Last Updated on December 2, 2023
When it comes to enhancing your typing and gaming experience, the keyboard you choose can make all the difference. With a plethora of options available in the market, selecting the perfect one for your unique needs can be a daunting task. This is where custom switches come into play. In this in-depth article, we will delve into the world of custom switches, exploring their myriad benefits and offering guidance on how to pick the best custom switch for your typing and gaming endeavors. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the finest custom switches tailored specifically for typing and gaming enthusiasts!
The Best Custom Switches for Typing and Gaming:
Switch Name Switch Type Actuation Force Actuation Distance Travel Distance Pin Awards DUROCK Black Lotus Linear Linear 67g 1.5mm 3.6mm 5 pins Top Choice, Smooth & Durable KPREPUBLIC Everglide Aqua King Tactile 60g 2mm 4mm 5 pins Tactile Precision Tecsee Purple Panda Linear 67g 2mm 4mm 5 pins Versatile & Durable Everglide Dark Jade Tactile Tactile 50g 1.8mm 4mm 5 pins Tactile Comfort Gateron Cream Linear 50g 1.5mm 3.5mm 5 pins Smooth & Durable Tecsee Sapphire V2 Tactile 65g 1.8mm 4mm 5 pins Tactile & Customizable Alpaca Linear Linear 62g 1.4mm 3.5mm 5 pins Silky Smooth & Versatile Drop + Invyr Holy Panda Tactile 67g 1.9mm 4mm 5 pins Tactile Excellence Glorious Panda Tactile 67g 1.9mm 4mm 3/5 pins Balanced Tactile Feedback Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky Tactile, silent 62g 2mm 4mm 5 pins Silent Tactile Precision
The Best Custom Switches for Typing and Gaming
1. DUROCK Black Lotus Linear Switches
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
DUROCK Black Lotus linear switches stand out as exceptional choices for both typists and gamers, offering a remarkable blend of smoothness, sound, and tactile feel. These switches employ a POM stem and housing, ensuring minimal friction for an exceptionally smooth keystroke. Gamers benefit from precise and rapid movements, while typists enjoy a fluid typing experience.
Furthermore, the DUROCK Black Lotus linear switches deliver a gratifying sound profile that strikes a harmonious balance—neither excessively loud nor distracting. This auditory experience is achieved through the synergy of the switch’s housing, stem, and spring, ensuring consistency and satisfaction with every keystroke. Their durability, rated at 50 million keystrokes, and high-quality materials further underscore their exceptional performance, though it’s worth noting that these premium features do come at a higher price point compared to some other options. In summary, the DUROCK Black Lotus linear switches are a superior choice for those seeking a custom switch that elevates both typing and gaming experiences, thanks to their exceptional smoothness, sound, and tactile feedback.
2. KPREPUBLIC Everglide EG Aqua King Water King
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 60g |
| Actuation Distance | 2mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
The KPREPUBLIC Everglide EG Aqua King Water King Switches are a popular choice among typists and gamers. They are known for their satisfying tactile feedback and short actuation distance, making them ideal for both precise typing and rapid gaming. These switches feature a proprietary stem design that reduces friction, ensuring smooth and responsive keypresses, especially useful for gamers requiring quick and consecutive key presses.
With a remarkable lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes, these switches offer exceptional durability, making them a long-lasting choice. Additionally, they are available in various actuation forces, ranging from 45g to 80g, providing users the flexibility to select the perfect switch to match their preferences. These switches are compatible with most mechanical keyboards, eliminating compatibility concerns. In summary, the EG Aqua King Water King Switches are a reliable and high-quality custom switch option designed to excel in both typing and gaming scenarios, delivering tactile precision and lasting performance.
3. Tecsee Purple Panda
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 2mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Tecsee Purple Panda Switches stand out as top-tier custom switches tailored for typing and gaming enthusiasts. These tactile switches boast a 67g actuation force and a 4mm travel distance, housed in a transparent purple casing for enhanced RGB lighting and customization. Compatible with Cherry MX keycaps, they offer tactile feedback for a responsive typing and gaming experience, enduring up to 50 million keystrokes. Versatile and easy to install, they suit various keyboard layouts and allow for further customization with different plate materials. Tecsee Purple Panda Switches are the go-to choice to elevate your typing and gaming satisfaction while ensuring durability and compatibility.
In summary, Tecsee Purple Panda Switches are the ultimate choice for those seeking a tactile and responsive switch experience for both typing and gaming. With their transparent housing, Cherry MX keycap compatibility, and long-lasting durability, they offer versatile customization options and are easy to install, making them a top pick for keyboard enthusiasts looking to enhance their setup.
