Best Keyboard Switches

The 7 Best Mechanical Keyboard Switches for Gaming

Keyboard switches are like relay runners. Only, instead of relaying batons, they register your keystrokes and race that information off to your computer. The best keyboard switches also affect the feel of your keypress, making the difference between a sluggish response and smooth, decisive input that outperforms the competition.

Through years of researching, reviewing, and tinkering with gaming keyboards, I’ve learned the hard way which key switches provide the best experience. Skip the painful tutorial and head straight to the big leagues with this guide to the top options.

Keyboard Switch Basics

Before we check out the best key switches for gaming, let’s go over the basics (don’t worry — I’ll be quick).

Keyboard switches are the mechanisms that actuate your keystrokes and send that data to your computer. They come in two primary formats: mechanical and membrane.

Mechanical switches are physical mechanisms underneath each keycap. These mechanisms feature a spring, a stem, and a contact. When you press down on a key, the switch’s spring compresses, pushing the stem and contact together. From here, the contact sends a signal to your PCB, activating your keypress.

Membrane switches are circuits lining the bottom of your keyboard. Atop these circuits lies a single rubber sheet with compressible domes corresponding to the location of each circuit and keycap. When you press down on a key, the rubber dome compresses and signals the corresponding switch.

In general, mechanical switches are better for gaming and typing. They respond quicker in all your favorite games, and they more reliably actuate each and every keystroke. However, not all mechanical switches are the same.

Types of Mechanical Switches

There are three primary types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky.

  • Linear. These switches press down smoothly, offering minimal tactility or audible noise. They require mild operating force and actuate at a low-to-mid travel distance, making them fast and easy to press.
  • Tactile. Tactile switches are the middle-ground option, requiring moderate force to push and providing a (relatively muted) bump upon actuation.
  • Clicky. These switches invoke a classic typewriter feel. They’re remarkably tactile, and there’s a pronounced bump when pressed. There’s also a loud, audible click upon actuation.

Choosing a Mechanical Switch

The first step to choosing a switch is deciding between linear, tactile, and clicky. Most gamers prefer linear variants for their smooth, speedy, and quiet operation. Meanwhile, tactile switches are a great multipurpose option, while clicky switches are best for typists.

Unless you’re a tech enthusiast, you’ll probably want to buy a keyboard with your desired switches already built-in. That way, you don’t have to worry about disassembling your existing keyboard or playing with a soldering iron. For those who want something ready to go out of the box, simply reference the following guide when searching for a new keyboard.

If you’re a DIYer who’s ready to get their hands dirty, I’ve included links to where you can purchase each switch and start tinkering with your keyboard. Just make sure the different keyboard switch types fit with your existing model (check mounting requirements and LED compatibility).

Our 7 Best Keyboard Switches of 2022

Best Keyboard Switches Overall: Cherry MX Red Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: $1.5/each
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 2.0mm
  • Total Travel: 4.0mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 100 million clicks
  • Best for: Most gamers, various genres
Highlights
  • Linear design offers swift and fluid operation
  • Gold crosspoint registers your keystroke near-instantaneously
  • Features Cherry’s traditional switch design, with a time- and battle-tested mechanism that’s been around for nearly 40 years

Learn more about Cherry MX Red Switches from these online retailers.

Cherry’s Red MX switches are the go-to choice for most gamers. Although some keyboard enthusiasts prefer other Cherry switch styles, the classic Reds have never done me wrong in a Valorant firefight or Minecraft expedition. They’re fast, reliable, and feel oh so good underneath your fingertips. 

Since they’re linear, Cherry MX Reds press down like butter, but without the mushy feeling you’ll encounter with cheaper clones. Instead, they feel silky smooth yet precise, with a 2.0mm actuation point and quiet operation that your Discord teammates and IRL housemates will appreciate.

You can find MX Reds in many of today’s best gaming keyboards or swap them into any MX switch socket for an instant upgrade.

