Keyboard switches are components that are built into keyboards and appear underneath the keycaps. When you press the keys, a change in the feel, sound, and response time is felt. Switches are great for a large number of functions. This includes typing of documents and software development. 2. Which switch is perfect for what I do? Before applying lube and switch film to the batch of Inks, the switches felt a bit scratchy and I was a little disappointed by how much they seemed to wobble. All of the switches in this classification are considered “clones” since they mirror the design of the Cherry MX switch and use the same descriptive names where the colors represent the actuation type and spring force. They both have some level of speed and key actuation. However, Gateron trumps it for us, especially when there’s a clear sound to indicate when a keystroke is generated. Kailh comes close with a good key travel distance, too. With most Gaterons, bottoming out won’t be an issue while using your keyboard. Factors to Consider When Buying a Switch A heavy switch reduces the chance of input errors, whereas a light switch is easier to touch to type with, which leaves the choice down to personal preference.

There is an endless amount of ways to utilize Gateron switches of any color because Gateron switches are designed to meet a plethora of needs. The main lineup is based on the Cherry MX switches, while the rest are more adventurous and interesting. Gateron has designed several additional switches such as their own silent switches, milk switches, ink switches, and low-profile switches. We’ll explain the differences below. The Main Line-Up COLORThe Gateron Blue switch gives a tactile sensation and sound, with a noticeable bump with each press to ensure every keystroke is on point. Gateron switches are popular around the world for their durability and distinct tactile and sonic characteristics. We offer the Gateron Optical switches, which have a much smoother press than traditional Gateron switches and have a longer lifespan of 100 million keystrokes. The sound levels with a silent switch are significantly lower, in a test we found that silent switches are 16% more quiet than a normal switch. Out of the box, the switches felt a bit scratchy, so we decided to lube them to improve the feel and acoustics even more.

While Gateron hasn’t had a reputation for being a premium switch, they offer the most budget-friendly options and are pound-for-pound one of the best switch options out there. Operating Force – this refers to the force required to make the key press down and register the keystroke to the computer. I.e.: how hard you must press the key. This measurement of (cN) refers to centinewtons. While the difference in sound isn’t too apparent unless you pay attention to it, those who use their keyboard in a loudness-sensitive environment will certainly benefit from using Gateron Yellows. However, they offer a lot of value with some variants of the Gateron switches having more quality than some Cherry MX. If you want a switch with the right value and quality, Gateron is the brand. Spending a good sum of money on a keyboard switch takes some doing. While there are key keyboard switches differences, you’d want one that lasts for the long term. As such, it’s one big factor to consider, especially if your keyboard will be used for the tougher stuff.

The actuation force varies widely. In the case of both switches, the Kailh linear Speed Silver has the lowest actuation force at 27g. For Gateron, this rate is 35g for one of its linear switches. We’ve tested out hundreds of switches, so we’ll also give you our thoughts on each style of Gateron switch to help you give an idea of how they feel and sound (along with our opinions). Gateron Switches: A Deeper Look Kailhs are one of the best clone switches available on the market. This brand features a unique style of switches well-adapted from the Cherry series. A great line of switches here includes the Box and Speed switches.

The normal switch housing directs RGB lighting directly into your eyes, while the milk switches give it a less intense feel. The overall sound and feel of Milk switches are the same except the color of the housing is different. Gateron Ink Switches COLOR The Gateron Yellow switch. Similar to the Red linear Gateron switch, the Yellow requires slightly lighter pressure at 5g more actuation force of 50g. Also a fast response and quiet switch without a tactile bump suitable for gaming. Their tactile switches aren’t as good, though, and aren’t as close to Cherry switches in terms of quality. Further, Gaterons have a good spring force and travel distance, which is pegged at 4mm. Depending on the Gateron switch you opt for, the actuation force will vary. 2. Kailh Switches Pros If you are unsure, you can always test for the wobble. To do so, remove one of the keycaps and try to move the stem of the switch around. If the stem feels loose and moves freely, it can most likely benefit from a switch film. Supposedly, they have the same exact build and sound, but the switch is a bit lighter so it will accommodate a lighter keystroke better.THE GOOD POINTS: If you find other linear switches to be too light to actuate and/or you make typos with those, then this may be for you. I haven’t personally tested them myself yet, so I can’t quite give them a glowing recommendation, but they could be an excellent substitute.

With many switches having a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes, they’ll last a long time. This is one of the advantages of Gateron. In comparison to Kailhs, they are built to take a lot of hits, whether you’re typing or gaming. – Key Activation Force As a rule of thumb, the only time you actually need to film a switch is when you experience wobble. Gateron low profile switches have a completely different design than a normal switch. Gateron low-profile switches have a different shaped stem and a much short actuation and travel distance.If you’re looking at Gateron switches though it’s hard to pass up on the linear switches, due to the smoothness. Whether you’re a gamer, programmer, typist, or anything else under the sun, you can find a switch that will work for you. There are a few different factors to consider before deciding on a switch. Environmental Considerations