Last Updated on April 24, 2023
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the switches are a crucial element that determines the typing experience. There are many different types of switches available on the market, each with its own unique characteristics. However, for many typists, the speed at which a key can be pressed and registered is a top priority. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the fastest switches for mechanical keyboards and provide you with all the information you need to choose the right switch for your needs.
Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Mechanical keyboard switches are a type of switch that uses a physical mechanism to register keystrokes. They are different from membrane keyboards, where the keys are registered using a rubber dome. With mechanical switches, each key has its own switch mechanism, resulting in a more tactile and responsive typing experience. This type of keyboard also produces a satisfying clicking sound that many people enjoy.
There are three main types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches have a smooth and consistent force curve throughout the key press. Tactile switches have a bump in the middle of the key press, providing feedback to the typist. Clicky switches are similar to tactile switches, but they also produce an audible “click” sound when the key is pressed.
Linear switches are popular among gamers because they provide a consistent and predictable feel, making them ideal for rapid keystrokes. Tactile switches are preferred by many writers because the bump in the middle of the key press provides tactile feedback that helps reduce errors. Clicky switches are often used in environments where the sound of typing is not a concern, such as in a home office or gaming setup.
Different switch manufacturers have their own proprietary designs, resulting in variations in the feel and sound of the switches. Some popular switch manufacturers include Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh. When choosing a mechanical keyboard, it is important to consider the type of switch that will best suit your needs and preferences.
Mechanical Switches vs. Membrane Switches
Keyboard switches are an essential component of any computer keyboard. They determine how responsive and tactile the keys are when typing. There are two primary types of keyboard switches: mechanical switches and membrane switches.
Mechanical switches use individual mechanical components for each key. These components consist of a stem, a spring, and a housing. When a key is pressed, the stem moves down, compressing the spring and completing a circuit to register the keypress. Mechanical switches are known for their tactile feedback, which is the satisfying feeling of a key bottoming out and rebounding after being pressed. They also tend to be more durable and longer-lasting than membrane switches.
Membrane switches, on the other hand, use a flexible membrane layer that contains circuits for each key. When a key is pressed, the membrane layer is pushed down onto a circuit layer, completing the circuit and registering the keypress. Membrane switches are typically quieter and less expensive than mechanical switches but are also less durable and have less tactile feedback.
The advantages of mechanical switches over membrane switches include:
- Durability: Mechanical switches are more durable than membrane switches and can last for years with proper care.
- Tactile feedback: Mechanical switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback when a key is pressed, making them ideal for typing-intensive tasks.
- Customization: Mechanical switches can be customized with different keycaps and colors, making them a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts.
Factors to consider when choosing keyboard switches include:
- Typing preference: The typing experience is subjective, and some people prefer a softer or louder keystroke than others. It’s essential to consider your typing preferences when choosing a keyboard switch.
- Use case: The intended use case of the keyboard should also be taken into account. For example, gamers may prefer clicky switches for their audible feedback, while writers may prefer tactile switches for their responsiveness.
- Noise level: The noise level of the keyboard switch can be a consideration if you are sharing a workspace with others.
In summary, understanding keyboard switches is essential for choosing the right keyboard for your needs. Mechanical switches offer durability and tactile feedback, while membrane switches are more affordable and quieter. Choosing the right keyboard switch depends on your typing preference, use case, and noise level requirements.
What Makes a Switch Fast?
A mechanical keyboard switch is composed of several components that determine its performance, including actuation force, actuation point, reset point, travel distance, and force curve. These factors work together to affect the speed and accuracy of a switch.
- Actuation force refers to the amount of pressure needed to activate a key. The lower the actuation force, the faster a switch can be activated. Lighter switches are ideal for rapid typing and gaming.
- Actuation point is the distance a key must travel before registering an input. It’s measured in millimeters (mm) and is often between 1.5-2mm. A shorter actuation point means less travel distance and quicker key response.
- Reset point is the point at which a key returns to its original position. A faster reset point allows for quicker typing and faster response times.
- Travel distance is the distance a key travels when pressed. A shorter travel distance allows for quicker input and less finger fatigue. Travel distance is typically between 2-4mm.
- Force curve describes the amount of force required to press a key throughout its travel distance. Different switches have varying force curves, which can affect how they feel to type on. Some switches require more force at the beginning of the travel distance, while others require more force towards the end. A force curve that starts low and ramps up towards the bottom of the travel distance is often preferred for its ease of use.
