Most people who type a lot want a keyboard that feels smooth and comfortable. The switches inside a keyboard play a big role in how it feels to use. In this guide, we’ll go through the different types of switches so you can understand how they work and what makes them unique.
There are many switch options available, but the two main categories are membrane and mechanical. Membrane switches are usually quieter and found in budget keyboards, but they often feel soft and less precise. On the other hand, mechanical switches are built with individual mechanisms under each key, which makes them more durable and provides a satisfying typing experience.
In this post, we’ll focus on mechanical switches, since they offer a wide range of choices for different preferences. Some are designed to be clicky and loud, others are smooth and linear, and some provide a tactile bump in between. Choosing the right switch depends on whether you want speed for gaming, comfort for long typing sessions, or just a satisfying sound with each keystroke.
List of best keyboard switches for typing
1. Gateron Linear Switches
Gateron Red switches give you a smooth and responsive feel while typing. They use a light 45g actuation force, which means you don’t need much pressure to press a key. This makes them fast and easy to use, especially for long typing sessions or quick actions in gaming.
Because they are linear switches, the keystroke feels consistent from top to bottom without any bump or click. This makes them ideal for people who prefer a quiet and effortless typing style. Many users also find that the lighter press reduces finger fatigue over time, making them a good choice for both work and play.
If you like speed and comfort without extra noise, Gateron Reds are a reliable option that balances performance and simplicity.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Linear |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Polycarbonate (top), Nylon (bottom) |
| Pre-travel | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel | 4.0 mm |
| Actuation Force | 45 g |
| Bottom-out Force | 55 g |
| Sound Profile | Quiet, soft |
| Durability | 50 million keystrokes |
Pros
Cons
2. Gateron Clear linear
These are the lightest switches I know, with an actuation force of just 35g. That means keys press down with very little effort, making them smooth and easy to use. They also have a pleasant sound that adds to the typing experience.
Still, they won’t suit everyone. Some people find them too light, which can lead to accidental key presses and less control while typing. If you prefer more resistance under your fingers, these switches may feel unsatisfying or unstable.
On the other hand, if you like quick, soft presses and want to reduce strain during long typing sessions, they can be a great choice. They’re gentle on the fingers and make typing feel effortless. In the end, it depends on preference what feels too light for one person might be perfect for another.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Linear |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Polycarbonate (top), Nylon (bottom) |
| Pre-travel | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel | 4.0 mm |
| Actuation Force | 35 g |
| Bottom-out Force | 45 g |
| Sound Profile | Quiet, soft |
| Durability | 50 million keystrokes |
Pros
Cons
3. Outemu Blue
These switches are often found in budget mechanical keyboards, and they’re basically Cherry MX Blue clones. They provide a fairly decent typing experience, especially if you don’t mind the loud sound. For the price, they’re not a bad option at all.
Because they’re affordable, you don’t need to worry too much about cost. They give you that clicky, tactile feel that many people enjoy when typing. However, they can be frustrating for gaming since they have a higher actuation force. This means you need to press harder compared to lighter switches, which can slow down fast inputs.
If you’re looking for a low-cost keyboard mainly for typing, these switches are a good choice. But for gaming or quiet environments, they may not be the best fit.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Clicky (tactile + audible click) |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Nylon |
| Pre-travel | 2.2 mm |
| Total Travel | 4.0 mm |
| Actuation Force | 60 g |
| Bottom-out Force | 70 g |
| Sound Profile | High-pitched, sharp click |
| Durability | 50 million keystrokes |
Pros
Cons
4. Glorious Panda
The Glorious Panda is a tactile switch that feels excellent for typing. It has a strong, satisfying bump that many people enjoy. The sound it produces is deep and “thocky,” which makes the typing experience even more enjoyable.
The only downside is that it’s on the louder side, so it might not be the best choice for shared spaces like offices or libraries. If you don’t mind the sound, though, it delivers one of the most satisfying tactile experiences you can get.
These switches are great for people who want both feedback and character in their typing. They strike a good balance between performance and feel, making them popular among keyboard enthusiasts.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Tactile |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Polycarbonate (top), Nylon (bottom) |
| Pre-travel | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel | 4.0 mm |
| Actuation Force | 67 g |
| Bottom-out Force | 75 g |
| Sound Profile | Loud, deep “thock” |
| Durability | 50 million keystrokes |
Pros
Cons
5. Kailh Speed Copper
The Kailh Speed Copper was marketed as a tactile gaming switch and is often found on the budget side. It’s smooth and easy to press, which makes it comfortable for long use.
However, its tactile bump is very subtle and almost unnoticeable. For people who love a strong tactile feel, this can be a downside. It doesn’t provide the same level of feedback as other tactile switches, so it may feel closer to a linear switch in actual use.
That said, if you prefer smoother keystrokes and don’t need a heavy bump, the Speed Copper can still be enjoyable. It’s quick, affordable, and reliable enough for everyday use. For gamers, the lighter feel may actually help with speed, but heavy tactile fans might want to look elsewhere.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 40 g |
| Tactile Force | 50 g (peak tactile force) |
| Pre-travel | 1.1 mm |
| Total Travel | 3.4 mm |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Nylon |
| Sound Profile | Light, slightly clacky |
| Durability | 80 million keystrokes |
Pros
Cons
6. Akko V3 Matcha Green
The Akko V3 Matcha Green switches are excellent right out of the box. They feel very smooth and produce a deeper, satisfying sound when typing. They’re not quiet switches—they have a clacky sound, but it’s richer and more pleasant than typical clicky switches.
These switches are a little on the heavier side, which gives them a solid and controlled feel. This makes them great for long typing sessions, as your fingers don’t fatigue as quickly.