4. Everglide EG Dark Jade Tactile Switch
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 50g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Everglide EG Dark Jade Tactile Switches are a top choice for both typists and gamers. With a satisfying tactile bump at the start of each keystroke, they deliver a pleasant typing experience without excessive noise. These switches boast exceptional durability, with a lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes, making them ideal for frequent users. They require an actuation force of 50g, striking a balance suitable for most users, and are compatible with popular Cherry MX keycaps. Additionally, their smooth keystrokes, thanks to special lubrication, reduce finger fatigue during extended sessions. Available in various colors, including dark jade, mint green, and coral red, and featuring a translucent housing for vibrant lighting effects, Everglide EG Dark Jade Tactile Switches offer customization options for both aesthetics and performance. Whether you’re a gamer or typist, these switches promise a delightful and enduring typing experience.
For those seeking a tactile custom switch, the Everglide EG Dark Jade is an outstanding choice, delivering impressive feedback with a light 50g actuation force and a distinct, soft tactile feel. Its unique white housing with a black stem adds a stylish touch to your keyboard. If you’re in search of a reliable, quality custom switch for typing and gaming, the Everglide EG Dark Jade is readily available at an affordable price.
5. Gateron Cream
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 50g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Gateron Cream switches have gained significant popularity in the mechanical keyboard community due to their outstanding performance. These linear switches offer a smooth, consistent keystroke, making them ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. Their low actuation force of 50g ensures exceptional responsiveness.
What sets Gateron Cream switches apart is their exceptional smoothness, attributed to a POM stem and pre-lubrication with specialized oils. Moreover, these switches boast impressive durability, rated for 50 million keystrokes, thanks to gold-plated contact points that prevent oxidation. They maintain a relatively quiet profile, making them suitable for shared spaces, and their compatibility with various keycaps and lighting options adds a layer of customization for users. In summary, Gateron Cream switches are a top choice for those seeking high-quality, smooth, and customizable switches for typing and gaming, especially if you favor linear switches over tactile or clicky ones.
6. Tecsee Sapphire V2
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 65g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Tecsee Sapphire V2 Switches stand out as top-tier custom switches for both typing and gaming enthusiasts. Known for their smooth and satisfying performance, these switches are a favorite among users seeking durability and lasting quality. Their notable feature is the tactile feedback, featuring a satisfying bump that aids in precision for gamers and enhances typing efficiency. With an impressive lifespan of up to 80 million keystrokes and resistance to dust and moisture, Tecsee Sapphire V2 Switches are built to endure heavy use.
They also offer customization options, allowing users to tailor the actuation force to their liking, ranging from 35g to 70g. Moreover, their noise level is pleasantly moderate, making them suitable for shared workspaces. For those seeking a high-quality, customizable switch, Tecsee Sapphire V2 Switches are a compelling choice, delivering tactile feedback, durability, and customization in one package.
In summary, Tecsee Sapphire V2 Switches are the go-to option for those in search of superior custom switches. They offer a harmonious blend of tactile feedback, robustness, and customization possibilities, cementing their status as a preferred choice for gamers and typists alike. If you’re in the market for a new switch, Tecsee Sapphire V2 Switches deserve your consideration.
7. Alpaca Linear Switches
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 62g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.4mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Alpaca Linear Switches stand out as top-tier custom switches tailored for both typing and gaming. Crafted by the community and manufactured by JWK, these switches strike an impeccable balance between a silky keystroke and gratifying tactile feedback, catering to the needs of typists and gamers alike.
These switches excel in their smoothness, featuring a linear design devoid of any bumps or pronounced tactile feedback during key presses. This seamless glide from key initiation to bottoming out proves indispensable for gamers requiring swift and precise actions. For typists, this smoothness translates into faster and more accurate typing, as there is minimal resistance during keypresses.
Despite their linearity, Alpaca Linear Switches introduce a subtle yet discernible bump upon actuation. This nuanced tactile feedback, though less pronounced than that of tactile switches, delivers a satisfying sensation appreciated by both typists and gamers. It ensures that typists can ascertain keystroke registration without bottoming out the switch.
Furthermore, Alpaca Linear Switches boast durability and reliability. With a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes, they easily meet the demands of the average user. Their gold-plated contact leaf guarantees a dependable connection, minimizing the chances of missed keystrokes or ghosting. These switches offer compatibility with a wide array of keycaps and come in various colors and spring weights to cater to individual preferences.
