Mechanical keyboards have been gaining popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. Compared to traditional membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. But not all mechanical keyboards are created equal – the switches used in a mechanical keyboard can greatly impact the typing experience. In this article, I’ll be discussing my favorite mechanical keyboard switches and why I prefer them.
Before diving into my personal favorites, it’s important to understand the different types of mechanical keyboard switches. The three most common types of switches are linear, tactile, and clicky.
Linear switches have a smooth and consistent feel when pressed, without any tactile bump or click. These switches are often preferred for gaming as they allow for quick and easy key presses.
Tactile switches have a bump in the middle of the key press, providing a tactile feedback that lets you know when the key has been actuated. These switches are often preferred for typing as the tactile bump can help prevent accidental keystrokes.
Clicky switches are similar to tactile switches but also provide an audible click when the key is pressed. While some find the clicking sound satisfying, others find it distracting or annoying.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the different types of mechanical keyboard switches, let’s dive into my personal favorites.
Cherry MX Brown Cherry : The Cherry MX Brown is a mechanical switch used in many popular mechanical keyboards. These switches are known for their tactile feedback, which makes them a popular choice among typists, gamers, and programmers alike.
The Cherry MX Brown switch has a tactile bump in the middle of its key travel, which provides feedback to the user that the key has been actuated. This bump is subtle compared to other tactile switches like the Cherry MX Blue, making the Cherry MX Brown switch a great option for those who don’t want a loud keyboard. The Cherry MX Brown switch has an actuation force of 45g, which means it doesn’t require much force to actuate the key.
In addition to their tactile feedback, Cherry MX Brown switches are also known for their durability. These switches are rated for up to 50 million keystrokes, which means they can withstand heavy usage without wearing out. The switches are also compatible with LED backlighting, which makes them a great option for those who want a keyboard that looks great in low-light environments.
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the Cherry MX Brown switch is a popular choice among many users. It’s a great all-around switch that provides tactile feedback without being too loud, and it’s also durable enough to withstand heavy usage. If you’re in the market for a mechanical keyboard, the Cherry MX Brown switch is definitely one to consider.
Gateron Yellow : Gateron Yellow is a popular mechanical keyboard switch known for its smooth and linear keystrokes. These switches are manufactured by Gateron, a Chinese company that has been producing mechanical switches since 2000. Gateron Yellow switches are part of Gateron’s line of linear switches, which means they have a consistent force required to actuate the switch, without any tactile feedback or audible click.
One of the main selling points of Gateron Yellow switches is their smoothness. They have a low actuation force of 50g, which makes them easy to type on for extended periods without fatigue. The switches have a total travel distance of 4mm, with an actuation point at 2mm, which is the standard for most mechanical keyboards. The switches are rated for up to 50 million keystrokes, which means they are built to last a long time
In terms of sound, Gateron Yellow switches are relatively quiet compared to other mechanical switches. They produce a soft and muted sound when typing, making them ideal for office environments where noise can be a distraction. However, if you’re a fan of audible feedback, these switches may not be the best choice.
Gateron Yellow switches are compatible with most mechanical keyboards that use Cherry MX-style switches. They come in a 3-pin and 5-pin configuration, which allows for customization and hot-swapping. The 3-pin version is suitable for keyboards with PCB-mounted switches, while the 5-pin version is compatible with keyboards that have plate-mounted switches.
Overall, Gateron Yellow switches are a great option for those who value smooth keystrokes and a quiet typing experience. They offer a good balance of quality, durability, and affordability, making them a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Kailh Box White : Kailh Box White is a mechanical keyboard switch that has gained popularity among keyboard enthusiasts and gamers due to its tactile feedback, durability, and overall performance. It was introduced as a part of Kailh’s Box series switches, which are designed to be dust and water-resistant.
The Kailh Box White switch is a clicky switch that produces a distinct sound and tactile feedback when pressed. It has an actuation force of 50g, which means it requires a moderate amount of force to register a keystroke. The switch has a total travel distance of 3.6mm, with an actuation point of 1.8mm, which makes it a relatively fast and responsive switch.
The Kailh Box White switch is designed with a unique stem that has a box-shaped housing. This housing is intended to protect the switch from dust and water, which can cause damage to traditional mechanical switches. The box design also helps to reduce wobbling and stem binding, which can affect the accuracy and consistency of keystrokes.
The Kailh Box White switch has a lifespan of 80 million keystrokes, which makes it one of the most durable mechanical switches on the market. It also has a gold-plated contact point, which helps to prevent corrosion and ensures a stable electrical connection.
Overall, the Kailh Box White switch is an excellent choice for gamers and typists who are looking for a tactile and clicky switch that offers durability and reliability. It is compatible with most mechanical keyboards that use Cherry MX-style switches and is available in both SMD and through-hole versions.