Pros

  • Easy to find; used in many of today’s best mechanical gaming keyboards
  • Incredibly quiet, with a dampened sound profile that doesn’t disturb teammates or housemates
  • Boasts excellent quality control, with precision-machined parts

Cons

  • Not quite as fast as dedicated MX speed switches
  • Tried-and-true, but lacking the modern tech advancements found in optical and magnetic switches

Best MX Speed Switches for Gaming: Kailh Speed Silver Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: $0.43/each
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 1.1mm
  • Total Travel: 3.5mm
  • Operating Force: 40gf
  • Lifespan: 70 million clicks
  • Best for: Speed, FPS titles
Highlights
  • The 1.1mm actuation distance activates with a quick caress
  • Sensitive 40gf operating force requires minimal effort to press
  • Speedy response time signals your computer in mere milliseconds

Learn more about Kailh Speed Silver Switches from these online retailers.

When milliseconds matter most, Kailh Speed Silver Switches are the only option. 

Since Kailh Speed Silvers actuate at just 1.1mm, they’re (almost) twice as fast as Cherry MX reds. Of course, this unbelievable speed comes at a cost. Namely, it’s easy to press the wrong key on accident, which can trip you up during frenzied competitions. There’s also a multi-day learning period as you get used to the new pressure requirement and start adjusting your typing posture.

But I think they’re worth taking the time to learn. Kailh Speed Silvers are a massive boon in FPS games, when trigger-hair fire is the most crucial element (alongside aim, of course). Kailh switches also share a similar build quality to Cherry’s switches, meaning they’re ultra-reliable, even paired with NKRO. 

Pros

  • Affordable alternative to Cherry MX switches
  • Reliable operation actuates as expected and works well with NKRO
  • Durable construction lasts 70 million clicks and feels sturdy underneath your fingertips

Cons

  • Requires a multi-day learning curve and break-in period
  • Low actuation point and operating force make it easy to press the wrong key accidentally

Best Multipurpose Keyboard Switches: Gateron Brown Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: $0.46/each
  • Type: Tactile
  • Actuation Distance: 2mm
  • Total Travel: 4mm
  • Operating Force: 55gf
  • Lifespan: 50 million clicks
  • Best for: Gaming, typing, everyday computing
Highlights
  • Multipurpose tactile design works well for various activities
  • MX design syncs with most modern work and gaming keyboards
  • Provides a sensory experience, with a mild tactile bump and audible click upon every keystroke

Learn more about Gateron Brown Switches from these online retailers.

I adore Gateron Brown Switches. So much so that I used them for an entire year at one point. They were the ideal option for my work setup, as I could write during the day and play my favorite games at night. 

Gateron Browns make such an ideal multipurpose option because they’re a form of tactile switch. In other words, there’s a sensory bump when you hit the actuation point 2mm down. This bump provides sensory feedback that many typists appreciate, but it’s milder than you’d find in a clicky switch. Still, I wouldn’t recommend Gateron Browns to competitive players. They require a relatively high 55 grams of force to press, making them better-suited for casual players who like to unwind with a relaxing round of Fortnite or RuneScape after work.

Gateron Browns are similar to Cherry MX Browns, only they’re manufactured in China. Although this translates to less durability (50 million strokes compared to 100 million), they should still last you the better part of a decade. Plus, it’s a worthy trade-off when considering how affordable Gaterons are on the aftermarket.

Pros

  • An affordable alternative to Cherry
  • Sensory feedback is ideal for general typing tasks
  • Tactile bump and 55gf make these difficult to press accidentally

Cons

  • Half as durable as Cherry MX switches
  • Tend to bottom out (go all the way down) once you pass the actuation point, which some users dislike

Best Optical Switches for Gaming: Razer Linear Optical Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: Varies
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 1.2mm
  • Total Travel: 3.5mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 100 million clicks
  • Best for: Smooth, zippy keystrokes
Highlights
  • Light beam signals your computer in 0.2ms
  • Stabilizing bar ensures zero wobble, even when typing quickly
  • Linear design features a 1.2mm actuation and 45gf keypress for easy actuation

Learn more about Razer Linear Optical Switches from these online retailers.

The Razer Linear Optical Switches operate at the speed of light. No joke — these switches use a beam of light instead of traditional contact points to register keystrokes with your computer. Unfortunately, the technology is relatively new and not so mainstream as conventional mechanical switches. As such, you’ll only find these switches in select Razer keyboards. However, it may be worth the hassle for those who want to take advantage of their lightning-fast responsiveness right away.

The Razer Linears actuate at 1.2mm down, meaning pre-travel distance is ever so slightly more than the Kailh Speed Silvers. However, the light beam registers in a fraction of the time, making them just a little bit more responsive. I’ve found that the Razer Linears feel delightful, with a familiar yet novel keypress that’s near-silent and perfectly smooth. Since the bottoming out process doesn’t require physical contact, there’s also an ease to your keypress that you have to experience to believe.