In summary, Alpaca Linear Switches represent an exceptional choice for those seeking a seamless and gratifying typing or gaming experience. Their versatility and customizability make them an ideal investment for users aiming to craft their unique keyboard setup, backed by smoothness, tactile feedback, durability, and broad compatibility.
8. Drop + Invyr Holy Panda
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.9mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
The Drop + Invyr Holy Panda, designed specifically for typing and gaming, stands out as one of the top choices in the custom mechanical keyboard world. Combining the Halo True and Invyr Panda switches, it offers a remarkable tactile feel and silky keystrokes. The pronounced tactile bump enhances typing speed and accuracy, while also improving gaming precision. Additionally, its stem design minimizes friction and wobble, delivering consistently smooth keypresses.
This custom switch allows for spring weight and lubrication customization, catering to individual preferences. However, its premium price and occasional limited availability may deter some users. Nevertheless, for those prioritizing an exceptional typing and gaming experience, the Holy Panda switch proves to be a worthwhile investment.
9. Glorious Panda Switch
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.9mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 3/5 pins |
The Glorious Panda Switch, crafted by Glorious PC Gaming Race, has garnered immense popularity among typists and gamers alike. This custom mechanical keyboard switch boasts a tactile bump and a medium-weight spring, ensuring a responsive and delightful typing experience. Composed of a blend of POM and nylon materials, it offers a silky-smooth feel that enhances the pleasure of typing.
What sets the Glorious Panda Switch apart is its well-balanced tactile bump, occurring precisely at the actuation point. This bump provides clear feedback, aiding typing accuracy and speed without being overly sharp, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming enthusiasts.
Moreover, the medium-weight spring strikes a perfect equilibrium between actuation force and ease of use, promoting swift typing and gaming without causing fatigue. Users can also customize the spring’s weight to align with their preferences.
The switch’s unique housing design minimizes key wobbling and key chatter, ensuring a consistent typing experience. Key wobbling, caused by excessive keycap movement during typing, is eliminated, as is the frustration of key chatter, where the switch registers multiple keystrokes from a single press.
Additionally, the Glorious Panda Switch offers broad compatibility with most mechanical keyboards, facilitating an effortless upgrade for those seeking to enhance their typing or gaming experiences. Its durability, rated at 50 million keystrokes, ensures years of reliable performance with proper care.
In conclusion, the Glorious Panda Switch is a favored custom switch for typing and gaming, renowned for its tactile bump, medium-weight spring, and innovative housing design. It elevates typing precision and speed while catering to the needs of both casual and professional users. With compatibility across a range of mechanical keyboards and impressive longevity, it stands as a valuable investment for those aiming to elevate their keyboard’s switch quality.
10. Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky Switch
| Switch Type | Tactile, silent |
| Actuation Force | 62g |
| Actuation Distance | 2mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
The Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky Switch stands as a top-tier custom switch for both typing and gaming. Engineered with a tactile bump, it offers satisfying feedback while typing or gaming, boasting a distinctive appearance with a clear top and milky white bottom that sets it apart. Its standout feature is its silent operation, emitting a subtle “thock” sound, perfect for quiet settings like shared spaces or open offices. Built to last with high-quality materials, it guarantees durability even under heavy usage, ensuring a consistent and gratifying experience.
The switch’s high degree of customization allows users to tailor it to their specific needs, whether for gaming, typing, or programming. However, it might not suit those who prefer lighter actuation forces. In summary, the Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky Switch excels in tactile feedback, silent operation, and customization, making it an outstanding choice for typing and gaming enthusiasts seeking a durable and satisfying experience.
11. Akko Silver Switches
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.1mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Pin | 3 pins |
Akko Silver switches are a top pick among keyboard enthusiasts seeking peak typing and gaming excellence. Designed for precision and high performance, these custom switches cater to gamers and typists alike, offering a seamless and ultra-responsive experience. Boasting a mere 45g actuation force, these switches are effortlessly easy to press, reducing fatigue during extended sessions.
What sets Akko Silver switches apart is their lightning-fast 1.8mm actuation distance, ensuring rapid and precise responses in gaming or lightning-quick typing. This abbreviated actuation distance also minimizes the force needed to activate the switch, further enhancing comfort during prolonged usage.
