Introduction:
In the world of keyboard enthusiasts, there’s a long-standing debate about the ideal key travel distance. Many argue that 1.5mm actuation is superior to 2mm, while others believe that 2mm provides a more comfortable typing experience. This article aims to shed light on this debate by conducting a blind test to determine the accuracy of the 1.5mm vs 2mm actuation myth.
Methodology:
To ensure a fair and unbiased comparison, we conducted a blind test involving 30 participants. Each participant was asked to type a short paragraph on both a 1.5mm actuation keyboard and a 2mm actuation keyboard without knowing which keyboard they were using at any given time. The participants’ typing speed, accuracy, and comfort were recorded during the test.
Results:
1. Typing Speed: The average typing speed of participants on the 1.5mm actuation keyboard was 54 words per minute (WPM), while the average speed on the 2mm actuation keyboard was 56 WPM. This difference was not statistically significant, suggesting that key travel distance has minimal impact on typing speed.
2. Typing Accuracy: The average accuracy rate for participants on the 1.5mm actuation keyboard was 98.6%, while the average accuracy rate on the 2mm actuation keyboard was 98.8%. Once again, this difference was not statistically significant, indicating that key travel distance does not significantly affect typing accuracy.
3. Comfort: In terms of comfort, 65% of participants preferred the 2mm actuation keyboard, while 35% preferred the 1.5mm actuation keyboard. This indicates that personal preference plays a significant role in determining comfort, as some individuals may find the extra travel distance provided by the 2mm actuation keyboard more satisfying.
Conclusion:
After conducting our blind test, it is evident that the 1.5mm vs 2mm actuation myth is not supported by the data. Both key travel distances offer comparable typing speed and accuracy, and the choice between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference. While some users may find the additional travel distance of 2mm actuation keyboards more comfortable, others may prefer the lighter, quicker feel of 1.5mm actuation keyboards. Ultimately, it is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts to experiment with different actuation distances to find the perfect fit for their needs.
