Last Updated on October 24, 2023
Mechanical keyboards are a popular choice among users who demand precision and tactile feedback in their typing or gaming experience. One critical aspect of a mechanical keyboard is the selection of switches, and choosing the right switch for specific keys can significantly impact your overall typing or gaming experience. In this article, we will explore the best switches for specific keys, focusing on the spacebar, backspace, enter key, shift keys, caps lock, tab key, and the essential A, S, D, W keys for FPS gaming.
| Key | Recommended Switch | Switch Type | Actuation Force | Travel Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spacebar | Cherry MX Black | Linear | 55g | 4.0mm | Smooth and quiet. |
| Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky | Tactile | 68g | 4.0mm | Tactile with less noise. | |
| Kailh Box Jade | Clicky | 60g | 3.6mm | Bumpy and loud. | |
| Backspace | Cherry MX Red | Linear | 54g | 4.0mm | Light and quiet. |
| Gateron Red | Linear | 55g | 4.0mm | Smooth and light. | |
| Kailh Box Black | Linear | 60g | 3.6mm | Responsive and slightly heavier. | |
| Enter Key | Cherry MX Brown | Tactile | 45g | 4.0mm | Tactile with quiet typing. |
| Kailh Speed Copper | Tactile | 60g | 3.5mm | Responsive and tactile. | |
| Boba U4T Switch | Tactile | 62g | 3.6mm | Tactile with pleasant typing sound. | |
| Shift Keys | Cherry MX Brown | Tactile | 45g | 4.0mm | Tactile with great feedback. |
| Kailh Speed Copper | Tactile | 60g | 3.5mm | Responsive and tactile for precision. | |
| Boba U4T Switch | Tactile | 62g | 3.6mm | Tactile with enjoyable typing sound. | |
| Caps Lock and Tab Key | Cherry MX Brown | Tactile | 45g | 4.0mm | Tactile with quiet typing sound. |
| Gateron Brown | Tactile | 48g | 4.0mm | Smooth and tactile for caps lock and tab. | |
| Boba U4T Switch | Tactile | 62g | 3.6mm | Tactile with fun typing sound. | |
| “ASDW” for FPS Gaming | Cherry MX Speed Silver | Linear | 45g | 3.4mm | Fast and responsive for gaming. |
| Cherry MX Red | Linear | 54g | 4.0mm | Ideal actuation force for FPS gaming. | |
| Gateron Clear Switch | Linear | 35g | 4.0mm | Lightweight and responsive for gaming. |
Best Switches for Spacebar Key
The spacebar key is the largest key on a mechanical keyboard, and its unique size requires a switch that offers different actuation characteristics. Here are some of the best switches for the spacebar:
- Cherry MX Black:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 55g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Cherry MX Black is the perfect linear switch for spacebar use. It offers exceptional smoothness and a relatively quiet typing experience.
- Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 68g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: If you prefer tactile feedback on your spacebar, the Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky is an excellent choice. It provides a subtle bump and produces a less pronounced typing sound.
- Kailh Box Jade:
- Switch Type: Clicky
- Actuation Force: 60g
- Travel Distance: 3.6mm
- Description: The Kailh Box Jade is a clicky switch that excels on the spacebar. It offers a distinct tactile feel and a satisfying, albeit louder, typing sound.
Best Switches for Backspace Key
The backspace key requires precise and light actuation. Linear switches are ideal for this purpose. Here are the top switches for the backspace key:
- Cherry MX Red:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 54g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Cherry MX Red is an excellent linear switch for the backspace key. It offers a light and smooth keypress, and the typing feedback is minimal, resulting in a quiet typing experience.
- Gateron Red:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 55g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Gateron Red is known for its smoothness and is one of the smoothest linear switches available. It’s a great choice for the backspace key.
- Kailh BOX Black:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 60g
- Travel Distance: 3.6mm
- Description: Kailh BOX Black offers a more responsive experience for the backspace key, making it a top pick for those who prefer a slightly heavier touch.
Best Switches for Enter Key
The enter key benefits from a tactile switch that provides excellent feedback and a pleasant typing sound. Here are the best tactile switches for the enter key:
- Cherry MX Brown:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 45g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Cherry MX Brown is an ideal tactile switch for the enter key, offering satisfying feedback and a quiet typing experience.
- Kailh Speed Copper:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 60g
- Travel Distance: 3.5mm
- Description: Kailh Speed Copper is a responsive tactile switch that enhances the typing experience on the enter key.