Durability is a hallmark of Akko Silver switches, capable of enduring up to 50 million keystrokes. Their transparent housing allows vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, offering an extra layer of keyboard customization. In summary, if you seek a high-performance switch for both typing and gaming, Akko Silver switches deliver with their responsiveness, durability, and customizable illumination. Elevate your experience with these exceptional switches.
12. Tecsee Carrot
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 50g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Tecsee Carrot switches are custom mechanical switches crafted for gaming and typing, featuring premium materials like gold-plated contact points and a thermoplastic polycarbonate housing. These switches offer a distinct tactile bump for precise feedback, enhancing typing accuracy and gaming responsiveness. With a durability rating of 50 million keystrokes and dependable gold-plated contacts, they ensure long-lasting performance and minimal missed inputs.
Moreover, Tecsee Carrot switches are highly customizable, compatible with various keycaps, and adaptable to a wide range of keyboards. While they may come at a slightly higher price point, their exceptional quality and longevity make them a valuable choice for dedicated gamers and typists seeking top-tier custom switches. If you’re in search of a premium custom switch for your keyboard, Tecsee Carrot switches are a compelling option.
13. Akko Jelly Black
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 60g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Akko Jelly Black switches stand out as top-tier custom switches suitable for both typing and gaming. These linear switches boast a medium actuation force of 60g, making them a preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking a switch that demands a bit more effort. Manufactured by Akko, a reputable Chinese keyboard and accessory manufacturer, these switches offer exceptional quality.
What truly sets the Akko Jelly Black switches apart is their distinctive design. Featuring a translucent stem, they allow RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually stunning effect sure to impress. The switch housing is constructed from high-quality polycarbonate, minimizing wobble and ensuring a stable, solid feel.
Performance-wise, the Akko Jelly Black switches excel. They deliver a smooth, consistent keystroke, perfectly suited for both typing and gaming. With a 60g actuation force, they strike the right balance, enabling swift key presses while preventing accidental ones. This versatility caters to fast-paced gaming and extended typing sessions.
Durability is another strong suit of these switches, rated for an impressive 50 million keystrokes. Additionally, their gold-plated contact design enhances electrical conductivity, reducing key chattering and ensuring accurate keystroke registration.
In summary, the Akko Jelly Black switches are an outstanding choice for those seeking high-quality custom switches offering exceptional performance and longevity. Their unique design, allowing RGB lighting to shine through, adds an appealing visual element. Whether you’re a gamer, typist, or simply appreciate a top-notch keyboard experience, the Akko Jelly Black switches are a compelling option to consider.
14. Kailh Box Mute Jade Switch
| Switch Type | Tactile, silent |
| Actuation Force | 50g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
The Kailh Box Mute Jade switch has garnered significant acclaim in the mechanical keyboard community for its exceptional blend of tactile feedback and silence. These switches are ideal for both typing and gaming, offering a satisfying tactile bump without the loud clicky noise typical of such switches. With a 50g actuation force, they enable effortless, fatigue-free typing over extended periods.
What sets the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch apart is its impressive noise reduction design, employing a patented silicone damper to significantly diminish actuation noise. This allows you to relish tactile feedback without disturbing others nearby. Moreover, these switches boast remarkable durability, with a lifespan of up to 80 million keystrokes, ensuring long-lasting performance and tactile feel.
The unique box-shaped stem design of the Kailh Box Mute Jade switch prevents dust and debris from infiltrating the switch, enhancing reliability and ensuring sustained functionality. Whether you’re in a shared office or gaming environment, these switches provide a gratifying typing experience in a hushed setting. Their popularity within the mechanical keyboard community is well-deserved, making them a compelling choice for anyone seeking a custom switch that excels in tactile response and silence.
15. Kailh Deep Sea Switches
| Switch Type | Clicky, tactile |
| Actuation Force | 60g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Kailh Deep Sea switches, a collaborative innovation by Kailh and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, stand as top-tier custom switches for both typing and gaming. These switches sport a distinctive color scheme and are celebrated for their exceptional tactile feedback and seamless actuation.
Notably, Kailh Deep Sea switches excel in tactile feedback, owing to a cleverly designed stem featuring a tactile bump right before the actuation point. This design imparts a highly satisfying and discernible clicky feel, assuring users that their keypress has been successfully registered.
In terms of actuation, Kailh Deep Sea switches require a moderate 50g of force and boast a shallow 1.5mm actuation point. This balance ensures a comfortable typing and gaming experience without excessive strain, while the shallow actuation point facilitates swift input.
