The Best Silver Switches for Your Keyboard

Last Updated on November 12, 2023

In the realm of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing or gaming experience. If you’re on the lookout for the best silver switches for your keyboard, you’re in the right place. We’ve curated a list of top-tier options, delving into their specifications, features, and what sets each one apart. Let’s explore the world of silver switches and find the perfect match for your preferences.

Switch	Type	Actuation Force	Actuation Distance	Travel Distance	Special Features and Considerations
Akko V3 Silver Pro	Linear	40g	1.0mm	3.3mm	Alloy copper and palladium gold contacts, dustproof stem design, 5-pin configuration, MX style compatibility, LED customization, estimated lifespan of 60 million keystrokes
Gateron G Silver Pro	Linear	45g	1.2mm	3.4mm	Upgraded pins, frosted light-guided surface, compatibility with front and back RGB lights, fully upgraded LED effects
Cherry MX Speed Silver	Linear	45g	1.2mm	3.4mm	40% reduced actuation distance, precise CAD component, upper housing made from polymeric polymer, durability rated for up to 100 million keystrokes
Kailh Speed Silver	Linear	50g	1.1mm	3.4mm	Low actuation distance, smooth keystroke, 3.4mm total travel distance, affordability, used in well-regarded gaming keyboards
Akko CS Silver	Linear	45g	1.0mm	3.0mm	Dustproof stems, POM stem, copper alloy contact leaf, PA bottom, polycarbonate top housing, affordable, distinctive sound

1. Akko V3 Silver Pro Switch

• Switch Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 40g
• Actuation Distance: 1.0mm
• Travel Distance: 3.3mm

The Akko V3 Silver Pro Keyboard Switches stand out as a premium choice, particularly for gaming enthusiasts seeking a top-tier mechanical keyboard experience. These switches are of the linear type, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without tactile feedback. With an actuation force of 40g, they strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making them ideal for rapid key presses in gaming scenarios.

What sets these switches apart is the incorporation of alloy copper and palladium gold contacts, enhancing conductivity, stability, and overall durability. The dustproof stem design, combined with the 5-pin configuration, ensures a stable and reliable typing experience. The short pre-travel of 1.0 ± 0.5mm is a distinctive feature, making these switches one of the fastest in the Akko CS lineup, specifically tailored for gaming purposes.

Additionally, the MX style compatibility allows for easy integration with a wide range of keycap sets, and the built-in LED slot provides customization options for users looking to add a personalized touch to their keyboards. With an estimated lifespan of approximately 60 million keystrokes, based on rigorous durability tests, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches promise longevity and enduring performance. In summary, these switches offer a compelling combination of speed, durability, and customization, making them a top choice for discerning mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

2. Gateron G Silver Pro 3.0 Switch

• Switch Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 45g
• Actuation Distance: 1.2mm
• Travel Distance: 3.4 mm

The Gateron G Silver Pro 3.0 switch stands out as an exemplary choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. This switch, an upgrade from the G Pro 2.0, features significant improvements that enhance both durability and user experience.

One notable enhancement is the introduction of upgraded pins, specifically designed to address concerns related to bent pins during the plugging and unplugging process. The 0.3-0.33 mm chunky 3-ply pins provide a more reliable connection, ensuring a longer lifespan for the switch. Despite the increased robustness, the hot swap functionality remains unaffected, preserving the seamless user experience.

Compared to its predecessor, the G Pro 3.0 incorporates a frosted light-guided surface, contributing to improved light consistency and brightness. This feature enhances the visual aesthetics of the keyboard, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize both performance and design. The switch’s compatibility with front and back RGB lights, along with its fully upgraded LED effects, further solidify its position as a top-tier option for gaming and office use.

The Gateron G Silver Pro 3.0 switch, with its precise engineering and thoughtful upgrades, offers a satisfying typing experience for users seeking a reliable and visually appealing mechanical keyboard switch.

3. Cherry MX Speed Silver

• Switch Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 45g
• Actuation Distance: 1.2mm
• Travel Distance: 3.4mm

The Cherry MX Speed Silver switch stands out as one of the best options for users seeking a high-performance mechanical keyboard switch. Designed with gaming enthusiasts in mind, the Cherry MX Speed Silver boasts a linear switch type, ensuring a smooth and quiet experience. Its actuation force of 45g, combined with a minimal bottom-out force of 80g, delivers a responsive and effortless keystroke.

What sets the Cherry MX Speed Silver apart is its remarkable actuation distance of just 1.2mm, a 40% reduction compared to traditional switches. This feature is crucial in competitive gaming scenarios where split-second reactions can determine victory or defeat. The switch’s 3.4mm travel distance provides enough key travel for a satisfying typing experience without sacrificing speed.

