar territory, here's a quick guide on how to do it.
You can also set the reset point in 0.1mm increments, just as long as it's above the actuation point, so you really can tailor this keyboard on a key-by-key basis to perfectly customize it to your own personal requirements and preferences. But what about that second actuation point?
For those of you short on time, here’s some quick-fire queries about the MGX switches.
Which keyboards come with MGX switches?
At present, MGX switches are only available with the new K70 MAX, however, maybe they'll make their way into other keyboards in the future.
Are MGX switches Hotswappable?
Not currently. At time of writing the MGX switches are only available in the CORSAIR K70 MAX, but that could change in the future.
Are MGX switches compatible with 3rd party keycaps?
Yes. The switches themselves have the same dimensions as traditional Cherry MX-style keyswitches, including the crucible section. So, if you’ve got a set of fancy custom PBT keycaps that you’re particularly keen on, they will fit on the CORSAIR MGX switches.
Do I need software to change the actuation point?
Yes. The ability to have two separate actuation points and the capability to change them is controlled by software. You can't physically adjust them. So, if you want to take advantage of the MGX switches to their full extent, you’ll need to download iCUE.
Are the MGX switches RGB?
CORSAIR MGX switches don’t contain their own LED like some switches do, however, the housing is translucent. Additionally, there is a gap going straight through the switch covered by a transparent panel. This allows the RGB LEDs mounted to the circuit board of the K70 MAX to shine through unimpeded.
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