The switches’ smoothness is another standout feature, achieved through meticulous craftsmanship and premium materials. This results in a delightful absence of any “scratchy” sensation during typing or gaming, enhancing the overall user experience.
Durability is a strong suit of Kailh Deep Sea switches, boasting an impressive 80 million keystroke lifespan, ensuring years of reliable performance even under heavy use. Furthermore, their compatibility with various keycap profiles allows for personalized keyboard aesthetics.
In sum, Kailh Deep Sea switches present an exceptional choice for those seeking a tactile and smooth switch for typing and gaming. Their well-balanced actuation force, shallow actuation point, and remarkable durability make them a favored pick among keyboard enthusiasts. With a unique color scheme and stellar performance, Kailh Deep Sea switches are a valuable addition to any custom mechanical keyboard setup.
16. Drop Halo Clear Switch
| Switch Type | Tactile Quiet |
| Actuation Force | 65g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
The Drop Halo Clear switch stands out as a leading choice among custom mechanical switches today. Developed in collaboration between Input Club and Massdrop, these switches offer an outstanding typing and gaming experience, particularly suited for those seeking a tactile, robust switch with precise actuation.
One key highlight of the Drop Halo Clear switch is its tactile bump upon activation, providing clear feedback for precise typing and gaming. With an actuation force of 65g, these switches demand a deliberate press, enhancing accuracy.
Durability is another forte of the Halo Clear switch, boasting a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes, ensuring longevity even with heavy use. Moreover, these switches operate smoothly and consistently, exhibiting low wobble rates for precise and stable inputs.
What sets the Halo Clear switches apart is their unique design, featuring a clear stem that allows for vibrant backlighting customization, appealing to those seeking personalized lighting effects for their keyboard.
In summary, the Drop Halo Clear switch ranks among the finest custom switches for typing and gaming, offering tactile feedback, durability, stability, and a distinct design. Whether you’re a gamer or a typist, the Halo Clear switch guarantees an exceptional typing experience.
17. Kailh Box Red Bean Pudding
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Kailh Box Red Bean Pudding switches, highly esteemed in the mechanical keyboard community, stand out as top custom switches for typing and gaming. Crafted by Kailh, a renowned Chinese switch manufacturer, these switches boast a distinctive design with a clear polycarbonate housing and white stem, creating a captivating “pudding” effect when illuminated by RGB lighting. Beyond aesthetics, this design ensures even LED illumination, delivering a visually stunning experience.
Performance-wise, the Kailh Box Red Bean Pudding switches excel. They are linear switches, offering a smooth and consistent 50g actuation force, ideal for swift and precise keystrokes, whether typing or gaming. With a standard 3.6mm total travel distance, they align with typical mechanical keyboard standards.
Notably, these switches feature a protective “Box” design, enhancing dust and water resistance. This safeguarding mechanism shields the switch from moisture and debris, enhancing its longevity compared to switches lacking such protection.
Moreover, Kailh Box Red Bean Pudding switches exhibit broad compatibility, fitting most PCBs and plate-mounted keyboards. Their MX-style stem ensures compatibility with various keycaps and keyboard cases, and they support both 3-pin and 5-pin PCBs, making them versatile for custom keyboard projects.
In summary, Kailh Box Red Bean Pudding switches offer a unique design, exceptional performance, and enhanced durability, cementing their status as among the finest custom switches for typing and gaming. Whether you’re a gamer, typist, or simply appreciate a well-crafted keyboard, these switches merit serious consideration.
18. Akko Lavender Purple Switch
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
Akko Lavender Purple switches, a newcomer in the custom mechanical keyboard switch market, have quickly garnered a devoted following among keyboard enthusiasts. Produced by Akko, a renowned Chinese company known for top-tier mechanical keyboards and accessories, these switches are tactile and offer a comfortable actuation force of 45g, ideal for typists and gamers alike. With a 4mm travel distance and a lightning-fast 2mm actuation point, they provide remarkable responsiveness.
What sets them apart is their exceptional smoothness, reducing finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions while maintaining quiet operation, making them perfect for shared spaces. Moreover, these switches boast a remarkable durability, rated for 60 million keystrokes, and are compatible with various custom mechanical keyboard layouts.
Their satisfying tactile feedback, characterized by a discernible bump at the actuation point, is a boon for typists and gamers seeking precision. In sum, Akko Lavender Purple switches are a stellar choice for those in search of high-quality custom mechanical keyboard switches suitable for both typing and gaming, delivering unparalleled smoothness, longevity, and tactile satisfaction to discerning enthusiasts.
