How to choose your mechanical keyboard switches?

Introduction

If you're looking to customize your mechanical keyboard, choosing the right switches is an essential step. They directly influence typing comfort, noise, responsiveness, and even durability. Whether you're a gamer, typist, or a custom keyboard enthusiast, this guide will help you choose the perfect switches for your needs.

What is a mechanical keyboard switch?

A switch is the mechanism located under each key of a mechanical keyboard. Unlike membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards offer a more precise, durable, and comfortable typing experience . Each switch is composed of several elements:

• 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.

The 3 main categories of switches

There are three 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 (Tactile)

• Feel : Slight bump before activation.

• Noise : Moderate.

• Ideal for : Typing and improved typing feedback.

• 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 your switches?

• Noise reduction : Less friction and unwanted sounds.

• Better fluidity : Smoother and more pleasant typing.

• Increases durability : Less wear on internal components.

👉 Recommended lubricants : Krytox 205g0 (linear), Tribosys 3204 (tactile).

🔧 Modify your switches?

• Switch Films : Reduce wobble and improve stability.

• Springs swap : Change the spring resistance for a lighter or heavier strike.

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 - Keycaps On Demand 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 : Tactile switches are a great choice. 👉 If you like audible feedback : Clicky switches are perfect. 👉 If you work in an open-plan office : Opt for silent switches .

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

📌 Have you chosen your switches? It's time to find the perfect keycaps! Discover our exclusive selection on KCOD . 🚀

❓ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can you mix different types of switches on a keyboard?
👉 Yes! This is called "switch mixing," and some gamers use linear switches for WASD and touch switches 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!