The Best Switch Brands for Mechanical Keyboards

Last Updated on November 19, 2023

Welcome to the ultimate guide on the Best Switch Brands for Mechanical Keyboards. Choosing the right switch is crucial for a seamless typing or gaming experience. In this article, we’ll explore the top brands, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Top 15 Best Switch Brands for Mechanical Keyboards

1. Cherry MX

Cherry MX is widely regarded as one of the best switch brands in the mechanical keyboard industry, known for producing high-quality key switches that offer a satisfying typing and gaming experience. The brand has gained popularity for its durable and precise switches, catering to the preferences of both professional typists and avid gamers. Cherry MX switches are known for their distinct tactile feedback, audible click, and smooth keystrokes, providing users with a customizable and enjoyable typing experience.

One of Cherry MX’s top products is the Cherry MX Red switch, favored by gamers for its linear actuation and smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for rapid key presses. Another notable product is the Cherry MX Brown switch, which strikes a balance between typing and gaming, offering tactile feedback without the audible click. Additionally, the Cherry MX Blue switch is popular among typists who appreciate the audible click and tactile feel with each keypress. Overall, Cherry MX’s commitment to quality and variety has solidified its position as a leading switch brand in the mechanical keyboard market.

2. Gateron

Gateron has emerged as a leading player in the mechanical keyboard switch market, offering a compelling alternative to well-established brands. Renowned for their smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, Gateron switches have gained popularity among both casual users and gaming enthusiasts. The brand is celebrated for its diverse range of switch options, accommodating various preferences in terms of actuation force, tactile feedback, and audible clickiness.

Among Gateron’s standout products, the Gateron Brown switches are often praised for striking a balance between tactile response and quiet operation, making them ideal for both typing and gaming. Gateron Red switches, on the other hand, are favored by gamers for their linear actuation and swift response, promoting rapid keystrokes crucial for gaming performance. The Gateron lineup also includes switches like Gateron Blue, which appeals to users seeking a more audible and tactile typing experience. With a reputation for delivering reliable and affordable switches, Gateron has solidified its position as a top choice in the competitive mechanical keyboard switch market.

3. Kailh

Kailh has emerged as a leading switch brand, gaining recognition for its innovative and high-quality mechanical switches. Known for their precision and durability, Kailh switches are widely used in mechanical keyboards, catering to both gaming and professional typing needs.

One of Kailh’s standout products is the Kailh Box Switch series. These switches feature a unique box design that protects them from dust and moisture, ensuring a longer lifespan and consistent performance. The Kailh Box Switches are available in various variants, including the Clicky, Tactile, and Linear options, catering to different user preferences. The Clicky switches offer audible feedback with each keypress, the Tactile switches provide a discernible bump for tactile feedback, and the Linear switches deliver a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps.

Kailh’s commitment to quality and continuous innovation has solidified its position as a top choice for mechanical switches, making their products a reliable option for gamers, typists, and enthusiasts alike.

4. ZealPC

ZealPC is renowned for producing high-quality mechanical switches that cater to the discerning tastes of keyboard enthusiasts. Their switches are celebrated for their smooth keystrokes, tactile feedback, and durability. ZealPC offers a variety of switch options to accommodate different preferences, including linear, tactile, and clicky switches. One of their standout products is the Zealios V2, a tactile switch that has gained popularity for its buttery-smooth keystrokes and a pronounced tactile bump. Keyboard enthusiasts often praise Zealios V2 for its exceptional typing experience, making it a top choice for those who prioritize tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.

Additionally, ZealPC has extended its product line with the Helios, a silent linear switch, and the Zilent, a silent tactile switch, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience without compromising on performance. The attention to detail, precision engineering, and commitment to providing a superior typing feel make ZealPC a go-to brand for mechanical switches among keyboard enthusiasts seeking the best in the market.

5. Drop

Drop, formerly known as Massdrop, is renowned for its commitment to delivering high-quality products through collaborative design and community-driven innovation. In the realm of mechanical keyboards, Drop has carved out a niche for itself by producing exceptional switches that cater to the preferences of enthusiasts. Their switches are often praised for their smooth keystrokes, satisfying tactile feedback, and customizable actuation points.