19. Kailh Polia
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 50g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.8mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 3 pins |
Kailh Polia switches stand out as top-tier custom switches, catering to the needs of both typists and gamers. Renowned for their premium quality and durability, these switches provide a distinctive typing experience that seamlessly blends smoothness and tactile feedback, striking an ideal balance for users. The key feature lies in their satisfying tactile click, offering gamers the crucial sensation needed to swiftly respond to in-game events. Moreover, Kailh Polia switches prioritize responsiveness, a crucial factor for gaming.
The switches’ remarkable smoothness ensures hours of fatigue-free typing or gaming, thanks to a blend of high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques that bolster both durability and reliability. Furthermore, these switches are highly customizable, accommodating various keycap designs and colors, empowering users to personalize their keyboards effortlessly. Installation is a breeze, making keyboard upgrades hassle-free.
Admittedly, Kailh Polia switches do come with a higher price tag compared to other options. However, this premium cost is justified by the superior quality and the unparalleled typing experience they deliver. Their remarkable durability ensures they’ll last for years without a hitch.
In summary, Kailh Polia switches are the ultimate choice for discerning typists and gamers seeking top-notch, durable, and customizable keyboard switches. These switches excel in tactile feedback, smooth operation, and responsiveness, making them the prime selection for both gaming and typing aficionados. While they may be a bit pricier, the exceptional quality and unique typing experience make them a valuable investment for those who demand quality and performance from their keyboards.
20. DUROCK Linear Creamy Green
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 62g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
DUROCK Linear Creamy Green switches stand out as top-tier custom switches suitable for both typing and gaming. These switches have gained popularity owing to their exceptional smoothness and tactile feedback, ensuring a premium typing and gaming experience.
A standout feature of these switches is their subtle tactile bump, offering responsive and precise keystrokes without unnecessary noise or distraction, making them an ideal choice for error-free typing, especially during intense gaming sessions.
The linear action of these switches further enhances their versatility, providing a seamless and quiet typing experience while facilitating quick and effortless keystrokes for gamers.
Durability is a key selling point, boasting an impressive 70-million keystroke lifespan and constructed with POM stem materials, ensuring long-lasting and consistent performance.
Customization is a breeze with these switches, allowing users to tailor the actuation force to their preferences, accommodating both heavy-handed and light-touch typists.
Moreover, these switches are highly compatible, seamlessly fitting into a variety of keyboards, including hot-swappable boards, simplifying the upgrade process without the need for an entirely new keyboard purchase.
In summary, DUROCK Linear Creamy Green switches offer a top-notch switch solution, delivering a smooth and tactile typing experience, making them ideal for gaming and typing alike. With their durability, customizable actuation force, and broad keyboard compatibility, these switches are the perfect choice for elevating your keyboard experience.
21. DUROCK POM Piano Linear Switches
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
DUROCK POM Piano Linear Switches stand out as top-tier custom switches tailored for typing and gaming enthusiasts. Featuring a linear travel and a 67g actuation force, these switches deliver a seamlessly smooth typing and gaming experience. They employ a POM stem, a durable, self-lubricating material that ensures stability and minimizes friction, rivaling high-end switches like Tealios and Alpacas, all at an affordable price point.
Notably, DUROCK POM Piano Linear Switches excel in stability with a five-pin PCB mount design, eliminating any wobble or rattle during use. This design elevates the switches, providing premium consistency and accuracy with every keypress.
Furthermore, these switches boast compatibility with a wide range of keycap sets, thanks to their standard MX-style stem. This versatility is a boon for keyboard customizers seeking various keycap options.
DUROCK POM Piano Linear Switches strike a fine balance between tactile feedback and typing force, delivering a gratifying typing experience ideal for prolonged sessions that demand both comfort and precision.
In addition, these switches maintain a low sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those favoring a quiet keyboard environment. Their gentle sound is less intrusive than switches like Cherry MX Blues or Greens, ensuring a distraction-free atmosphere.
In summary, DUROCK POM Piano Linear Switches are the go-to option for customizing your keyboard. Offering stellar stability, compatibility with diverse keycaps, a harmonious tactile feel, and a hushed operation, these switches cater to typing, gaming, or any task demanding accuracy and comfort.
22. DUROCK Linear Creamy Purple
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
DUROCK Linear Creamy Purple switches, crafted by the renowned Chinese company JWK, are hailed as top-tier custom switches for both typing and gaming. These linear switches provide a silky tactile sensation and a gentle 50g actuation force, making them ideal for those who crave a smooth keystroke experience.