The construction of the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noteworthy, featuring a precise CAD component in the form of an upper housing made from a polymeric polymer. This design ensures consistent and accurate keystrokes, with a tolerance of less than 0.01mm. Despite its exceptional performance, it’s worth noting that the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be slightly more challenging to obtain and could come at a higher cost for those looking to integrate it into their keyboards. However, the investment is justified by the switch’s durability, rated for up to 100 million keystrokes.

Notable mechanical keyboards equipped with Cherry MX Speed Silver switches include the Durgod Taurus K320 TKL, ASUS ROG Strix Flare, and Corsair K100 RGB, making it a preferred choice for gamers and users who prioritize swift and reliable key inputs.

4. Kailh Speed Silver

• Switch Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 50g
• Actuation Distance: 1.1mm
• Travel Distance: 3.4mm

The Kailh Speed Silver switch stands out as a top choice for keyboard enthusiasts, particularly those who value a linear switch experience. This switch type is classified as linear, ensuring a consistent and smooth keystroke without tactile bumps or audible clicks. Operating with an actuation force of 50g, the Kailh Speed Silver strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for both gaming and regular typing.

What sets the Kailh Speed Silver apart is its low actuation distance of 1.1mm. This means that the switch registers key presses with a minimal amount of travel, providing users with a swift and precise typing or gaming experience. The 3.4mm total travel distance is also noteworthy, giving users enough room to engage in various activities without bottoming out unnecessarily.

Priced at $0.42 per switch, the Kailh Speed Silver offers an affordable yet high-quality option for those seeking a reliable linear switch. Its popularity is evident in its use in well-regarded gaming keyboards like the EVGA Z15 RGB. Whether you are a gamer seeking a competitive edge or a typist aiming for accuracy, the Kailh Speed Silver’s 50g actuation force and smooth linear feel make it a standout choice among silver switches.

5. Akko CS Silver Switch

• Switch Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 45g
• Actuation Distance: 1.0mm
• Travel Distance: 3.0mm

The Akko CS Silver Switch stands out as a top-performing linear switch with a range of features that make it an ideal choice, especially for gaming enthusiasts. This switch is categorized as linear, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. With an actuation force of 45g and an actuation distance of just 1mm, the Akko CS Silver Switch offers rapid response times, making it perfect for quick and precise keystrokes during gaming sessions.

One notable feature contributing to the switch’s stability is the inclusion of dustproof stems. These stems enhance the overall durability and reliability of the switch, ensuring a consistent performance over time. The composition of the switch includes a stem made of POM, a contact leaf of copper alloy, a bottom made of PA, and a top housing constructed from polycarbonate.

Priced at $0.42 per switch, the Akko CS Silver Switch provides an affordable option without compromising on quality. Users can expect a “buttery yet tappy” sound right out of the box, making it an enjoyable and tactile experience even without additional lubrication. The switch’s 3mm travel distance adds to the overall comfort, striking a balance between speed and stability.

In comparison to other switches in the market, the Akko CS Silver Switch shares similarities with Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Silver Pro. However, what sets it apart is its ability to deliver a more comfortable typing feel and a distinctive sound. The built-in LED slot also adds versatility, allowing for LED modifications and assembly. Overall, the Akko CS Silver Switch stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance linear switch at an affordable price point.

What Are Silver Switches?

Silver switches refer to a type of mechanical keyboard switch characterized by specific performance attributes. These switches are part of the broader category of mechanical switches, which are widely used in mechanical keyboards due to their durability, responsiveness, and tactile feel. The term “silver” in the context of these switches typically denotes a specific set of characteristics related to actuation force, actuation distance, and overall design.

Here are the key features that define silver switches:

