Frequently Asked Questions

Which switch is best for typing?

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The best switch for typing depends on your preferred feel, feedback, and sound.

Linear switches provide a smooth and consistent keypress without a noticeable tactile bump. They are a good choice for users who prefer a lighter, uninterrupted typing feel.
Tactile switches provide a noticeable bump during the keypress, giving you physical feedback when typing. They are often preferred by users who like a more defined typing experience.
Clicky switches provide tactile feedback along with an audible click. They may suit users who enjoy a more pronounced and audible typing experience.

There is no single switch that is best for everyone. When choosing a switch for typing, consider the actuation feel, operating force, sound level, and overall typing preference.

Which switch is best for gaming?

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The best switch for gaming depends on your preferred key feel, actuation force, and the type of games you play.

Linear switches provide a smooth and consistent keypress with no tactile bump. They are commonly preferred for fast and repeated inputs.
Tactile switches provide a noticeable bump during the keypress, offering more physical feedback. They can be suitable for players who prefer a more defined key response.
Clicky switches combine tactile feedback with an audible click. They can provide a distinct typing and gaming feel but may be less suitable for shared or quiet environments.
Magnetic switches use magnetic sensing and, on supported keyboards, can offer features such as adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger, giving users more control over key response.

For fast-paced gaming, consider switches that provide a smooth, consistent response or adjustable key actuation, depending on your preferences and the features supported by your keyboard.

In simple terms, linear switches offer smooth input, tactile switches provide physical feedback, clicky switches add audible feedback, and magnetic switches can provide additional control over key response.

What is the difference between linear, tactile, and clicky switches?

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The main difference is the feel and feedback you get when pressing a key.

Linear switches – Provide a smooth and consistent keypress from top to bottom, without a noticeable tactile bump or click. They are often preferred for smooth, fast inputs.
Tactile switches – Provide a noticeable bump during the keypress, giving you physical feedback when the key reaches its actuation point.
Clicky switches – Provide both a tactile bump and a distinct audible click, offering more noticeable feedback with each keypress.

In simple terms:

Linear = smooth
Tactile = bump feedback
Clicky = bump + click

The right choice depends on your preferred typing feel, sound level, and usage environment.

What is the difference between mechanical and magnetic switches?

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The main difference is how the switch detects a key press.

Mechanical switches use physical contacts to register a key press. They are available in different types, such as linear, tactile, and clicky, offering different typing feels and sounds.
Magnetic switches use a magnet and sensor to detect the key’s position without relying on traditional physical contact points. This allows the keyboard to detect more precise changes in key movement.

Depending on the keyboard and software, magnetic switches can support features such as adjustable actuation and Rapid Trigger (RT), giving users more control over key response.

In simple terms, mechanical switches detect key presses through physical contacts, while magnetic switches detect key movement through magnetic sensing.

Are AULA keyboards hot-swappable?

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Many AULA keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing you to replace compatible switches without soldering. For example, models such as the F65, F75, F99, and F108 feature hot-swappable switch sockets.

However, hot-swap compatibility varies by model. Before replacing switches, check the specifications of your specific AULA keyboard to confirm whether it supports hot-swapping and which switch types are compatible.

In simple terms, if your AULA keyboard supports hot-swapping, you can change compatible switches without soldering.

Can I replace the switches on my AULA keyboard?

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You can replace the switches on an AULA keyboard if the specific model supports hot-swapping.

For a hot-swappable keyboard, compatible switches can be removed and installed without soldering. Before replacing the switches, check your keyboard’s specifications to confirm:

Whether the keyboard supports hot-swapping
Which switch types are compatible
Whether the replacement switches have the correct pin configuration and size

Use a suitable switch puller when removing switches and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the switch sockets or PCB.

In simple terms, you can replace the switches on a hot-swappable AULA keyboard, as long as the replacement switches are compatible with your model.

Do I need a hot-swappable keyboard to replace switches?

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Not necessarily, but a hot-swappable keyboard makes replacing switches much easier.

