Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience compared to traditional membrane keyboards. One of the most important components of a mechanical keyboard is the switch. There are many different types of mechanical keyboard switches available, each with their own unique characteristics. In this article, we’ll explore detailed reviews of the most popular mechanical keyboard switches, their features, and which one is right for you.
Types of Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Cherry MX
Cherry MX switches are perhaps the most well-known and widely used mechanical keyboard switches. They were first introduced in 1983 and are still popular today. Cherry MX switches come in several different colors, each with a different actuation force and tactile feedback. The most common Cherry MX switches are:
- Cherry MX Red: Linear switch with a light 45g actuation force
- Cherry MX Brown: Tactile switch with a medium 55g actuation force
- Cherry MX Blue: Tactile and clicky switch with a medium 50g actuation force
- Cherry MX Black: Linear switch with a heavy 60g actuation force
- Cherry MX Silent Red: Similar to the Cherry MX Red, but with dampeners to reduce noise
Kailh
Kailh switches are another popular option for mechanical keyboards. They are similar to Cherry MX switches but are often more affordable. Kailh switches come in a variety of colors, including:
- Kailh Red: Linear switch with a light 50g actuation force
- Kailh Brown: Tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force
- Kailh Blue: Tactile and clicky switch with a medium 50g actuation force
- Kailh Black: Linear switch with a heavy 60g actuation force
- Kailh White: Tactile and clicky switch with a heavy 60g actuation force
Gateron
Gateron switches are similar to Cherry MX switches but are often smoother and have a lower price point. Gateron switches come in several colors, including:
- Gateron Red: Linear switch with a light 45g actuation force
- Gateron Brown: Tactile switch with a medium 55g actuation force
- Gateron Blue: Tactile and clicky switch with a medium 55g actuation force
- Gateron Black: Linear switch with a heavy 60g actuation force
- Gateron Yellow: Linear switch with a light 50g actuation force
Outemu
Outemu switches are a budget option for mechanical keyboards. They are often found in lower-end keyboards. Outemu switches come in a few colors, including:
- Outemu Red: Linear switch with a light 45g actuation force
- Outemu Brown: Tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force
- Outemu Blue: Tactile and clicky switch with a medium 50g actuation force
While Outemu switches may not be as smooth or durable as some of the more expensive options, they are a great entry-level choice for those looking to try out a mechanical keyboard without breaking the bank.
Razer
Razer switches are designed specifically for Razer keyboards and are known for their responsiveness and durability. Razer switches come in three different varieties:
- Razer Green: Tactile and clicky switch with a medium 50g actuation force
- Razer Orange: Tactile switch with a medium 45g actuation force
- Razer Yellow: Linear switch with a light 45g actuation force
Alps
Alps switches are a vintage switch that was popular in the 1980s and 1990s. They are known for their smoothness and are often found in older mechanical keyboards. Alps switches come in several colors, including:
- Alps Orange: Tactile switch with a light 45g actuation force
- Alps White: Tactile switch with a medium 55g actuation force
- Alps Black: Linear switch with a medium 55g actuation force
Topre
Topre switches are a unique type of mechanical switch that combines the benefits of a mechanical switch with the smoothness of a rubber dome switch. They are known for their exceptional typing experience and are often found in higher-end mechanical keyboards. Topre switches come in several colors, including:
- Topre 45g: Tactile switch with a light 45g actuation force
- Topre 55g: Tactile switch with a medium 55g actuation force
- Topre 30g: Tactile switch with an ultra-light 30g actuation force
Switch Characteristics
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are several characteristics to consider:
Actuation Force
The actuation force is the amount of force required to register a keypress. Lighter switches require less force and are better for fast typists, while heavier switches require more force and are better for gamers.
Actuation Point
The actuation point is the distance the key must travel before a keystroke is registered. Some switches have a shorter actuation point, which can result in faster typing and gaming.
Travel Distance
The travel distance is the distance the key must travel before bottoming out. Some switches have a shorter travel distance, which can result in faster typing and gaming.
Sound
Mechanical keyboard switches can be loud, especially those with a tactile and clicky feedback. If you’re working in a shared space or prefer a quieter typing experience, look for switches with a lower sound profile.
Which Switch is Right for You?
The right switch for you will depend on your typing or gaming preferences. If you’re a fast typist, you may prefer a lighter switch with a shorter actuation point. If you’re a gamer, you may prefer a heavier switch with a longer travel distance. It’s important to consider the characteristics of each switch and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch is an important decision that can greatly impact your typing or gaming experience. By understanding the characteristics of each switch, you can make an informed decision and find the switch that is right for you.
FAQs
Q: Can I replace the switches on my mechanical keyboard? A: Yes, it is possible to replace the switches on a mechanical keyboard. However, the process can be challenging, and it requires some technical skills and knowledge.
Q: Are all mechanical keyboard switches compatible with all keyboards? A: No, not all mechanical keyboard switches are compatible with all keyboards. Some keyboards have specific requirements, such as switch size or layout, which limit the compatibility of switches.
Q: Are there any other types of mechanical keyboard switches besides the ones mentioned in this article? A: Yes, there are many other types of mechanical keyboard switches besides the ones mentioned in the article. Some popular brands include Cherry, Kailh, and Gateron, each offering different switch characteristics.
Q: Are mechanical keyboards worth the investment? A: It depends on personal preferences and usage. Mechanical keyboards offer a tactile typing experience and can be more durable than other keyboard types. They may also improve typing speed and accuracy for some users.
Q: Can I try out different switches before buying a keyboard? A: Yes, many keyboard enthusiasts offer switch testers, which are small devices that allow users to try out different switch types and determine their preferences before investing in a keyboard.