Last Updated on August 12, 2023
Mechanical keyboards have witnessed a renaissance in recent years, captivating enthusiasts with their tactile feel, satisfying keystrokes, and customizable options. At the heart of these keyboards are the switches, intricate mechanisms that translate your keystrokes into digital input. As the mechanical keyboard market continues to expand, several prominent switch brands have emerged, each offering a unique experience to users.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, exploring the characteristics, history, and innovations of Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, Drop, Everglide, Moondrop, and NovelKeys switches.
Cherry MX: Pioneering Excellence
Cherry MX stands as a trailblazer in the mechanical keyboard industry. Born in 1983 from the German-American collaboration of ZF Electronics GmbH (Cherry Corporation), these switches have become synonymous with quality and innovation. Catering to various typing preferences, Cherry MX offers a diverse range of switches:
- Cherry MX Red:
- Linear switch
- Light sensation (45g finger pressure)
- Quiet sound level
- 50 million clicks per button durability
- Cherry MX Black:
- Linear switch
- Heavy sensation (60g finger pressure)
- Quiet sound level
- 50 million clicks per button durability
- Cherry MX Blue:
- Tactile switch
- Heavy sensation (60g finger pressure)
- Clicky sound level
- 50 million clicks per button durability
- Cherry MX Brown:
- Tactile switch
- Medium sensation (45g finger pressure)
- Quiet sound level
- 50 million clicks per button durability
- Cherry MX Speed Silver:
- Linear switch
- Light sensation (45g finger pressure)
- Quiet sound level
- 50 million clicks per button durability
Cherry MX’s legacy persists as a benchmark of durability, with switches boasting an astounding lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes. Despite the emergence of new contenders, Cherry MX remains a preferred choice for many, especially those who prioritize reliability and tradition.
Gateron: The Smooth Alternative
Gateron, often hailed as a superior Cherry MX clone, has swiftly gained traction for its smooth keystrokes and affordability. Originating from China, Gateron’s linear switches, such as Gateron Yellow and Gateron Red, have garnered acclaim for their exceptional performance. These switches offer a level of smoothness that rivals even the original Cherry MX.
Gateron’s commitment to delivering an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience is evident in their switches’ design and construction. The precise engineering of Gateron switches results in minimal friction and a consistent keystroke feel, making typing a pleasure.
While Gateron excels in linear switches, Cherry MX still holds its ground in the realm of tactile switches. Cherry MX’s tactile switches are revered for their refined and elegant feel, providing a satisfying typing experience characterized by a subtle bump at the actuation point.
What sets Gateron apart, however, is its competitive pricing without compromising on performance. This value proposition has propelled Gateron into the limelight, making it a strong contender for those seeking quality switches without breaking the bank.
Popular Gateron Switches:
- Gateron Yellow:
- Linear switch
- Smooth keystrokes
- Light sensation (50g actuation force)
- Suitable for gaming and typing
- Budget-friendly
- Gateron Red:
- Linear switch
- Smooth and consistent keystrokes
- Medium sensation (45g actuation force)
- Versatile for various tasks
- Budget-friendly
- Gateron Brown:
- Tactile switch
- Smooth tactile bump
- Medium sensation (45g actuation force)
- Popular choice for typing
- Budget-friendly
Gateron’s lineup extends beyond these switches, offering a range of options to cater to different preferences and uses. Whether you’re a gamer seeking rapid keystrokes or a typist valuing smooth and tactile feedback, Gateron has an option for you.
Kailh: From Clone to Creator
Kailh’s journey began as a Cherry MX clone manufacturer. However, over time, Kailh has evolved to produce its own unique switch models. While elements of Cherry MX’s design still influence Kailh switches, the brand has introduced innovations of its own.
Two standout offerings from Kailh are the Switch BOX and Switch Speed. Switch BOX switches are renowned for their stability, accuracy, and durability, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable typing experience. On the other hand, Switch Speed switches cater to gamers, boasting swift and responsive keystrokes that are particularly well-suited for competitive gaming.
Kailh has also ventured into the clicky switch territory with switches like Kailh Box Jades and Kailh Box Whites. Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts have praised these switches for their distinct tactile and auditory feedback.
Kailh’s evolution from clone manufacturer to creator underscores its commitment to innovation and its aspiration to offer a diverse range of switch options that cater to various typing preferences.
Popular Kailh Switches:
- Kailh Box Jade:
- Clicky switch
- Audible and tactile feedback
- Actuation force: 0.65N
- Ideal for typists who enjoy a clicky response
- Unique and satisfying typing experience
- Kailh Box White:
- Clicky switch
- Similar to Box Jade but with a lighter actuation force
- Actuation force: 0.45N
- Ideal for those who prefer a lighter clicky feel
- Suitable for both typing and gaming
- Kailh Speed Silver:
- Linear switch
- Rapid and responsive keystrokes
- Actuation force: 0.40N
- Popular among gamers for its quick actuation
- Smooth and efficient typing experience
Kailh’s diverse range of switches ensures that users have options tailored to their specific needs, whether they prioritize gaming, typing, or a combination of both.