One of Drop’s standout switch offerings is the Drop Holy Panda, a collaboration with input from the keyboard enthusiast community. The Holy Panda is celebrated for its unique combination of a tactile bump and a distinctive sound profile. Another noteworthy product is the Drop Halo Clear switch, which boasts a pronounced tactile feel and a heavier actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more deliberate keypress.

In summary, Drop has earned a reputation for creating top-tier switches, with the Drop Holy Panda and Drop Halo Clear standing out as prime examples of their commitment to delivering a superior typing experience for mechanical keyboard aficionados.

6. Everglide

Everglide is a rising star in the realm of mechanical switches, gaining recognition for their exceptional performance and innovation. Known for their smooth keystrokes and durability, Everglide switches offer a satisfying typing or gaming experience. One of their standout products is the Everglide Aqua King switch, renowned for its tactility and responsiveness. The Aqua King switch strikes a balance between a tactile bump and a smooth keystroke, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who value both comfort and precision.

Another notable product from Everglide is the Everglide Crystal Violet switch, which caters to users seeking a unique and vibrant typing experience. These switches are designed with a distinctive purple stem and provide a tactile feel for an enhanced typing or gaming session. Everglide’s commitment to quality and innovation places them among the best switch brands, appealing to keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize performance and a satisfying tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.

7. NovelKeys

NovelKeys has emerged as a frontrunner in the world of mechanical keyboard switches, gaining recognition for its commitment to delivering high-quality and innovative products. Renowned for catering to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts, NovelKeys has built a reputation for producing switches that offer a unique tactile or auditory experience. One of their standout products is the NovelKeys Box Royal switch, celebrated for its pronounced tactile feedback and satisfying typing experience. This switch has gained popularity among users who appreciate a more tactile and responsive feel, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers alike.

Another notable product from NovelKeys is the NovelKeys Cream switch, which has gained acclaim for its smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble. This switch is favored by those who prioritize a quieter typing experience without compromising on performance. NovelKeys’ dedication to providing a diverse range of switches ensures that users can find a switch that suits their individual preferences, whether they prioritize tactile feedback, smooth keystrokes, or a balance of both. Overall, NovelKeys stands out as a top switch brand for its commitment to innovation, quality, and meeting the diverse needs of the mechanical keyboard community.

8. Razer

Razer is widely regarded as one of the leading brands in the gaming peripherals industry, particularly in the realm of gaming keyboards. Renowned for its commitment to innovation and high-quality craftsmanship, Razer keyboards are often favored by gamers for their responsive switches and customizable RGB lighting. The Razer Green mechanical switches, a signature feature in many of their keyboards, provide a tactile and clicky feel that appeals to gamers who prioritize precise key presses. These switches are designed for both gaming and typing, making them versatile for users with varied needs.

One of Razer’s standout products is the Razer BlackWidow Elite, featuring the Razer Green switches, dedicated media controls, and a magnetic wrist rest for enhanced comfort during extended gaming sessions. Another notable offering is the Razer Huntsman Elite, which introduces the innovative Razer Opto-Mechanical switches, combining the tactile feel of mechanical switches with the speed of optical sensors. Razer’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and user experience has solidified its position as a top choice for gamers seeking reliable and high-performance mechanical keyboards.

9. Logitech Romer-G

Logitech, a renowned brand in the tech industry, stands out as a leader in producing high-quality switches for keyboards, notably the Romer-G switches. These switches are celebrated for their exceptional performance and durability, making them a top choice for gamers and professionals alike. The Romer-G switches are designed with a focus on responsiveness and precision, offering a tactile feel without sacrificing the speed of actuation. This makes them ideal for both gaming enthusiasts who demand quick and accurate keystrokes and professionals who require a reliable and efficient typing experience.

Among Logitech’s top products featuring Romer-G switches, the Logitech G Pro X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard deserves special mention. This keyboard not only showcases the excellence of Romer-G switches but also allows users to customize and swap out individual switches according to their preference. This level of customization, coupled with Logitech’s commitment to quality, positions the brand as a standout choice for those seeking top-tier switches in their keyboards. With Logitech’s Romer-G switches, users can expect a satisfying and responsive typing or gaming experience, making it a compelling option in the competitive landscape of switch technology.

