In the last couple weeks, we’ve seen an arms race between keyboard manufacturers. Razer began the controversy by releasing their Snap Tap technology which seemed to fall into a grey area of the rules, shortly followed by Wooting’s own offering of Rappy Snappy. Both change the way your keyboard passes inputs to your computer, but how exactly do they work? In this blog post, we’ll explain how these features function, and what it means for Counter-Strike players.

What is Snap Tap?

Razer’s “Snap Tap” is their own implementation of something called SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions), better known in the CS world as “null binds.” A null bind typically refers to a special bind created with console commands that makes you unable to input multiple keys simultaneously. These binds, or “nulls,” can be applied to any keys, but are typically only applied to movement keys, specifically those that are used for (counter) strafing.

When a player cannot pass both the A and D inputs at the same time, only one or the other, the result is frame-perfect counter-strafes every time.

Snap Tap allows the user to configure keys on their keyboard in this manner on whichever keys they desire, within the Razer Synapse software.

What is Rappy Snappy?

“Rappy Snappy” is Wooting’s take on an SOCD implementation in a keyboard. It’s not the same as Snap Tap, and doesn’t function like a null bind. Rappy Snappy does “null” overlapping input between keys, but instead of doing this based on key actuation, it’s based on how deep the key is pressed. In other words, the SOCD only kicks in when the user presses the other key down further than the last input.

What’s the difference between Rappy Snappy and Snap Tap?

In CS2 terms, let’s say for instance, you were peeking out from behind cover using the D key, and execute a counter-strafe using A. The moment A is pressed further down than D, the D input signal is withheld, resulting in a “more” perfect counter-strafe. This is the key difference between Rappy Snappy and Snap Tap. Snap Tap will withhold signal no matter how far either key is pressed because it functions upon actuation, while Rappy Snappy withholds signal based on key travel.

Wooting has since added full SOCD implementation into their keyboards, meaning users can now set their keyboards to withhold signal based on actuation, just like Snap Tap. Rappy Snappy is still available as well and can be used instead if the user desires.

What it means for Counter-Strike players

Counter-Strike 2 is a game of precision and milliseconds. Every little detail matters, especially at the highest level of competition. At the time of writing, SOCD implementations in hardware are allowed for use on platforms like FACEIT and ESEA, as well as at the professional level with ESL.

Peripheral manufacturers will continue to push boundaries and blur the line between cheating and technology. There’s no guarantee that these features will be allowed in future competitions. One thing is for sure though: there’s no substitute for training. No matter how much money you spend on your setup, you still need to put in the time to improve.

We’ve just launched the Intermediate and Advanced levels of the Refrag Bootcamp Exams. These exams put your game to the test, and are a great measure of skill. You’ll be put through a series of training sets that hone your aim and utility for whichever map you desire. Refrag Bootcamp is available for subscribers of any tier, so there’s no excuse to start your Bootcamp journey.