For their price, they offer excellent performance and are a strong option for anyone looking for quality switches on a budget. They strike a nice balance between smoothness, sound, and weight, making them enjoyable for both typing and casual gaming.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 50 g |
| Pre-travel | 2 mm |
| Total Travel | 4 mm |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Nylon |
| Sound Profile | Deep, clacky |
| Durability | 50 million keystrokes |
| Special Features | Factory pre-lubed for smoothness |
Pros
Cons
7. Kailh Box Jade
The Kailh Box Jade switches are some of the smoothest clicky switches available. When it comes to typing, their consistency and smoothness combine to create a truly satisfying experience. This is exactly how clicky switches should feel.
They are on the louder side, producing a crisp, sharp click that gives clear feedback with every keystroke. The tactile bump is distinct and pronounced, making each press very noticeable.
These switches are perfect for people who enjoy a strong, consistent feel while typing. The sound and feedback make typing feel lively and responsive. They’re not ideal for quiet environments, but if you want an energetic and precise typing experience, Kailh Box Jade switches deliver exactly that.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Clicky |
| Actuation Force | 50 g |
| Pre-travel | 1.8 mm |
| Total Travel | 3.6 mm |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Polycarbonate/nylon hybrid |
| Sound Profile | Sharp, crisp click |
| Durability | 80 million keystrokes |
| Special Features | Box design prevents dust and moisture |
Pros
Cons
8. Glorious Lynx
The Glorious Lynx is a linear switch with a very decent sound, thanks to its opaque housing. The pre-lubed version offers a nice, crisp bottom-out sound, with almost no spring ping to distract from typing. There are also un-lubed and standard versions, giving you options depending on your preference.
When installed in a keyboard, these switches look good, feel smooth, and sound satisfying all key points for a quality typing experience. Many people enjoy them just for these reasons. However, the main selling point of the Lynx switches is their aesthetics. They have a sleek, modern look that stands out in any build, making them popular for both functional and visual appeal.
Overall, they are a solid choice for anyone who values smooth typing, pleasant sound, and attractive design.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 45 g |
| Pre-travel | 2.0 mm |
| Total Travel | 4.0 mm |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | Opaque plastic |
| Sound Profile | Smooth, subtle bottom-out |
| Durability | 80 million keystrokes |
| Special Features | Pre-lubed option, visually sleek |
Pros
Cons
9. Akko V3 Creamy Yellow Pro
The Akko V3 Creamy Yellow Pro switches are a great choice for typing because of their buttery-smooth feel and comfortable spring weight. They have very little scratchiness and produce a muted “thock” sound that feels satisfying without being too loud.
The weight of these switches is well-balanced not too heavy, not too light making them enjoyable for both long typing sessions and casual gaming. At this price point, they stand out as one of the best linear switches available.
They also deliver consistent performance across every key, which adds to the overall stable and reliable typing experience. For anyone looking for affordable linear switches that feel premium without the high cost, the Creamy Yellow Pro is an excellent option.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 50 g |
| Bottom-out Force | 63.5 g |
| Pre-travel | 1.9 mm |
| Total Travel | 3.5 mm |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | PC (top), PA (bottom) |
| Durability | 60 million keystrokes |
| Special Features | Upgraded Pro version with lubed rails |
Pros
Cons
10. Akko V3 Creamy Black Pro
The Akko V3 Creamy Black Pro switch feels very smooth right out of the box, with no need for extra lubing. Compared to the standard versions, the Pro series delivers an even cleaner glide. The sound is sharp and crisp with a higher pitch, giving you that satisfying clacky feedback many people love.
It has a slightly heavier actuation, but not to the point where it feels tiring, so you still get control and precision with each press. What makes it stand out even more is the price it’s surprisingly affordable for the performance it offers.
You’ll notice I mention Akko switches often, and that’s for a reason. They’ve built a strong reputation in the community for making high-quality switches that balance smooth feel, distinct sound, and great value. The Creamy Black Pro is a perfect example of why Akko is so well-regarded among enthusiasts.
| Feature | Detail |
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 50 g |
| Bottom-out Force | 63.5 g |
| Pre-travel | 1.9 mm |
| Total Travel | 3.5 mm |
| Stem Material | POM |
| Housing | PC (top), PA (bottom) |
| Durability | 60 million keystrokes |
| Special Features | Pro version with factory-lubed rails |
Pros
Cons
And when you’re ready to choose the ideal keyboard setup, don’t miss our curated list of best keyboards for accountants.
Conclusion
These are the switches I carefully picked for you. But before you decide, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The actuation force (how much pressure you need to press a key), the travel distance (how far the key goes down), and the type of feedback you want are all important factors to consider.
Some switches feel light and fast, while others are heavier and more controlled. The sound can also make a big difference some are quiet and soft, while others are loud and clicky. Think about what feels best for your typing style or gaming needs before making your choice.
FAQ’S
Is clicky or tactile typing better?
It’s all about personal preference. Some people enjoy clicky switches for their sharp, satisfying sound. Others prefer tactile switches for the thocky feedback and the balanced actuation force. Some users like heavier switches because they feel more controlled, while others prefer lighter ones because they feel easier and smoother to press.
Why do people like loud clicky keyboards?
Most people like loud keyboards because of the satisfying thocky sound. It gives feedback and lets you know your keystroke has been registered.
Is it rude to bring a mechanical keyboard to the office?
If your coworkers get annoyed by your loud keyboard noise, it can feel rude. But you can fix this by customizing your keyboard and adding dampeners to reduce the sound it will be better.
Are clicky switches better for typing?
Clicky switches make a classic click sound that many people enjoy. They are a great choice for anyone who loves that satisfying click with every press.