10. SteelSeries

SteelSeries is renowned for being a top-tier brand in the gaming peripherals industry, particularly excelling in the realm of gaming switches. Their switches are designed with precision and durability, catering to the needs of professional gamers and enthusiasts alike. The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in their use of mechanical switches that deliver a satisfying tactile feedback and swift response, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

One of SteelSeries’ flagship switch models is the OmniPoint switch, featured in their Apex Pro and Apex Pro TKL mechanical keyboards. What sets the OmniPoint switch apart is its adjustable actuation point, allowing users to customize the key sensitivity to their preference. This level of customization provides a competitive edge for gamers who demand precision and responsiveness in their gameplay. The Apex Pro series, along with other SteelSeries products, solidifies the brand’s reputation for delivering high-performance switches that meet the demands of both casual and professional gamers.

11. Gazzew

Gazzew is known for producing high-quality mechanical keyboard switches that cater to the needs of enthusiasts and gamers alike. Gazzew switches are praised for their smooth keystrokes, tactile feedback, and durability. One of their notable products is the Gazzew Boba U4 Silent Tactile switch, which has gained popularity for its unique design and quiet typing experience. The Boba U4 features a tactile bump, providing users with a satisfying feel while typing or gaming without the audible click sound commonly associated with mechanical switches.

Gazzew has been recognized for its commitment to innovation in the mechanical keyboard community. The brand is appreciated for introducing switches that offer a balance between tactile feedback and noise reduction, making them suitable for various environments.

12. Topre

Topre is a renowned switch brand in the mechanical keyboard community, celebrated for its innovative electrostatic capacitive switches that offer a unique typing experience. Unlike traditional mechanical switches that use metal contacts, Topre switches employ a combination of a rubber dome and a capacitive sensor for actuation. This hybrid design provides a tactile feel with a smooth and quiet keystroke, making it ideal for users who appreciate a balance between typing comfort and responsiveness. Topre switches are often praised for their durability, with a lifespan that exceeds many traditional mechanical switches.

One of Topre’s standout products is the Realforce series, particularly the Realforce R2 PFU Limited Edition. This keyboard showcases Topre switches at their finest, offering a premium typing experience with a satisfying tactile response. Another notable product is the Topre Type Heaven, which combines affordability with the distinctive Topre switch feel, making it an excellent entry point for users looking to explore this switch technology without breaking the bank. Overall, Topre’s commitment to innovation and quality has solidified its position as a top choice for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and satisfying typing experience.

13. Alpaca

Alpaca is a prominent switch brand known for its exceptional quality and performance in the mechanical keyboard community. Specializing in creating switches for enthusiasts and professionals, Alpaca has gained a reputation for delivering a satisfying typing experience. One of their flagship products is the Alpaca Linear switch, celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists alike. The linear design eliminates tactile bumps, resulting in a seamless and uninterrupted keystroke, contributing to faster and more accurate typing.

Another noteworthy product from Alpaca is the Alpaca Tactile switch, designed for users who prefer a tactile feel while typing. This switch combines a tactile bump with a responsive actuation force, providing a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience. Alpaca’s commitment to quality control ensures that each switch meets rigorous standards, making them a trusted choice for those seeking reliable and high-performing mechanical switches. With their dedication to precision and innovation, Alpaca has become synonymous with excellence in the mechanical keyboard community, earning them a spot among the best switch brands.

14. Akko

Akko is renowned for producing high-quality mechanical keyboards, earning a solid reputation in the gaming and typing communities. Their switches are often praised for their smooth keystrokes and durability. One of Akko’s standout switch lines is the Akko CS switches, which come in various options to cater to different preferences. The Akko CS switches are known for their tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a distinct bump with each keypress. The switches also feature a durable construction, ensuring longevity and reliability.