Drop: Elevating the Experience
Drop, formerly known as Massdrop, has made its mark in the mechanical keyboard community by curating high-quality products, including switches. Collaborating with manufacturers, Drop has introduced switches that cater to various preferences and use cases.
While Drop does not manufacture its switches, it carefully selects and refines switches to offer an enhanced typing experience. This curated approach ensures that users can enjoy a unique blend of qualities, from smooth keystrokes to satisfying tactile feedback.
Popular Drop Switches:
- Drop Holy Panda:
- Tactile switch
- Created through a collaboration between Drop and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts
- Well-defined tactile bump
- Actuation force: 67g
- Highly regarded for its unique typing experience
- Drop Halo Clear:
- Tactile switch
- Designed in collaboration with Input Club
- Moderate tactile bump
- Actuation force: 60g
- Ideal for typists seeking a balanced tactile feel
- Drop Invyr UHMWPE Linear:
- Linear switch
- Smooth and consistent keystrokes
- Actuation force: 67g
- Crafted from a unique polymer material for reduced friction
- Enhanced durability and performance
Drop’s involvement in the mechanical keyboard world extends beyond switches. The platform offers a space for enthusiasts to discover and acquire a wide range of keyboard-related products, fostering a sense of community and exploration.
Everglide: Unleashing Smoothness
Everglide, a rising star in the mechanical keyboard scene, has garnered attention for its focus on smoothness and performance. The brand’s switches are designed to deliver an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience, catering to those who prioritize fluid and comfortable typing.
Everglide’s commitment to smoothness is evident in the construction of its switches, which feature precise engineering to minimize friction and ensure a consistent typing feel. This dedication to delivering smooth keystrokes has positioned Everglide as a brand to watch in the mechanical keyboard switch landscape.
Popular Everglide Switches:
- Everglide Dark Jade:
- Tactile switch
- Well-defined tactile bump
- Actuation force: 67g
- Slightly heavier actuation for those who prefer more resistance
- Suitable for both typing and gaming
- Everglide EG Aqua King Water:
- Linear switch
- Smooth and consistent keystrokes
- Actuation force: 62g
- Offers a balance between smoothness and tactile feedback
- Ideal for versatile typing tasks
Everglide’s dedication to providing a seamless typing experience has resonated with enthusiasts seeking switches that prioritize comfort and fluidity.
Moondrop: Crafting Artful Switches
Moondrop, a relative newcomer to the mechanical keyboard switch arena, has quickly captivated enthusiasts with its meticulously crafted switches. Moondrop switches are characterized by their artistic design, incorporating elements that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
The brand’s dedication to innovation and aesthetics is evident in switches like the Moondrop Aether and Moondrop Starry Night. These switches feature unique keycap designs that not only contribute to a visually stunning keyboard but also enhance the typing experience with their tactile and auditory feedback.
Popular Moondrop Switches:
- Moondrop X G-SQUARE:
- Tactile switch
- For the perfect “thock,” Mech Keys enthusiasts
- Actuation force: 50g
- Offers a tactile bump and smooth keystrokes
- Combines artistic expression with functional design
Moondrop’s commitment to crafting switches that are as visually appealing as they are functional speaks to the brand’s unique approach to enhancing the mechanical keyboard experience.
NovelKeys: Where Novelty Meets Functionality
NovelKeys, as the name suggests, specializes in offering switches that bring novelty and uniqueness to the mechanical keyboard world. With a focus on innovation, NovelKeys has introduced switches that cater to a wide range of preferences and creative visions.
NovelKeys’ offerings include switches that feature distinct tactile sensations, clicky feedback, and even switches with customizable sound profiles. This emphasis on novelty, coupled with functionality, has earned NovelKeys a dedicated following among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Popular NovelKeys Switches:
- NovelKeys Cream:
- Linear switch
- Smooth keystrokes with minimal friction
- Actuation force: 67g
- Provides a buttery typing experience favored by enthusiasts
- Ideal for both typing and gaming
NovelKeys’ commitment to delivering switches that stand out from the crowd has established the brand as a go-to choice for those seeking switches that offer a touch of creativity and uniqueness.
Conclusion: The Best Switch Brands for Mechanical Keyboards
The world of mechanical keyboard switches is a vibrant and dynamic realm, shaped by brands that prioritize innovation, quality, and diversity. From the pioneering excellence of Cherry MX to the smooth keystrokes of Gateron and Kailh, and the curated offerings of Drop, Everglide, Moondrop, and NovelKeys, the choices are extensive and cater to various preferences.
Whether you’re a purist who appreciates the legacy of Cherry MX, an explorer seeking novel and artistic switches, or a user who values smooth keystrokes and affordability, the world of mechanical keyboard switches has something to offer for everyone. As the mechanical keyboard market continues to evolve, the competition among these brands spurs further innovation, ensuring that users will have an even wider array of options in the future. Whichever brand you choose, your journey into the realm of mechanical keyboard switches promises to be a rewarding and enjoyable one.
