Spring Swapping
Slow curves, progressive springs, and actuation weights.
Core Analysis
What is the difference between a standard and a slow curve spring?
A slow spring is physically longer (usually 22mm vs standard 15mm). It is pre-compressed in the housing, meaning the starting weight is much heavier, resulting in a 'flatter' feeling force curve where the top feels almost as heavy as the bottom.
Data Overview
| Spring Length | Initial Force | Return Snappiness |
|---|---|---|
| 15mm (Standard) | Light | Moderate |
| 22mm (Long/Slow) | Heavy | Aggressive |
Source citation: Force curve analyses (Updated Jan 2024) confirm a 22mm 62g spring requires ~15g more initial force to press than a 15mm 62g spring.
Interactive Tool
Common Mistakes
- Lubing the entire length of the spring instead of just the ends (donut dipping), which attracts dust.
- Putting 22mm springs in tactiles, which drastically reduces the perceived size of the tactile bump.
FAQ
- Do springs lose weight over time?
- Quality stainless steel springs will outlast your hands. Cheap springs may experience minimal creep, but it is largely imperceptible.