A flagship product showcasing Akko’s excellence is the Akko 3068 mechanical keyboard, which incorporates their top-notch switches. This compact wireless keyboard combines a sleek design with the premium feel of Akko switches, making it a popular choice for both gamers and professionals alike. The Akko 3068 is not only visually appealing but also a testament to Akko’s commitment to delivering a superior typing and gaming experience through their exceptional switches.

15. Outemu

Outemu is a well-regarded switch brand in the mechanical keyboard community, known for delivering high-quality switches that offer a satisfying typing experience. Their switches are popular among enthusiasts and gamers alike due to their durability and tactile feedback. Outemu switches are often considered comparable to other well-known switch brands, providing a cost-effective alternative without compromising on performance.

One of Outemu’s top products is the Outemu Blue switch, which is renowned for its tactile and audible feedback, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a clicky sound with each keypress. Another notable product is the Outemu Red switch, featuring a linear actuation that appeals to gamers seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke for rapid inputs. Overall, Outemu has gained recognition for offering reliable switches with various actuation characteristics, allowing users to customize their keyboard experience based on personal preferences.

Does Switch Brand Matter?

Yes, the choice of switch brand does matter when it comes to mechanical keyboards. The brand of switches significantly influences the overall typing and gaming experience. Different switch brands have distinct characteristics, including actuation force, tactile feedback, and noise level, catering to diverse user preferences. For example, Cherry MX is renowned for its durability and customizable options, offering a variety of switches to suit gamers and typists alike.

Gateron provides a cost-effective alternative with smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation. Brands like ZealPC focus on the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts, offering high-quality switches designed for a superior tactile experience.

The innovation-driven approach of brands like Drop introduces collaborative and community-inspired designs. Each brand brings its unique qualities to the table, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences, whether prioritizing gaming performance, typing comfort, or a balance of both. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of different switch brands is crucial for users to select the one that aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

FAQs

Can I use any switch for gaming?

Yes, many switches are suitable for gaming. It ultimately depends on personal preference, with some gamers preferring tactile switches for precise control, while others opt for linear switches for rapid key presses.

Are mechanical switches louder than membrane switches?

Generally, mechanical switches tend to be louder than membrane switches. However, the noise level varies among different mechanical switches, with some designed to be quieter than others.

What is the actuation force of a switch?

Actuation force refers to the amount of force required to register a keypress. Different switches have varying actuation forces, catering to individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.

Can I replace switches on my keyboard?

If your keyboard supports hot-swappable switches, you can replace them without soldering. However, for non-hot-swappable keyboards, switch replacement may require soldering skills.

Do all mechanical switches have RGB lighting?

No, not all mechanical switches have RGB lighting. The presence of RGB lighting depends on the switch model and the keyboard design. Some switches offer single-color backlighting, while others provide full RGB customization.

How often should I lubricate my switches?

The frequency of switch lubrication depends on usage. Enthusiasts may lubricate switches every few months for optimal performance, while regular users might lubricate them annually. It’s essential to monitor switch feel and sound for indications of dryness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of mechanical keyboards is as diverse as the preferences of its users, and the selection of the right key switch brand can significantly impact the overall typing and gaming experience. From the enduring legacy of Cherry MX to the community-driven innovation of Drop, each brand showcased in this comprehensive guide brings its own unique strengths to the table. Whether you are drawn to the tactile elegance of ZealPC, the cutting-edge technology of Logitech Romer-G, or the cost-effective reliability of Outemu, the options are abundant.

As the demand for customizable, high-performance mechanical keyboards continues to rise, these top switch brands stand as beacons of excellence, meeting the expectations of enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals alike. Whether you seek precision in every keystroke, a tactile typing experience, or a seamless blend of both, the brands discussed in this guide have proven themselves as leaders in the competitive landscape of mechanical keyboard switches.

In this dynamic realm where innovation and quality are paramount, the journey towards finding the best switch brand for your unique needs is both exciting and rewarding. The careful consideration of factors like actuation force, tactile feedback, and audible clickiness will lead you to a switch that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. So, as you embark on your quest for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, let this guide serve as a compass, guiding you towards an elevated typing and gaming experience tailored to your preferences.