Overall, a fast switch on a mechanical keyboard is one that has a low actuation force, short actuation point and travel distance, fast reset point, and a force curve that’s comfortable for the user. Choosing a switch that’s optimized for speed can greatly improve typing and gaming performance.
The Fastest Switches for Mechanical Keyboards
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OmniPoint Adjustable | <1ms | 45g | 0.4 – 3.6mm | 0.4mm | 3.6mm | Linear |
| Razer Red Optical | <1ms | 45g | 1.0mm | 0.2mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
| Corsair OPX RGB Optical | <1ms | 45g | 1.0mm | 0.2mm | 3.2mm | Tactile, with a bump at 1.5mm and a reset point at 0.2mm |
| LK Optical Clicky | <1ms | 60g | 1.5mm | 0.5mm | 3.5mm | Clicky, with an audible and tactile feedback at actuation |
| Gateron Optical Yellow | <1ms | 50g | 1.1mm | 0.5mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
| Cherry MX Speed Silver | <1ms | 45g | 1.2mm | 0.2mm | 3.4mm | Linear |
| Kailh Speed Silver | <1ms | 40g | 1.1mm | 0.3mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
| Gateron Silver Pro | <1ms | 45g | 1.0mm | 0.2mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
| Kailh Speed Copper | <1ms | 40g | 1.1mm | 0.3mm | 3.5mm | Tactile, with a bump at 1.1mm and a reset point at 0.3mm |
| Razer Yellow Mechanical | <1ms | 45g | 1.2mm | 0.2mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
| Akko CS Silver | <1ms | 35g | 1.5mm | 0.3mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
OmniPoint Adjustable Switch
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OmniPoint Adjustable Switch | <1ms | 45g – 71g | 0.4 – 3.6mm | 0.4mm | 3.6mm | Linear |
The OmniPoint Adjustable Switch is a type of switch that can be found in the SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical keyboard. It is known for being one of the fastest switches available on the market due to its extremely low response time of less than 1 millisecond.
This switch is also unique in that it allows for adjustable actuation points, meaning that the distance required to register a key press can be customized to suit individual preferences. The actuation force required for the OmniPoint switch is between 45 grams and 71 grams, which is relatively light compared to other switches.
The actuation point for the OmniPoint switch ranges from 0.4 to 3.6 millimeters, with a reset point of 0.4mm. This means that the switch is very sensitive and can register key presses with very little force or travel distance.
In terms of the force curve, the OmniPoint switch has a linear feel, which means that there is a consistent amount of force required throughout the entire key press. This can be beneficial for gamers who require quick and precise movements in their games.
Overall, the OmniPoint Adjustable Switch is a high-performance switch that is ideal for gamers or anyone who requires fast and precise typing. Its adjustable actuation points, low response time, and linear force curve make it one of the fastest and most customizable switches available on the market.
Razer Red Optical Switch
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Razer Red Optical | <1ms | 45g | 1.0mm | 0.2mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
Razer Red Optical switches are a type of mechanical switch used in Razer’s line of gaming keyboards, including the Huntsman V2 Optical Gaming Keyboard, Huntsman Tournament Edition TKL, Huntsman Mini, and Huntsman Elite. These switches are known for their fast response time, which is less than 1 millisecond, making them some of the fastest switches available for mechanical keyboards.
In addition to their fast response time, Razer Red Optical switches have a low actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that it takes very little force to activate the switch. The actuation point, or the point at which the switch is registered, is set at 1.0mm, which is relatively shallow. This means that you don’t have to press down very far to register a keystroke, which can be beneficial in fast-paced gaming scenarios.
The reset point, which is the point at which the switch returns to its original position, is set at 0.2mm. This means that the switch is very responsive and can register multiple keystrokes in rapid succession. The travel distance of the switch is 3.5mm, which is fairly standard for a mechanical keyboard switch.
Razer Red Optical switches have a linear force curve, meaning that the amount of force required to activate the switch remains constant throughout the keypress. This can be beneficial for gamers who prefer a consistent feel when typing or gaming.
Overall, Razer Red Optical switches are a great choice for gamers who want a fast, responsive keyboard that can keep up with their gameplay. The combination of low actuation force, shallow actuation point, and fast response time make these switches some of the fastest and most responsive switches available on the market.
