What is a Scissor Switch?

Last Updated : 15 Apr, 2024

Scissor Switch: A scissor switch is a specific type of keyboard mechanism that is often found in laptops and some low-profile keyboards. It consists of two interlocking plastic pieces that look like scissors, positioned beneath each keycap. When you press a key, these pieces compress and expand in a scissor-like motion, ensuring a stable and consistent keypress. One of the main benefits of scissor switches is their shallow key travel, which is less than that of traditional mechanical switches. This makes the keys quieter and easier to press, which can lead to quicker typing and less strain on your fingers.

Additionally, scissor switches tend to be more durable than the rubber dome switches commonly used in many keyboards, and their enclosed structure helps prevent debris accumulation, making them easier to maintain. Their compact and efficient design makes scissor switches especially popular in space-saving applications like laptops, and their quiet operation makes them ideal for use in shared or public environments.

How Scissor Switches Work?

Scissor switches are popular for their smooth typing experience and compact form factor, often found in laptops and low-profile keyboards. Let us understand it by working with the proper steps:

Scissor Switch

The process begins with the keycap, which is the part of the keyboard you press. In a scissor switch, the keycap is mounted directly on top of a scissor-like mechanism. The scissor mechanism consists of two interlocking plastic or metal pieces that form an “X” shape, which is why they are called “scissor” switches. These pieces are typically connected at the center where they pivot.

Operations in a Scissor Switch

Here are the operations used in a Scissor Switch –

Pressing a Key:

Inside the keyboard, each key has a set of interlocking arms arranged in an “X” shape, known as the scissor mechanism. When you press a key, these arms slide across each other, moving from a raised position to a flat position.
Compression of Rubber Dome: Directly beneath the scissor mechanism is a rubber dome. The sliding arms press down on this dome, squashing it. This rubber dome provides the resistance or the “feel” you get when pressing the key. It’s also responsible for pushing the key back up when you let go.

Creating an Electrical Signal:

Under the rubber dome, there’s a layer called the membrane circuit. Compressing the rubber dome causes it to press down on this circuit, which triggers specific contact points to connect. This connection completes an electrical circuit.
Sending the Signal: Once the circuit is completed, it generates an electrical signal that identifies which key was pressed. This signal is processed by the keyboard’s electronics and sent to the computer, letting it know what you typed.

Releasing a Key:

Keycap Movement: When you release the key, the built-in tension in the compressed rubber dome acts like a spring, pushing the keycap back up to its original position.
Resetting Scissor Mechanism: At the same time, the arms of the scissor mechanism slide back to their original crossed or “X” formation, lifting the keycap to where it started.

This system makes scissor-switch keyboards thin, responsive, and quieter than many other types of keyboards, making them popular in offices and laptops

Advantages of Scissor Switches

Scissor switches offer several advantages that make them popular, especially in environments where space and noise are concerns –

1. Low Profile: One of the primary benefits of scissor switches is their low-profile design. This makes them ideal for laptops and ultra-portable devices where space is at a premium. The reduced height of the switches contributes to thinner and more compact keyboards.

2. Quieter: Scissor switches make less noise when you type. This is useful in quiet environments like libraries or offices where you don’t want to disturb others.

3. Smooth Typing: The way scissor switches are designed allows for a smooth and even typing experience, which can be more comfortable, especially if you type a lot.

Disadvantages of Scissor Switches

Scissor switches also come with a few drawbacks –

1. Less Tactile Feedback: They don’t provide as much of a “clicky” feel as mechanical switches, which can be less satisfying for some users who prefer a more pronounced feedback when typing.

2. Difficult Repairs: Because of their complex structure, scissor switches are often harder to fix. If one breaks, it can be challenging and expensive to replace, sometimes requiring the replacement of the entire keyboard.

3. Limited Customization: Unlike mechanical keyboards that allow users to change out keycaps and switches for different feels and responses, scissor switch keyboards typically don’t offer this flexibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, scissor-switch keyboards are a popular choice for many due to their low-profile design and quiet operation. These keyboards feature a unique scissor mechanism that allows for smoother and more stable typing, making them ideal for environments where space is limited and noise reduction is desired. While they offer several benefits such as enhanced portability and comfort, they do have some drawbacks like lower tactile feedback and durability concerns. Overall, scissor switches are an excellent choice for users seeking a modern, sleek keyboard that blends functionality with a compact, user-friendly design.