1. Switch Type: Linear
   • Silver switches are categorized as linear switches. This means that they lack tactile feedback or audible clicks during key presses. The keystroke is smooth and consistent, making them particularly well-suited for gaming scenarios that require rapid and precise key presses.
2. Actuation Force: Light
   • Silver switches are known for having a relatively low actuation force. Actuation force refers to the amount of force required to register a key press. In the case of silver switches, this force is on the lighter side, typically ranging from 40g to 50g. The lower actuation force allows for quick and effortless key presses, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch.
3. Actuation Distance: Short
   • The actuation distance is the distance a key must be pressed down for the switch to register a key press. Silver switches are characterized by a short actuation distance, usually around 1.0mm to 1.2mm. This short distance means that the keys register input with minimal travel, making them highly responsive and suitable for fast-paced activities like gaming.
4. Travel Distance: Standard
   • The travel distance refers to the total distance a key can be pressed down. Silver switches typically have a standard travel distance of around 3.3mm to 3.4mm. While not as short as the actuation distance, this provides enough key travel for a satisfying typing experience without sacrificing the overall speed and responsiveness of the switch.
5. Use Cases: Gaming and Typing
   • Due to their characteristics—such as low actuation force and short actuation distance—silver switches are often preferred by gamers, especially those engaged in competitive gaming where quick reflexes and response times are crucial. However, these switches can also be suitable for general typing tasks, offering a comfortable and efficient typing experience.
6. Variants from Different Manufacturers
   • Various manufacturers produce silver switches, each with its own design and specifications. Some well-known variants include the Cherry MX Speed Silver, Gateron Silver Pro, Akko V3 Silver Pro, Kailh Speed Silver, and Akko CS Silver, each offering a slightly different take on the silver switch concept.

In summary, silver switches are a specific type of linear mechanical keyboard switch designed for users who prioritize speed, responsiveness, and a smooth keystroke experience, particularly in gaming scenarios. These switches have gained popularity for their ability to deliver rapid and precise inputs, making them a preferred choice for a wide range of users, from gamers to typists seeking a swift and efficient typing experience.

Why Choose Silver Switches?

Choosing silver switches for your mechanical keyboard can significantly impact your typing and gaming experience. Silver switches, often categorized as linear switches, have specific characteristics that make them appealing to a broad range of users. Here are several reasons why you might consider silver switches for your keyboard:

1. Swift and Responsive Keystrokes:
   • Silver switches are known for their low actuation force, typically around 45-50g. This means it takes minimal force to register a keypress, making them ideal for swift and responsive typing or gaming.
2. Reduced Actuation Distance:
   • One of the defining features of silver switches is their short actuation distance, often around 1.0-1.2mm. This reduced distance means the key registers with a slight press, enabling faster response times, crucial in competitive gaming scenarios.
3. Smooth and Linear Feel:
   • Silver switches provide a smooth and linear keystroke without tactile bumps or audible clicks. This feature makes them suitable for users who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience, avoiding the tactile feedback present in other switch types.
4. Gaming Performance:
   • Gamers, especially those involved in fast-paced games, benefit from the quick actuation and reduced travel distance of silver switches. These characteristics contribute to rapid and precise key inputs, providing a competitive edge in gaming.
5. Versatility with Keycap Sets:
   • Many silver switches, such as those compatible with MX-style keycaps, offer versatility in keycap customization. This means users can easily replace keycaps with a wide range of options, personalizing the look and feel of their keyboard.
6. Enhanced Aesthetics:
   • Some silver switches come with additional features, such as RGB lighting compatibility. This enhances the visual appeal of your keyboard, creating a dynamic and customizable lighting experience.
7. Durable Construction:
   • Silver switches from reputable brands often boast durable construction, ensuring longevity and consistent performance over time. This durability is essential for users who demand reliability from their mechanical keyboards.
8. Preference for Linear Switches:
   • Individuals who prefer a linear typing experience without the tactile bump of switches like Cherry MX Browns or Blues find silver switches to be a satisfying choice. The absence of tactile feedback allows for a smooth and uninterrupted typing flow.
9. Balanced Actuation Force:
   • With actuation forces typically around 45-50g, silver switches strike a balance between being responsive and providing a comfortable typing experience. This balance caters to both gaming enthusiasts and those who use their keyboards for extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, choosing silver switches for your keyboard is a decision driven by the need for speed, responsiveness, and a smooth typing experience. Whether you’re a gamer seeking a competitive edge or a typist aiming for efficiency, silver switches offer a compelling combination of features that make them a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the quest for the best silver switches for your keyboard unveils a diverse array of options, each meticulously designed to cater to specific preferences and use cases. From the lightning-fast Akko V3 Silver Pro, perfect for gaming enthusiasts seeking speed and durability, to the aesthetically enhanced Gateron G Silver Pro 3.0, offering a seamless blend of style and performance, the choices are abundant.

The Cherry MX Speed Silver stands out with unparalleled gaming prowess, boasting a reduced actuation distance for split-second reactions. Meanwhile, the Kailh Speed Silver strikes a balance between affordability and precision, making it an attractive option for both gamers and typists.

Closing the list is the Akko CS Silver Switch, presenting an affordable yet high-performance linear switch with a distinctive sound and comfortable typing feel. Its affordability doesn’t compromise on quality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option.