Corsair OPX RGB Optical Switch
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corsair OPX RGB Optical | <1ms | 45g | 1.0mm | 0.2mm | 3.2mm | Tactile, with a bump at 1.5mm and a reset point at 0.2mm |
The Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch is a type of mechanical switch that is designed to be one of the fastest and most responsive switches available on the market. It is a highly rated switch that is used in some of Corsair’s most advanced gaming keyboards, including the Corsair K100 RGB Optical Gaming Keyboard and the Corsair K70 PRO RGB Optical Gaming Keyboard.
One of the main advantages of the Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch is its response time. The switch has a response time of less than 1 millisecond, which means that it is incredibly fast and responsive. This makes it ideal for competitive gaming, where every millisecond counts.
The actuation force of the Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch is 45g, which is a relatively light force. This means that the switch is easy to press and requires less effort than some other switches. The actuation point of the switch is 1.0mm, which means that it only needs to be pressed down by 1mm to register a keystroke.
The reset point of the Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch is 0.2mm, which means that it resets quickly after each keystroke. This helps to reduce the amount of time it takes for the switch to return to its original position after a keystroke. The travel distance of the switch is 3.2mm, which is the distance that the switch travels from its initial position to its actuation point.
The Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch has a tactile force curve, which means that it has a bump at 1.5mm that provides tactile feedback to the user. This helps to provide a more satisfying typing experience and makes it easier to know when a keystroke has been registered. The reset point of the switch is 0.2mm, which means that it resets quickly after each keystroke.
Overall, the Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch is a highly responsive and tactile switch that is designed to provide a fast and satisfying typing experience. It is ideal for gamers who need a fast and responsive switch that can help them gain a competitive edge. If you are looking for a high-quality mechanical switch for your keyboard, the Corsair OPX RGB Optical switch is definitely worth considering.
LK Optical Clicky Switch
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LK Optical Clicky | <1ms | 60g | 1.5mm | 0.5mm | 3.5mm | Clicky, with an audible and tactile feedback at actuation |
LK Optical Clicky switches are one of the fastest switches available for mechanical keyboards. These switches are a product of Light Strike technology developed by Bloody, a company that specializes in gaming peripherals. The EVGA Z20 RGB Optical Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Bloody B840 Light Strike LK Optical Gaming Keyboard, B720 Light Strike Optical Gaming Keyboard, and B930 TKL Tenkeyless Optical Switch Gaming Keyboard are some examples of products that use these switches.
One of the main advantages of LK Optical Clicky switches is their incredibly fast response time of less than 1 millisecond. This is because the switches use infrared light to register keystrokes, which is much faster than traditional mechanical switches that rely on physical contact to register keystrokes. This makes LK Optical Clicky switches ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts.
In terms of actuation force, LK Optical Clicky switches require 60 grams of force to actuate, which is a moderate amount. The actuation point is at 1.5mm, which means that a key press will register once the key is pressed down to this point. The reset point, where the key will return to its original position, is at 0.5mm. This short reset point allows for faster double-tapping and reduces fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
The travel distance of LK Optical Clicky switches is 3.5mm, which is standard for most mechanical switches. The force curve of these switches is clicky, which means that there is an audible and tactile feedback at actuation. This feedback can help with typing accuracy and is also preferred by many gamers for the extra sensory feedback it provides.
In summary, LK Optical Clicky switches are one of the fastest switches available for mechanical keyboards, with a response time of less than 1 millisecond. They require 60 grams of force to actuate and have an actuation point of 1.5mm and a reset point of 0.5mm. These switches have a travel distance of 3.5mm and a clicky force curve, providing an audible and tactile feedback at actuation.
Gateron Optical Yellow
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gateron Optical Yellow | <1ms | 50g | 1.1mm | 0.5mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
Gateron Optical Yellow switches are one of the fastest switches available for mechanical keyboards. These switches have a response time of less than 1ms, which is extremely quick and ideal for fast typists and gamers. The switches are also linear, which means they do not have a tactile bump or click sound, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience.
The actuation force of the Gateron Optical Yellow switches is 50g, which is considered medium-light. This means that the switches require a relatively light amount of force to register a keystroke. The actuation point of the switches is 1.1mm, which is slightly deeper than some other switches, but still shallow enough to provide a quick typing experience.
The reset point of the Gateron Optical Yellow switches is 0.5mm, which is quite shallow. This means that the switches can be quickly reset after a keystroke, allowing for faster typing and gaming performance. The travel distance of the switches is 3.5mm, which is considered standard for mechanical switches.