What sets these switches apart is their exceptional smoothness, achieved through a POM stem that minimizes friction, resulting in a buttery typing experience that’s equally advantageous for gaming due to its swift and precise key presses. Plus, they emit a satisfying, low-pitched sound while typing, although the exact acoustics can vary based on your keyboard and keycaps.
For customization enthusiasts, DUROCK Linear Creamy Purple switches are versatile, easily accommodating a wide range of keycaps. Their transparent housing also allows for vibrant RGB lighting, a treat for gamers and keyboard aficionados who relish personalizing their setups.
Durability is another forte of these switches, with a remarkable lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes. Their housing design makes them resistant to dust and debris, ensuring longevity and easy maintenance.
In summary, DUROCK Linear Creamy Purple switches are the go-to choice for a smooth, tactile, and quiet typing experience, while also excelling in gaming and customization. Their durability and compatibility with various keycaps make them an exceptional investment for anyone seeking to elevate their keyboard’s performance.
23. DUROCK T1 Tactile
| Switch Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
DUROCK T1 Tactile Switches stand out as top-tier custom switches tailored for typing and gaming enthusiasts. These switches, hailing from the reputable Chinese manufacturer DUROCK, have garnered widespread acclaim for their exceptionally smooth tactile sensation, pleasing auditory profile, and remarkable durability.
The T1 switches boast a distinctive tactile bump situated at the keypress’s apex, delivering a satisfying and gentle actuation experience, ideal for both gaming and typing, effectively reducing finger fatigue. With an actuation force of 67g, they strike a well-balanced equilibrium between feedback and speed. Moreover, these switches offer impressive longevity, rated for an impressive 50 million keystrokes, and are resistant to dust and debris, ensuring a prolonged lifespan. The T1 switches also emit a gratifying yet subdued thock sound, making them an excellent choice for those seeking tactile switches that won’t disrupt the peace in shared spaces. Additionally, their transparent housing enables captivating RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of your keyboard.
Customizability is a key advantage of switches like the DUROCK T1, as they seamlessly adapt to various PCBs and plate materials, empowering users to fine-tune their setups according to their preferences. Furthermore, they are compatible with a diverse range of keycaps, permitting users to explore an array of colors, styles, and materials to infuse a personal touch into their keyboard. In summary, DUROCK T1 Tactile Switches are an exceptional choice, offering a harmonious blend of quality, customizability, tactile satisfaction, and subdued acoustics, making them a favored option among enthusiasts seeking to elevate their typing and gaming experiences.
24. DUROCK Dolphin
| Switch Type | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 62g |
| Actuation Distance | 1.5mm |
| Travel Distance | 3.6mm |
| Pin | 5 pins |
DUROCK Dolphin switches enjoy a stellar reputation in the custom keyboard community, revered as top-tier switches for both typing and gaming. These switches combine a satisfying tactile bump with a smooth feel, rendering them perfect for extended typing sessions while providing excellent responsiveness, ideal for gamers seeking rapid feedback.
A key highlight of DUROCK Dolphin switches is their notable tactile bump, offering an enjoyable typing experience without inducing fatigue. Additionally, they emit a crisp and pleasing sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Furthermore, these switches offer exceptional customization options, supporting various keycaps and offering different weight variants to cater to individual preferences. This high level of customization is a significant advantage, particularly for users who prioritize personalized keyboard setups.
In gaming scenarios, DUROCK Dolphin switches shine with their remarkable responsiveness, boasting a short actuation distance that registers key presses swiftly, a crucial factor for success in fast-paced competitive games. In summary, DUROCK Dolphin switches stand out as an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality custom switches for both typing and gaming. They provide tactile satisfaction, smooth operation, and robust customization options, all at an affordable price point, making them a compelling option for a broad range of users. If you’re considering a new custom switch, DUROCK Dolphin switches deserve your attention.
Custom Mechanical Switches vs. Standard Mechanical Switches
Custom Mechanical Switches
Custom mechanical switches are switches that are purposefully designed and produced for specific keyboards or applications. They are highly customizable, allowing users to tailor various aspects of the switch to meet their preferences. Some of the customizable features of custom mechanical switches include:
- Tactile Feedback: Users can adjust the level of tactile feedback, determining how noticeable the bump or click is during keypresses.
- Actuation Force: The force required to register a keypress can be customized to suit the user’s typing style, whether they prefer a lighter or heavier touch.