- Boba U4T Switch:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 62g
- Travel Distance: 3.6mm
- Description: The Boba U4T switch offers a tactile and pleasant typing sound, making it an excellent choice for the enter key.
Best Switches for Shift Keys
The shift keys are frequently used, and they benefit from the same switches recommended for the enter key. Here are the top switches for the shift keys:
- Cherry MX Brown:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 45g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Cherry MX Brown provides great tactile feedback for the shift keys, enhancing the typing experience.
- Kailh Speed Copper:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 60g
- Travel Distance: 3.5mm
- Description: Kailh Speed Copper offers responsiveness for the shift keys, ensuring precise actuation.
- Boba U4T Switch:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 62g
- Travel Distance: 3.6mm
- Description: The Boba U4T switch delivers an enjoyable typing sound, making it an excellent choice for the shift keys.
Best Switches for Caps Lock and Tab Key
Both the caps lock and tab keys are well-suited for tactile switches, offering an extraordinary typing experience. Here are the best switches for caps lock and tab keys:
- Cherry MX Brown:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 45g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Cherry MX Brown provides a satisfying bump and a quiet typing sound, making it perfect for caps lock and tab keys.
- Gateron Brown:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 48g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Gateron Brown offers a smooth typing experience on caps lock and tab keys.
- Boba U4T Switch:
- Switch Type: Tactile
- Actuation Force: 62g
- Travel Distance: 3.6mm
- Description: The Boba U4T switch provides a fun and pleasant typing sound, enhancing the caps lock and tab key experience.
Best Switches for “ASDW” Keys for FPS Gaming
For FPS gaming, the “ASDW” keys require fast and responsive actuation. Speed switches are the best fit for this purpose. Here are the top speed switches for FPS gaming:
- Cherry MX Speed Silver:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 45g
- Travel Distance: 3.4mm
- Description: Cherry MX Speed Silver is a reliable choice for FPS gaming, with rapid actuation and a short travel distance.
- Cherry MX Red:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 54g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Cherry MX Red is a top-notch linear switch for FPS gaming, offering an ideal actuation force for precise control.
- Gateron Clear Switch:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 35g
- Travel Distance: 4.0mm
- Description: Gateron Clear provides a lightweight and highly responsive experience, making it an excellent choice for the “ASDW” keys.
Key Considerations When Choosing Switches for Specific Keys
When customizing your mechanical keyboard, it’s essential to choose switches that not only suit your typing or gaming preferences but also cater to the specific functions of each key. Let’s delve deeper into the key considerations when selecting switches for specific keys:
Spacebar Key
The spacebar is a key that sees frequent use in typing and gaming. It’s essential to choose a switch that provides a comfortable typing experience. Linear switches, like the Cherry MX Black, offer smooth keypresses that are perfect for the spacebar. Their linear actuation means there’s no tactile bump or audible click, ensuring uninterrupted, fluid keypresses.
However, for those who appreciate a little tactile feedback without the noise, switches like the Gazzew Boba U4T Thocky are ideal. The slight bump in these tactile switches provides just enough feedback to avoid accidental keypresses. On the other hand, if you enjoy the audible satisfaction of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Jade will provide that with its pronounced tactile feedback.
Backspace Key
The backspace key is typically used for corrections, and you’ll want a switch that allows for precise and effortless actuation. Linear switches, such as the Cherry MX Red, are an excellent choice because of their light actuation force and smooth keypresses, reducing the chance of typos.
Gateron Red offers a similar smooth experience but with a slight variation in actuation force, making it a top contender for those seeking precision. The Kailh Box Black, while slightly heavier in actuation force, adds a degree of responsiveness that can enhance your typing experience on the backspace key.
Enter Key
The enter key is a critical part of your keyboard, and choosing a switch for it should enhance both your typing and gaming experiences. Tactile switches like the Cherry MX Brown are perfect for this purpose, as they provide subtle feedback while remaining relatively quiet.
Kailh Speed Copper offers a more responsive tactile experience with a slightly higher actuation force, catering to those who enjoy a bit more resistance. Meanwhile, the Boba U4T Switch adds a unique element with its tactile feel and pleasant typing sound, ensuring a satisfying experience when using the enter key.
Shift Keys
The shift keys are among the most frequently used keys on a keyboard, making switch selection vital. Tactile switches are an excellent choice because they provide feedback that reduces typing errors. Reusing switches that are also suitable for the enter key, such as the Cherry MX Brown or Kailh Speed Copper, is a practical and efficient decision.
The consistent feel across these keys enhances your overall typing experience, reducing the need to adapt to different switches, especially during gaming sessions where precision is essential.