Pros

  • Innovative design puts you at the forefront of gaming technology
  • Lack of a traditional contact makes the linear design feel even smoother
  • Keystrokes incur minimal wear and tear, leading to a 100 million click lifespan

Cons

  • Exclusively compatible with select Razer keyboards
  • Only available when buying a Razer keyboard (or from secondhand sites)

Best Adjustable Switches for Gaming: OmniPoint Adjustable Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: Varies
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 0.4mm to 3.6mm
  • Total Travel: 3.6mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 100 million clicks
  • Best for: Adjusting the actuation point
Highlights
  • Features an adjustable actuation point from 0.4mm to 3.6mm
  • Uses magnetic fields to track distances and ensure precision keystrokes
  • Offers a 0.7ms response time suitable for all types of competitive gaming

Learn more about OmniPoint Adjustable Switches from these online retailers.

Most mechanical switches come with predetermined specifications, including a fixed, unchanging actuation point. But as their name implies, the OmniPoint Adjustable Switches are different. Instead of traditional stem and contact, these switches use magnetic fields to register the difference between your key and the PCB below. Then, you can use your SteelSeries keyboard’s software to adjust the actuation point anywhere from 0.4mm to 3.6mm!

The possibilities are truly limitless — so long as you’re using the right SteelSeries keyboard. You see, you can only use these switches with varying versions of the company’s Apex Pro. But I have high hopes that SteelSeries will roll the technology out to more keyboards or even develop a universal adjustable switch that you can slot into your existing keyboard. We’ll just have to wait and see what the future holds.

Pros

  • Easy to adjust using SteelSeries’ integrated keyboard technology
  • Linear design provides a smooth and reliable stroke ideal for high-stakes gameplay
  • Feels quite stable; SteelSeries claims their switches last anywhere from 100 to 200 million keystrokes

Cons

  • Only available on specific SteelSeries keyboards
  • Does not offer adjustable tactility (yet)

Best Budget Switches for Gaming: Outemu Red Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: $0.41/each
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 2mm
  • Total Travel: 4mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 50 million clicks
  • Best for: Gamers on a budget
Highlights
  • Affordable and easily accessible
  • Linear design registers at 2mm without any tactile bump
  • Boasts extremely quiet actuation with minimal aural feedback

Learn more about Outemu Red Switches from these online retailers.

Outemu was the first mechanical switch brand I ever tried, and it’s wholly responsible for converting me into a mechanical keyboard fanboy. If you’re on a tight budget like I was, Outemu is the ideal starting point for your new keyboarding adventures. 

Despite their prevalence on lower-end keyboards, Outemu Reds are genuine linear switches that come close to matching the quality of Cherry, Kailh, and Gateron. While a small minority of users complain about scratchiness from Outemu variants (AKA, undesired friction), I’ve never encountered this as an issue. On the contrary, I’ve found that the switches always actuate exceptionally smoothly, with a satisfying 45gf keypress that registers at a standard 2mm distance.

Outemu switches are everywhere in the sub-$75 keyboard range, making them easily accessible. They’re also an ideal option for beginners looking to start modding, as you don’t need to shell out much money for a complete set — the perfect beginner switch.

Pros

  • Supports agile keystrokes for casual and competitive gaming
  • Low cost and reasonable performance make them perfect for beginners
  • Quiet operation is ideal for home or the office

Cons

  • Some users complain about scratchiness
  • Known as the budget option; may receive stigma from the keyboard community

Best Clicky Switches for Gaming: Romer-G GX Blue Switches

At A Glance
  • Price: Varies
  • Type: Clicky
  • Actuation Distance: 1.9mm
  • Total Travel: 4mm
  • Operating Force: 50gf
  • Lifespan: 70 million clicks
  • Best for: Gaming and typing
Highlights
  • Requires a light press optimized for gaming environments
  • Tactile bump and audible click provide excellent sensory feedback
  • Rated for 70 million clicks, rivaling comparable mechanical variants

Learn more about Romer-G GX Blue Switches from these online retailers.

Although most gamers prefer to play with Linear or Tactile switches, there are a handful of folks out there who enjoy some proverbial spring in their step. Enter the Romer-G GX Blue Switches.

