Traditional Rapid Trigger vs. Continuous Rapid Trigger — Which Is Best for Your Gaming Keyboard?
When milliseconds matter in gaming, Rapid Trigger (RT) technology is one of the most important features you can have in a keyboard. Found in high-end magnetic switch keyboards, RT lets keys reset instantly without requiring a full release — perfect for strafing, quick taps, and precise movements.
But now there’s an enhanced version: Continuous Rapid Trigger (Continuous RT). While it sounds similar, the way it handles your key travel is slightly different — and that difference only matters in certain setups.
How Traditional Rapid Trigger Works
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When you press a key, it activates once you pass the actuation point.
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The RT function is only active between the actuation point and the bottom of the switch.
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If you move back above the actuation point, the key resets and must pass the threshold again before re-triggering.
In other words, traditional RT keeps the key “ready,” but only within that actuation-to-bottom range.
How Continuous Rapid Trigger Changes Things
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Like RT, CRT activates when you pass the actuation point.
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The difference is that CRT then stays active over the entire range of key travel until you fully release the key.
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This means you can trigger the key again even if you’re still above the actuation point, as long as the key isn’t fully released.
This extended “ready zone” makes CRT especially useful for micro-adjustments and small repeat presses.
⚡ Rapid Trigger Technology Comparison
Traditional Rapid Trigger
Zone
(Above Reset)
Trigger
Zone
How it works:
- Only detects changes below actuation point
- Stops triggering once reset above actuation
- Must Press to action point to re-trigger
- Clear trigger/no-trigger boundary
Continuous Rapid Trigger
Trigger
Zone
(Full Travel)
How it works:
- Detects position changes throughout entire travel
- Any downward movement can trigger a new keypress, while upward movement only stops the activation and does not create a new input.
- Instant response at any position
- Provides higher sensitivity and speed
When Does CRT Actually Matter?
It comes down to where you set your actuation point:
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At Top actuation points → RT already behaves like CRT, because there’s no “room” above the actuation point for CRT’s extended range to apply.
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At mid to lower range actuation points (e.g., 2mm) → CRT creates a buffer zone above the actuation threshold, giving you space to press lightly and still retrigger without fully passing back through actuation.
So in practice:
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Top actuation = RT and CRT feel almost identical.
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Mid to lower range actuation = CRT offers more flexibility and smoother repeat triggering.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Rapid Trigger | Continuous Rapid Trigger |
| Active zone | Between actuation point and bottom-out | Entire range until full release |
| Behavior at 0.1mm actuation | Behaves like CRT | Behaves like RT |
| Best use case | Fast tapping, predictable reset timing | Micro-adjustments, flexible repeated actuation |
Final Thoughts
Both Traditional RT and Continuous RT deliver faster input and more precise control than mechanical switches, but the difference really depends on how you configure your actuation point.
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Traditional RT: Best if you want predictable resets and a tighter actuation-to-reset range.
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Continuous RT: In most situations, the better option — offering smoother repeat presses, more flexibility, and consistent responsiveness across the entire travel range.