The force curve of the Gateron Optical Yellow switches is linear, which means that the force required to actuate the switch is consistent throughout the entire keystroke. This provides a smooth and predictable typing experience, which is ideal for gamers who need to make quick and precise movements.
Some popular keyboards that use Gateron Optical Yellow switches include the EPOMAKER SKYLOONG GK75 Lite, HK GAMING GK61, DIERYA DK61E 60% Gaming Keyboard, and ASCENY GK61. These keyboards are all designed to provide a fast and responsive typing experience, making them ideal for gamers, programmers, and anyone who needs to type quickly and accurately.
Cherry MX Speed Silver
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry MX Speed Silver | <1ms | 45g | 1.2mm | 0.2mm | 3.4mm | Linear |
Cherry MX Speed Silver is a type of mechanical switch used in many gaming keyboards. It is known for its incredibly fast response time, making it one of the best options for gamers who need quick and accurate keystrokes.
One of the main advantages of Cherry MX Speed Silver switches is their response time, which is less than 1 millisecond. This means that the switch registers the keystroke almost instantly, giving the user an advantage in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts.
The actuation force of Cherry MX Speed Silver switches is 45g, which is relatively light compared to other switches. This means that it requires less force to actuate the switch, making it easier and quicker to press the keys.
The actuation point of Cherry MX Speed Silver switches is 1.2mm, which is relatively shallow compared to other switches. This means that the user doesn’t have to press the key as far down to register the keystroke, which can result in faster and more accurate typing and gaming.
The reset point of Cherry MX Speed Silver switches is 0.2mm, which is very shallow compared to other switches. This means that the switch returns to its original position very quickly after being pressed, allowing for rapid keystrokes.
The travel distance of Cherry MX Speed Silver switches is 3.4mm, which is relatively standard for mechanical switches. This is the total distance that the key travels from the resting position to the bottoming out point.
Finally, the force curve of Cherry MX Speed Silver switches is linear, which means that the force required to press the key is consistent throughout the keystroke. This makes the switch feel smooth and consistent, which can be beneficial for gamers who need to make precise movements.
Some popular gaming keyboards that use Cherry MX Speed Silver switches include:
- Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Durgod Taurus K320 TKL Mechanical Keyboard
- CORSAIR K70 RGB TKL
- Corsair K60 RGB Pro Low Profile Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Rapidfire Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Corsair K65 RGB MINI 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.
Kailh Speed Silver
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kailh Speed Silver | <1ms | 40g | 1.1mm | 0.3mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
Kailh Speed Silver is a type of mechanical keyboard switch that has gained popularity for being one of the fastest switches available in the market. It is used in a variety of mechanical keyboards, including the EVGA Z15 RGB Gaming Keyboard and the DROP ALT Mechanical Keyboard.
One of the key features of the Kailh Speed Silver switch is its ultra-fast response time of less than 1 millisecond. This means that the switch can register a keystroke almost instantly, making it ideal for gamers and typists who require quick and accurate inputs. The switch is also designed to have a linear force curve, which means that the amount of force required to actuate the switch remains constant throughout its travel distance.
The actuation force of the Kailh Speed Silver switch is 40 grams, which is considered to be relatively light. This means that users don’t have to apply too much pressure to register a keystroke, making it easier to type or game for extended periods of time. The actuation point of the switch is 1.1mm, which is slightly higher than some other switches, and the reset point is 0.3mm, which means that the switch can be quickly reset to its original position after being actuated.
The travel distance of the Kailh Speed Silver switch is 3.5mm, which is fairly standard for mechanical switches. This means that users will feel a tactile bump when the switch is actuated, but they will not need to travel the full distance to register a keystroke. Overall, the Kailh Speed Silver switch is a great choice for those who want a fast and responsive keyboard that can keep up with their typing or gaming needs.
Gateron Silver Pro
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gateron Silver Pro | <1ms | 45g | 1.0mm | 0.2mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
Gateron Silver Pro is a type of mechanical switch used in keyboards, known for its extremely fast response time and linear force curve. It is considered to be one of the fastest switches available in the market.
The response time of Gateron Silver Pro is less than 1 millisecond, making it highly responsive and suitable for fast-paced gaming or typing. This means that the keystrokes register almost instantly, providing a seamless experience to the user.