While I dislike most Romer-G switches due to their uniquely mushy key feel, the GX Blues are different. These feature a classic Cherry-inspired design that feels much more on par with what I’d expect from a company like Logitech. 

They require 50gf to operate and press down at 1.9mm, which is reasonably light for a clicky switch. This lower force and actuation point makes them better-suited for gaming than a traditional option from Cherry or Gateron. What’s more, their tactility is immensely satisfying, providing some pleasant push-back with every stroke. Each keypress also emanates a click-clack that reverberates around your gaming room like you’d expect from a classic typewriter. Although sure to annoy your teammates, they add ambiance to your gaming experience.

Pros

  • Acoustic feedback has a lovely ring to it
  • Quick responsivity for moderately competitive gameplay
  • Find these integrated into many of Logitech’s best gaming keyboards

Cons

  • There is some minor key wobble
  • Many users dislike clicky switches for gaming
 
Office Chair
Best For
Price Range
Where To Buy
Best Keyboard Switches Overall
$1.5/each
View More Details
Highlights
  • Linear design offers swift and fluid operation
  • Gold crosspoint registers your keystroke near-instantaneously
  • Features Cherry’s traditional switch design, with a time- and battle-tested mechanism that’s been around for nearly 40 years
At A Glance
  • Price: $1.5/each
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 2.0mm
  • Total Travel: 4.0mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 100 million clicks
  • Best for: Most gamers, various genres
Best MX Speed Switches for Gaming
$0.43/each
View More Details
Highlights
  • The 1.1mm actuation distance activates with a quick caress
  • Sensitive 40gf operating force requires minimal effort to press
  • Speedy response time signals your computer in mere milliseconds
At A Glance
  • Price: $0.43/each
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 1.1mm
  • Total Travel: 3.5mm
  • Operating Force: 40gf
  • Lifespan: 70 million clicks
  • Best for: Speed, FPS titles
Best Multipurpose Keyboard Switches
$0.46/each
View More Details
Highlights
  • Multipurpose tactile design works well for various activities
  • MX design syncs with most modern work and gaming keyboards
  • Provides a sensory experience, with a mild tactile bump and audible click upon every keystroke
At A Glance
  • Price: $0.46/each
  • Type: Tactile
  • Actuation Distance: 2mm
  • Total Travel: 4mm
  • Operating Force: 55gf
  • Lifespan: 50 million clicks
  • Best for: Gaming, typing, everyday computing
Best Optical Switches for Gaming
Varies
View More Details
Highlights
  • Light beam signals your computer in 0.2ms
  • Stabilizing bar ensures zero wobble, even when typing quickly
  • Linear design features a 1.2mm actuation and 45gf keypress for easy actuation
At A Glance
  • Price: Varies
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 1.2mm
  • Total Travel: 3.5mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 100 million clicks
  • Best for: Smooth, zippy keystrokes
Best Adjustable Switches for Gaming
Varies
View More Details
Highlights
  • Features an adjustable actuation point from 0.4mm to 3.6mm
  • Uses magnetic fields to track distances and ensure precision keystrokes
  • Offers a 0.7ms response time suitable for all types of competitive gaming
At A Glance
  • Price: Varies
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 0.4mm to 3.6mm
  • Total Travel: 3.6mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 100 million clicks
  • Best for: Adjusting the actuation point
Best Budget Switches for Gaming
$0.41/each
View More Details
Highlights
  • Affordable and easily accessible
  • Linear design registers at 2mm without any tactile bump
  • Boasts extremely quiet actuation with minimal aural feedback
At A Glance
  • Price: $0.41/each
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Distance: 2mm
  • Total Travel: 4mm
  • Operating Force: 45gf
  • Lifespan: 50 million clicks
  • Best for: Gamers on a budget
Best Clicky Switches for Gaming
Varies
View More Details
Highlights
  • Requires a light press optimized for gaming environments
  • Tactile bump and audible click provide excellent sensory feedback
  • Rated for 70 million clicks, rivaling comparable mechanical variants
At A Glance
  • Price: Varies
  • Type: Clicky
  • Actuation Distance: 1.9mm
  • Total Travel: 4mm
  • Operating Force: 50gf
  • Lifespan: 70 million clicks
  • Best for: Gaming and typing

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