Caps Lock and Tab Key
The caps lock and tab keys are often overlooked when it comes to switch selection. However, they play a crucial role in your typing experience. Tactile switches, such as the Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Brown, and Boba U4T Switch, are perfect for these keys.
Cherry MX Brown offers a balanced tactile feedback, while Gateron Brown ensures a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The Boba U4T Switch introduces an element of fun with its unique typing sound, making it a great choice for these often-underappreciated keys.
A, S, D, W Keys for FPS Gaming
For FPS gaming, you’ll want switches that provide fast and responsive actuation, reducing the effort required during intense gaming sessions. Speed switches are the ideal choice for the A, S, D, W keys. Cherry MX Speed Silver offers rapid actuation with a very short travel distance, ensuring quick response times.
Cherry MX Red is another excellent linear switch for gaming. Its ideal actuation force makes it highly reliable for FPS games. Gateron Clear Switch is a lightweight and highly responsive option for those who prefer minimal resistance in their switches.
By selecting the right switches for your keyboard, you can elevate your typing and gaming experiences to new heights, ensuring that every keystroke is precisely what you desire.
The Importance of Using Specific Switches on Different Keys
One key aspect of customizability is the ability to choose different switches for specific keys. While it may seem like a niche practice, selecting the right switches for particular keys can significantly impact your typing or gaming experience. Here’s why you should use specific switches on different keys:
1. Tactile Feedback and Comfort
Different keys serve various functions when you type or game. The spacebar, for example, is a frequently used key and often benefits from a smoother, more comfortable switch like a Cherry MX Black. In contrast, keys like the enter key or shift keys are used less frequently but benefit from tactile feedback for precision and comfort.
2. Sound Preferences
Mechanical keyboards are known for their distinct typing sounds, and your preference for these sounds can vary depending on the key. Some users enjoy a quieter typing experience, which is crucial for keys like the spacebar or backspace key, where you may not want an audible distraction. On the other hand, keys like the caps lock and tab keys can benefit from a more audible, satisfying typing sound.
3. Actuation Force
The actuation force, or the amount of force required to press a key, can greatly affect your typing or gaming speed and accuracy. For keys that require frequent and rapid presses, like the “ASDW” keys in FPS gaming, it’s crucial to have switches with a low actuation force to minimize fatigue and enable quicker response times. On the other hand, keys that require precision and slower typing, such as the enter or shift keys, can benefit from slightly heavier actuation.
4. Personal Preferences
Ultimately, the choice of switches for specific keys comes down to personal preference. Some users prefer linear switches across all keys for a consistent feel, while others appreciate the differentiation in switches to cater to specific needs. Customizing your keyboard with switches that suit your typing or gaming style can provide a more enjoyable and productive experience.
5. Preventing Accidental Keystrokes
Certain keys, like the caps lock or shift keys, are larger and easier to press accidentally. Using switches with a slightly higher actuation force or a tactile bump can help reduce the likelihood of accidental keystrokes, preventing typos and errors during typing or gaming.
6. Enhanced Gaming Performance
In gaming, every millisecond matters. The choice of switches on gaming keys like “ASDW” can significantly impact your gaming performance. Speed switches with lower actuation forces can enable quicker response times, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
7. Improved Ergonomics
Customizing your keyboard with specific switches can also contribute to better ergonomics. By tailoring switches to your most frequently used keys, you can reduce strain on your fingers and wrists, ultimately leading to a more comfortable typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice of switches for specific keys on your mechanical keyboard is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your overall typing or gaming experience. Understanding the unique characteristics of different switches and matching them to the keys you use most frequently is essential for maximizing your satisfaction with your keyboard.
For the spacebar, backspace, enter key, shift keys, caps lock, tab key, and the crucial A, S, D, W keys for FPS gaming, we’ve explored the best switches tailored to each key’s requirements. From linear switches for precise and quiet typing to tactile switches for satisfying feedback and pleasant typing sounds, and speed switches for lightning-fast gaming response, there’s a switch that fits the bill for every key on your keyboard.
Remember that the “feel” of a keypress is a highly personal preference, and what works best for you may differ from someone else’s choice. By considering your individual typing or gaming style, you can make informed decisions and create a keyboard setup that perfectly suits your needs.
In the end, the best switches for specific keys are the ones that enhance your overall experience, making every keystroke a pleasure and ensuring you get the most out of your mechanical keyboard. So, whether you’re a writer, a gamer, or a multitasker, choose your switches wisely, and enjoy the benefits of a customized and satisfying typing 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.