The actuation force of Gateron Silver Pro is 45g, which is a relatively light force required to register a keystroke. This makes it easy to type or game for long periods without experiencing fatigue or strain.
The actuation point of Gateron Silver Pro is 1.0mm, which means that the keystroke registers at a depth of 1.0mm. This is considered to be a shallow actuation point, making the switch even more responsive.
The reset point of Gateron Silver Pro is 0.2mm, which means that the switch returns to its original position after a keystroke at a depth of 0.2mm. This short reset point enables the user to type or game quickly without having to lift their fingers too high.
The travel distance of Gateron Silver Pro is 3.5mm, which is the distance that the switch travels when a keystroke is registered. This distance is relatively short, making it easier and faster to type or game.
Finally, Gateron Silver Pro has a linear force curve, meaning that it requires the same amount of force to register a keystroke from the beginning to the end of its travel distance. This provides a consistent and predictable typing or gaming experience.
Overall, Gateron Silver Pro is a highly responsive and fast switch, making it an excellent choice for gamers or anyone who wants a fast and seamless typing experience. It is used in a variety of keyboards, including the KEMOVE K68 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard and the KBParadise V65.
Kailh Speed Cooper
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kailh Speed Copper | <1ms | 40g | 1.1mm | 0.3mm | 3.5mm | Tactile, with a bump at 1.1mm and a reset point at 0.3mm |
Kailh Speed Copper switches are one of the fastest switches for mechanical keyboards available in the market. They are used in various mechanical keyboards, including the popular Ducky One 2 Mini. These switches are designed to be very responsive, providing users with a fast and tactile typing experience.
One of the main advantages of Kailh Speed Copper switches is their fast response time. They have a response time of less than 1 millisecond, which means that they register keystrokes almost instantly. This makes them ideal for gamers and anyone who needs a quick and responsive keyboard.
The actuation force of Kailh Speed Copper switches is 40g, which is relatively light. This means that the keys are easy to press, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The actuation point of these switches is 1.1mm, which is where the key registers a keystroke. The reset point is 0.3mm, which is where the switch returns to its original position after a keystroke. This short distance between the actuation and reset points allows for quick and smooth typing.
Kailh Speed Copper switches are tactile, with a bump at the 1.1mm actuation point. This provides users with a clear indication that a keystroke has been registered. The force curve of these switches is also relatively flat, which means that they require a consistent amount of force to actuate. This makes them suitable for both typing and gaming.
In terms of travel distance, Kailh Speed Copper switches have a travel distance of 3.5mm. This is the distance that the key travels from its resting position to the bottom of the switch. This distance is relatively short, which means that users don’t have to press the keys very far to register a keystroke.
Overall, Kailh Speed Copper switches are a popular choice for anyone looking for a fast, responsive, and tactile keyboard switch. They are ideal for gamers, typists, and anyone who values speed and precision in their keyboard.
Razer™ Yellow Mechanical Switch
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Razer Yellow Mechanical | <1ms | 45g | 1.2mm | 0.2mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
Razer Yellow Mechanical is a type of mechanical switch that is commonly used in gaming keyboards. This switch is known for being one of the fastest and most responsive switches available, with a response time of less than 1 millisecond. This makes it ideal for gamers who need to react quickly to in-game situations.
The Razer Yellow Mechanical switch has a linear force curve, which means that the force required to press the key remains consistent throughout the entire key press. This can be beneficial for gamers who need to perform rapid keystrokes, as it allows for more precise control over their movements. The actuation force required to press the key is 45g, which is considered to be relatively light. This can make the keys easier to press, reducing the amount of fatigue that a user may experience during extended gaming sessions.
The actuation point of the Razer Yellow Mechanical switch is 1.2mm, which is slightly higher than some other switches on the market. This means that the key needs to be pressed slightly further down before it registers as a keystroke. However, the reset point is only 0.2mm, which means that the key will return to its original position quickly after it has been pressed. This can be beneficial for gamers who need to perform rapid keystrokes, as it allows them to quickly move on to the next action.
The travel distance of the Razer Yellow Mechanical switch is 3.5mm, which is considered to be medium. This means that the keys have a moderate amount of travel, which can provide a satisfying tactile feedback for users. The Razer Yellow Mechanical switch is also known for being relatively quiet, which can be beneficial for users who want to avoid disturbing others around them.
