How to choose your mechanical keyboard switches?

Introduction

Customizing your mechanical keyboard is a bit like tuning the suspension of a racing car: it's all in the details. And one of the most decisive is the choice of switches . They influence your comfort, your productivity, your ambient noise... and even your writing pleasure!

Whether you're a hardcore gamer, a hardcore typist, or simply passionate about customization, this comprehensive guide will help you identify the perfect switches for your needs and style.

What is a mechanical keyboard switch?

A switch is the mechanism located under each key. Unlike membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards use individual switches that provide precise feedback, superior durability, and customizable feel.

Each switch is composed of:

• The stem : Determines the switch type and keycap compatibility.
• The spring : Influences the activation force.
• The housing : Protects the internal mechanism.
• Contacts : Trigger the electrical signal when the button is pressed.

👉 Result: each type of switch offers a different feel and acoustics.

The 3 main categories of switches

There are 3 main types of switches, each with its own characteristics:

🔵 Linear switches

• Feel : Smooth and fluid, with no tactile feedback.
• Noise : Quiet (except bottom-out).
• Ideal for : Gaming and fast typing.
• Popular examples : Cherry MX Red, Gateron Red, Kailh Speed ​​Silver.

✅ Why choose a linear switch?

• Reduction of mechanical noise.
• Faster activation for competitive gaming.
• Smooth and light feeling.

🟡 Touch switches

• Feel : Slight bump before activation.
• Noise : Moderate.
• Ideal for : Office work.
• Popular examples : Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Brown, Boba U4T.

✅ Why choose a touch switch?

• Better feel when typing.
• Prevents accidental pressure.
• Good balance between gaming and office work.

🔴 Clicky switches

• Feel : Resistance with a distinct audible click.
• Noise : Noisy.
• Ideal for : Lovers of sound and tactile feedback.
• Popular examples : Cherry MX Blue, Gateron Blue, Kailh Box White.

✅ Why choose a clicky switch?

• Unique and satisfying typing experience.
• Perfect for those who like audible and tactile feedback.
• Ideal for intensive typing (but not recommended in open spaces!).

How to choose your switches according to your use?

🎮 Best switches for gaming

• Recommended choice : Linear (Cherry MX Red, Gateron Yellow, Kailh Speed ​​Silver).
• Why ?: Fast activation, no resistance.
• Bonus tip : Opt for lubricated switches for better fluidity.

⌨️ Best switches for typing

• Recommended choice : Tactiles (MX Brown, Holy Panda, Boba U4T).
• Why?: Pleasant feel, good balance between feedback and silence.
• Bonus tip : Try soft tactile switches if you type for a long time.

💻 Best switches for work/office

• Recommended choice : Silent Tactile (Boba U4, Silent Red, Silent Brown).
• Why?: Less noise, while maintaining a good feel.
• Bonus tip : Add o-rings for even more soundproofing.

🎵 Best switches for sound and feel

• Recommended choice : Clicky (MX Blue, Box Jade, Kailh Navy).
• Why ?: Immersive experience, perfect for purists.
• Bonus tip : Check if those around you tolerate noise!

Lubrication and customization of switches

💡 Why lubricate?

• Noise reduction : Less internal friction.
• Improved Fluidity : Smoother feel.
• Durability : Less wear and tear on components.

👉 Recommended lubricants:

• Krytox 205g0 (linear).
• Tribosys 3204 (touch).

🔧 Other possible mods

• Switch films : Reduce wobble (lateral play).
• Spring swaps : Changes the strike resistance.
• Stem swap : Combines elements from different switches.

Keycap Compatibility

Once you've chosen your switches, you need to think about compatible keycaps !

• Cherry MX : Most custom keycaps are compatible.
• Kailh Box : Keycaps with thicker stems recommended.
• Low Profile : Check the height of the keycaps carefully.

Discover our collection of 3D printed keycaps on KCOD and complete your setup with a unique design!

Conclusion: Which switch to choose?

👉 If you play a lot : Opt for linear switches .

👉 If you type a lot : Touchscreens are a great choice.

👉 If you like sound feedback : Clicky ones will be perfect.

👉 If you work in an open space : Opt for silent switches .

🔹 Test before you buy! Use sample packs to try out multiple switches before making your choice.

FAQ: Your frequently asked questions

1. Can you mix different types of switches on a keyboard?

👉 Yes! We then talk about "switch mixing", some people put linear ones for WASD/ZQSD and tactile ones elsewhere.

2. Do switches affect the sound of the keyboard?

👉 Absolutely! Switches influence the "thock" or "clack", especially with well-chosen keycaps.

3. Which switch is the most durable?

👉 Cherry MX switches have a lifespan of 50 million activations , some optical switches go up to 100 million .

With this guide, you're now ready to choose the perfect switches for your keyboard ! What's your favorite switch? Let us know in the comments!