- Sound: Users can choose the sound profile of the switch, ranging from clicky and audible to silent and discreet.
Custom mechanical switches offer the advantage of a personalized typing experience. Users can fine-tune these switches to match their specific needs, potentially enhancing typing speed and accuracy. However, these benefits come with certain considerations:
- Cost: Custom switches can be more expensive due to the tailored manufacturing process.
- Design Complexity: Developing custom switches requires effort and expertise in switch design.
Standard Mechanical Switches
Standard mechanical switches, in contrast, are mass-produced switches created by established manufacturers such as Cherry MX and Gateron. These switches adhere to predetermined specifications for tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound, and their characteristics are generally consistent across different brands.
Key attributes of standard mechanical switches include:
- Consistency: Standard switches offer uniform characteristics, making it easier to predict the typing experience.
- Availability: They are widely available and can be readily replaced if needed.
- Affordability: Standard switches are typically more affordable than custom counterparts, appealing to a broader range of users.
While standard mechanical switches lack the extensive customization options of custom switches, they remain a popular choice among mechanical keyboard users due to their accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
To summarize the differences between custom and standard mechanical switches, let’s take a closer look at their key characteristics:
| Feature | Custom Mechanical Switches | Standard Mechanical Switches |
|---|---|---|
| Customization Options | Extensive customization, including tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound. | Limited customization, with predetermined specifications. |
| Personalization | Highly personalized typing experience. | More predictable and consistent typing experience. |
| Cost | Often more expensive due to tailored manufacturing. | Generally more affordable. |
| Design Complexity | Requires expertise in switch design. | No design effort needed; readily available. |
| Availability | May have limited availability and longer lead times. | Widely available and easily replaceable. |
In conclusion, the choice between custom and standard mechanical switches depends on your individual preferences and requirements. Custom switches offer a bespoke typing experience but may come at a higher cost and require more design effort. Standard switches, while less customizable, provide a consistent and accessible option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Before You Buy:
Selecting the appropriate custom mechanical switch can indeed be a daunting task, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the myriad switch types available. Here are key factors to consider when making your custom mechanical switch selection:
- Typing vs. Gaming: Depending on your requirements, you may want to opt for a switch optimized for typing or gaming. Typing switches often feature tactile feedback and a higher actuation point, while gaming switches prioritize smoothness and require less actuation force.
- Type of Switch: Multiple types of mechanical switches exist, including linear, tactile, and clicky switches. Linear switches offer smooth and quiet keypresses, tactile switches feature a noticeable bump when activated, and clicky switches combine tactile feedback with an audible click. Carefully consider the application and user preferences when choosing the switch type.
- Tactile Feedback: Pay attention to the switch’s tactile feedback, as some switches exhibit a more pronounced tactile bump than others, resulting in varied typing experiences.
- Actuation Force: Actuation force denotes the pressure needed to activate the switch, often measured in grams. Lighter switches facilitate faster actuation but may lead to more accidental presses, while heavier switches demand more force but provide enhanced accuracy and feedback.
- Actuation Distance: The actuation distance signifies the distance a switch travels before activation. Shorter actuation distances offer greater responsiveness but may be prone to accidental presses, whereas longer actuation distances deliver precision but might feel slower.
- Durability: Evaluate the expected lifespan and usage patterns of the switch. Some switches boast a rating for millions of keystrokes, while others may wear out more swiftly.
- Customization Options: Custom mechanical switches can be customized to match specific requirements, including the addition of backlighting or personalized keycap designs. Consider the available customization options when making your switch selection.
- Brand Reputation: Opt for well-established brands renowned for quality and reliability. Reading user reviews can also provide valuable insights into a switch’s performance and longevity.
By taking these factors into account, you can confidently choose the ideal custom mechanical switch to elevate your typing or gaming experience, aligning it with your unique preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, custom switches can greatly enhance the typing or gaming experience for anyone who values personalized and optimized equipment. With the ability to customize and choose from a wide range of switch types, there is a custom switch to meet every individual’s needs.
When selecting a switch, factors such as intended use (typing vs. gaming), desired tactile feedback, and actuation force should be considered to ensure the best fit. By investing in a custom switch, individuals can elevate their performance and comfort, ultimately leading to a more satisfying and enjoyable experience.
Kizaru is a fan, collector, and has a huge addiction to mechanical keyboards. Kizaru has a collection of dozens of mechanical keyboards that come in different sizes and use different switches. He also frequently contributes to various forums that discuss keyboards such as Reddit and GeekHack.