The Razer Yellow Mechanical switch is used in several different Razer keyboards, including the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, Razer BlackWidow V3 Tenkeyless, Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed, Razer BlackWidow Elite Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, and Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard. If you are a gamer who values speed and responsiveness, then the Razer Yellow Mechanical switch may be a good choice for you.
Akko CS Silver
| Switch | Response Time | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Reset Point | Travel Distance | Force Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akko CS Silver | <1ms | 35g | 1.5mm | 0.3mm | 3.5mm | Linear |
Akko CS Silver is a type of mechanical keyboard switch that is considered one of the fastest switches available in the market. It is being used in the Akko 5075B Plus Mechanical Keyboard.
This switch has a response time of less than 1 millisecond, which means that it can register keystrokes very quickly. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers or anyone who requires a fast and responsive keyboard.
The actuation force required to activate this switch is only 35g, which is relatively light compared to other mechanical switches. This means that typing or gaming on this keyboard requires less force and can result in less fatigue over extended use.
The actuation point for this switch is at 1.5mm, which is the distance the key must be pressed down before the keystroke is registered. The reset point is at 0.3mm, which is the distance the key must be released before it is ready for another keystroke.
The travel distance for this switch is 3.5mm, which is the distance the key travels from the resting position to the bottoming out position. This is a relatively short distance compared to other mechanical switches, which can make typing or gaming on this keyboard faster and more efficient.
Finally, the force curve for this switch is linear, which means that the force required to press down the key is consistent throughout the entire travel distance. This can make typing or gaming on this keyboard more predictable and accurate.
Overall, Akko CS Silver is a fast and responsive switch that is well-suited for gaming and typing. Its light actuation force, short travel distance, and linear force curve make it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
The Fastest Mechanical Switches
The following is a list of the fastest mechanical switches on the market today:
- Cherry MX Speed Silver
- Kailh Speed Silver
- Gateron Silver Pro Switch
- Kailh Speed Cooper
- Razer™ Yellow Mechanical Switch
- Akko CS Silver Switch
The Fastest Optical Switches
The following is an order of the fastest Optical Switches on the market today:
- OmniPoint Adjustable Switches
- Razer Red Optical Switch
- Corsair OPX RGB Optical Switch
- LK Optical Clicky Switches
- Gateron Optical Yellow
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Fastest Switch
When choosing the fastest switch for your keyboard, there are several factors to consider:
- Typing vs. Gaming: The type of switch you choose will depend on your intended use. If you plan to use your keyboard for typing, you may want a switch with a tactile bump or a clicky sound. If you plan to use your keyboard for gaming, you may want a switch with a linear feel that requires less force to actuate.
- Personal preference: The type of switch you choose will also depend on personal preference. Some people prefer switches with a tactile bump or a clicky sound, while others prefer switches with a linear feel. It is important to try out different switches to determine which one feels the most comfortable for you.
- Noise level: Switches with a tactile bump or a clicky sound tend to be noisier than switches with a linear feel. If you plan to use your keyboard in a shared space or a quiet environment, you may want to consider a switch with a linear feel that produces less noise.
- Price: The cost of switches can vary greatly. Generally, switches with a tactile bump or a clicky sound tend to be more expensive than switches with a linear feel. It is important to consider your budget when choosing a switch.
Overall, when choosing the fastest switch for your keyboard, it is important to consider your intended use, personal preference, noise level, and budget. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a switch that meets your needs and provides the best possible typing or gaming experience.
Maintenance and Care for Fast Switches
Fast switches, also known as mechanical switches, are an essential component of many electronic devices. They are used in keyboards, gaming mice, and other devices that require quick and precise inputs. To ensure that these switches work effectively, it’s important to maintain and care for them properly. In this response, I will explain how to clean and lubricate fast switches, as well as how to replace them if necessary.
Cleaning tips:
Fast switches can accumulate dirt and debris over time, which can affect their performance. To clean them, you will need a soft-bristled brush, compressed air, and isopropyl alcohol.
- Begin by unplugging the device and removing any keycaps or covers that cover the switches.
- Use the soft-bristled brush to gently remove any visible dirt or debris from the switches.
- Use compressed air to blow out any remaining dirt or debris from the switches.
- Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and use it to clean the contacts of the switches.
- Allow the switches to dry completely before reassembling the device.
Lubrication techniques:
Lubricating fast switches can help to reduce friction and improve their performance. To lubricate them, you will need a high-quality lubricant designed for mechanical switches and a small applicator brush.
