Magnetic keyboards are a fascinating innovation in the field of mechanical keyboards. They offer a number of advantages over traditional mechanical keyboards, including improved durability and more precise typing. Two of the most well-known technologies in this field are TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) and HE ( Hall Effect ) . In this article, we take a look at how TMR works and the benefits this technology offers to keyboard users.
What is TMR?
TMR, or Tunnel Magnetoresistance, is a technology based on the principle that the resistance of a material changes when it is exposed to a magnetic field. This change in resistance can be used to detect precise inputs. In TMR technology, a magnetic field is generated when a key is pressed and the resistance is changed accordingly. This change is detected by a sensor and converted into a key press.
Some benefits of TMR include:
- Higher precision: TMR sensors are very sensitive and provide more precise registration of key inputs.
- Longer durability: Because there are no physical contacts, TMR switches are less susceptible to wear and tear and offer a longer service life.
- Faster response time: TMR switches can detect input faster and provide a faster response time, which is especially beneficial for gaming.
TMR vs. HE: The most important differences
| feature | TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) | Hall effect (HE) |
| functional principle | The resistance changes due to a magnetic field that influences the flow of current through metal layers. | Voltage is generated by charge deviation under a magnetic field. |
| sensitivity | Higher sensitivity, detects weak magnetic fields with high resolution. | Generally lower compared to TMR, requires strong magnetic fields for detection. |
| accuracy | More precise and offers higher resolution. | Less precise, usually requires calibration. |
| temperature stability | Stable over a wide temperature range, unaffected by temperature changes. | Performance decreases with temperature changes. |
| electricity consumption | Low, suitable for battery-operated devices. | Higher, especially with continuous monitoring. |
| technology | More complex and demanding, used in high-performance applications. | Simpler and more widely used. |
| Cost | More expensive due to complex manufacturing. | Usually cheaper. |
| applications | Used in gaming controllers and now in keyboards like the FUN60 Ultra for high precision. | Commonly used in keyboards, reliable but less advanced. |
1. Functional principle
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): In TMR, the resistance of a material changes when it is exposed to a magnetic field. This change in resistance affects the flow of current through the metal layers of the sensor, allowing for precise detection of the input. The magnetic field is used to determine the position of the button without the need for physical contact. This results in a very accurate measurement and a faster response.
Hall Effect (HE): The Hall Effect is based on the change in voltage that occurs when an electric current flows through a conductive material that is exposed to a magnetic field. This voltage (called the Hall voltage) is directly proportional to the strength of the magnetic field. When a key is pressed, the magnetic field changes, creating a change in voltage that is then detected as a key input.
2. Sensitivity
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): TMR offers high sensitivity and is able to detect very weak magnetic fields with high precision. This technology is particularly suitable for applications that require exact input data, such as gaming or high-precision tasks where even the smallest change must be registered.
Hall Effect (HE): Compared to TMR, the sensitivity of the Hall Effect tends to be lower. Hall Effect switches require a stronger magnetic field to detect an input, which can result in less fine sensing of inputs. This makes the Hall Effect less ideal for applications where extreme precision is required.
3. Accuracy
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): TMR offers particularly high accuracy because the technology is able to measure even the smallest changes in the magnetic field with high resolution. This precision makes TMR switches particularly suitable for applications that require fast response times and precise inputs, such as gaming or working with precise input devices.
Hall Effect (HE): Hall effect switches are typically less precise than TMR technology and often require calibration to achieve optimal performance. This technology may be sufficient for general applications, but does not provide the same precision as TMR switches.
4. Temperature stability
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): TMR switches are temperature stable and can operate reliably over a wide temperature range. They are not sensitive to temperature changes, which makes them particularly robust and durable. This stability is particularly advantageous for use in environments with fluctuating temperatures or in devices that must function consistently over longer periods of time.
Hall Effect (HE): The performance of Hall effect switches can degrade with temperature changes. Extreme temperatures can affect the electrical resistance and therefore the accuracy and responsiveness of the switches. Therefore, Hall effect switches may be less reliable in applications with widely varying temperatures.
5. Power consumption
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): TMR switches consume little power, making them particularly suitable for battery-powered devices such as wireless keyboards or portable gaming controllers. This low energy consumption contributes to longer battery life without compromising performance.
Hall Effect (HE): Hall effect switches generally consume more power, especially when continuous monitoring or a fast response time is required. This higher energy consumption can reduce battery life in portable devices, making Hall effect technology less suitable for devices that do not rely on a constant power supply.
6. Technology
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): TMR technology is more complex and requires more advanced manufacturing techniques. It is often used in high-performance applications where precision and high response speed are required. This technology is more complex and expensive, but offers significantly improved performance in specialized applications.
Hall Effect (HE): Hall effect switches are simpler and less complex, which is why they are widely used in a wide variety of devices. This technology is often used in everyday applications where the demands for precision and performance are not quite as high. It is less expensive and is often used in standard keyboards and other devices.
7. Costs
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): Due to the advanced technology and more complex manufacturing, TMR switches are usually more expensive than Hall Effect switches. The higher price reflects the superior precision and higher performance that this technology offers.
Hall Effect (HE): Hall effect switches are typically less expensive because the manufacturing technology is less complex. The lower production costs make them an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers or for devices where the highest precision is not required.
8. Applications
TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance): TMR technology is increasingly used in high-precision devices such as gaming controllers and keyboards such as the FUN60 Ultra. Due to the higher precision and better response time, TMR is particularly suitable for applications where fast and precise inputs are important.
Hall Effect (HE): Hall Effect switches are commonly found in standard keyboards and are widely used due to their reliability. They offer good performance but are not as advanced as TMR switches. This technology is ideal for everyday applications where maximum precision and speed are less important.
Application of TMR technology in keyboards – FUN60 Ultra TMR version
The FUN60 Ultra is the first magnetic keyboard equipped with TMR technology and can be considered the best choice for competitive gaming as it offers excellent performance even in wireless mode.
The TMR sensor can precisely detect and measure very weak magnetic field changes. This means that the FUN60 Ultra TMR keyboard can detect keystrokes even more accurately, providing a smoother and more precise typing experience.
At the same time, the TMR sensor has low power consumption. TMR keyboards not only offer higher performance and a better user experience, but also ensure lower power consumption. This means that the FUN60 series offers longer battery life while maintaining high performance - ideal for competitive gaming in wireless conditions.
What should you choose?
The choice between TMR and HE ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and requirements. If you're looking for a keyboard that's extremely precise and responsive, TMR technology might be a better choice for you. However, if you're looking for a keyboard with excellent durability and consistently good performance, then a Hall Effect switch is an excellent choice.
Both technologies offer remarkable performance and can significantly improve your keyboard experience. When you choose a magnetic keyboard, you can be sure that you will benefit from a durable and highly precise solution.
Conclusion
TMR technology is gradually changing the world of gaming keyboards. If you are looking for the best performance, you should definitely try a keyboard with TMR technology.
As the application of TMR technology in keyboards continues to grow and evolve, we can expect many more innovative and impressive products in the future.