Hot-swappable keyboard: Compatible switches can be removed and installed without soldering.
Non-hot-swappable keyboard: The switches are usually soldered directly to the PCB, so replacing them requires desoldering the existing switches and soldering the new ones.

If you plan to change switches regularly, a hot-swappable keyboard is the more convenient option.

In simple terms, you do not need a hot-swappable keyboard to replace switches, but you do need soldering work if the switches are soldered to the PCB.

Are AULA switches compatible with other keyboards?

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AULA switches may be compatible with other keyboards, but compatibility depends on the switch type and the keyboard’s socket.

Mechanical switches: AULA 3-pin/5-pin mechanical switches can generally be used with keyboards that support the corresponding MX-style mechanical switch format. For example, AULA’s mechanical keyboards such as the F75 Ultra support 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
Magnetic switches: AULA Hall Effect magnetic switches are only compatible with keyboards that support the same magnetic switch system and compatible sensor/footprint. They are not interchangeable with standard mechanical switches. Some AULA magnetic models also specify particular compatible magnetic switch families.

Before installing an AULA switch in another keyboard, check the switch type, pin configuration, physical footprint, and socket compatibility of both the switch and keyboard.

In simple terms, AULA mechanical switches may work with compatible MX-style hot-swap keyboards, while AULA magnetic switches require a compatible Hall Effect keyboard system.

What is the difference between 3-pin and 5-pin switches?

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The main difference is the number of pins used to position and support the switch on the PCB.

3-pin switches have two metal contact pins and one plastic center pin. They rely more on the keyboard plate for stability.
5-pin switches have the same two metal contact pins plus three plastic pins. The additional plastic pins provide more stability when the switch is mounted directly to the PCB.

Both types can provide a similar typing experience when used in a compatible keyboard.

A 5-pin switch can often be used on a 3-pin PCB by removing the two extra plastic positioning pins, while a 3-pin switch may feel less secure on a PCB designed to use the additional positioning pins.

In simple terms, 3-pin switches use fewer positioning pins, while 5-pin switches provide additional PCB-mounted stability. Always check your keyboard's socket and PCB compatibility before installing switches.

What is the difference between standard and low-profile switches?

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The main difference is the height, key travel, and overall design of the switch.

Standard switches are taller and generally offer longer key travel. They are commonly used with traditional mechanical keyboards and provide a familiar mechanical typing feel.
Low-profile switches are shorter and designed for slimmer keyboards. They typically have shorter key travel and a more compact feel.

Low-profile switches are often preferred for slim desk setups, portability, and users who prefer shorter key travel, while standard switches offer a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience.

In simple terms, standard switches are taller with longer travel, while low-profile switches are shorter with a more compact design.

How do I replace keyboard switches safely?

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If your keyboard supports hot-swapping, you can replace compatible switches without soldering. Follow these steps:

Turn off and disconnect the keyboard before replacing any switches.
Remove the keycap using a keycap puller to access the switch.
Use a switch puller to grip the switch from the top and gently release it from the hot-swap socket.
Check the replacement switch and make sure its pins are straight and compatible with your keyboard.
Align the pins with the socket and press the switch straight down until it is fully seated.
Reinstall the keycap and test the key after reconnecting the keyboard.

Avoid twisting or forcing the switch. Excessive force can bend the pins or damage the hot-swap socket or PCB.

In simple terms, disconnect the keyboard, remove the switch carefully, align the replacement switch correctly, and never force it into the socket.

What should I do if a switch feels loose or inconsistent?

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If a switch feels loose, wobbly, or behaves inconsistently, try the following:

Remove and reinstall the switch to make sure it is fully seated in the socket.
Check the switch pins for bending or damage. Straighten bent pins carefully before reinstalling.
Check the hot-swap socket for visible damage or looseness.
Test the switch in another compatible socket, if available. This can help determine whether the issue is with the switch or the keyboard.
replace the switch if the switch itself is damaged or continues to behave inconsistently.

Do not force the switch into the socket, as excessive pressure can damage the switch, hot-swap socket, or PCB.

If the issue remains after troubleshooting, contact AULA Support for further assistance.

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