- Begin by unplugging the device and removing any keycaps or covers that cover the switches.
- Apply a small amount of lubricant to the applicator brush.
- Apply the lubricant to the moving parts of the switch, such as the stem and spring.
- Be careful not to apply too much lubricant, as this can cause the switch to become sticky.
- Reassemble the device and test the switches to ensure that they are working correctly.
Switch replacement:
If a fast switch is not working correctly, it may need to be replaced. To replace a switch, you will need a replacement switch, a soldering iron, and solder.
- Begin by unplugging the device and removing any keycaps or covers that cover the switches.
- Use the soldering iron to remove the solder from the switch’s contacts.
- Carefully remove the old switch from the device.
- Insert the new switch into the device, making sure that it is securely in place.
- Use the soldering iron to solder the new switch’s contacts to the device.
- Reassemble the device and test the new switch to ensure that it is working correctly.
In summary, fast switches are an essential component of many electronic devices, and it’s important to maintain and care for them properly to ensure their longevity and performance. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and replacement when necessary can help to keep fast switches working effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tactile and linear switch?
Tactile switches have a bump or tactile feedback when you press the key, indicating that the switch has actuated. Linear switches, on the other hand, have a smooth and consistent feel all the way down.
Are fast switches louder than other switches?
It depends on the specific switch. Generally, switches with shorter actuation distances tend to be louder because they require less force to press down, which can result in bottoming out the key with more force and producing more noise.
Can I use fast switches for both typing and gaming?
Yes, fast switches can be used for both typing and gaming. However, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing or gaming style.
Are fast switches more expensive than other switches?
Fast switches can be more expensive than other switches, but it depends on the brand and specific switch model. Some popular brands such as Cherry and Gateron offer fast switches at different price points.
Can I install fast switches on any mechanical keyboard?
It depends on the mechanical keyboard and the type of switches it supports. Some keyboards have hot-swappable switches, which means that you can easily swap out the switches for any compatible switch type, including fast switches. However, some keyboards require soldering to replace the switches, which can be more challenging.
What are mechanical keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards are a type of keyboard that use individual mechanical switches under each keycap. These switches offer a tactile and auditory feedback when typing, resulting in a more satisfying and accurate typing experience compared to membrane keyboards.
What are the fastest switches for mechanical keyboards?
The fastest switches for mechanical keyboards are generally considered to be linear switches, such as Cherry MX Speed or Kailh Speed switches. These switches have a short actuation distance and require less force to actuate, resulting in faster response times.
What is actuation distance?
Actuation distance is the distance a key must be pressed down in order for the switch to register a keystroke. For example, a switch with an actuation distance of 1.5mm will register a keystroke once the key is pressed down 1.5mm.
What is actuation force?
Actuation force is the amount of force required to register a keystroke on a mechanical keyboard. This is usually measured in grams of force (g). The actuation force can impact the overall typing experience, with heavier switches requiring more force to type on but also providing more tactile feedback.
Are there any downsides to using linear switches?
One potential downside of linear switches is that they lack the tactile feedback provided by other switch types, such as tactile or clicky switches. Some users may also find that linear switches feel too light or lacking in feedback, leading to errors in typing. Ultimately, the choice of switch type is a matter of personal preference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mechanical keyboard market has a variety of switches to offer, each with its unique set of characteristics. However, if you’re looking for the fastest switches, there are a few standouts.
The OmniPoint Adjustable Switch is undoubtedly the fastest option, allowing for customizable actuation points to suit your typing style. The Razer Red Optical Switch is another excellent choice, providing lightning-fast actuation speeds and a satisfying click.
The Corsair OPX RGB Optical Switch is another top contender, offering a tactile feel and an incredibly short actuation distance. The LK Optical Clicky Switch also provides a satisfying click and quick actuation, making it a popular choice among gamers.
The Gateron Optical Yellow, Cherry MX Speed Silver, Kailh Speed Silver, Gateron Silver Pro Switch, Kailh Speed Copper, Razer™ Yellow Mechanical Switch, and Akko CS Silver Switch all offer fast actuation speeds, making them suitable for competitive gaming and typing.
Ultimately, the best switch for you depends on your personal preferences and typing style. So, it’s essential to try out different switches before deciding on one. Nonetheless, the switches mentioned in this article are an excellent starting point for those looking for the fastest switches for their mechanical keyboards.
