If you are in search of the best switch for a gaming keyboard, the answer is not one single option. What switch is best for you depends on a range of factors, including gaming style and budget. From tactile switches that provide an audible and tangible response to linear switches with a smoother travel, the variety of switches on offer can make it difficult to understand the differences and determine which one is best for you and your gaming style.
Tactile switches, like the Cherry MX Brown, are incredibly popular for gaming keyboards. They have a good activation point, meaning that the key only needs to be pressed down halfway for a reliable and accurate keystroke, making them great for FPS games and fast-paced genres. The tactile feedback with each keystroke provides an audible click, making them a popular choice for typists who are searching for a quiet but satisfying experience.
Linear switches, such as the Cherry MX Red, offer a very smooth travel with no tactile feedback. This makes them ideal for gamers that don’t need the audible feedback when keystrokes are released but still demand a reliable and accurate keystroke. When it comes to action-packed genres or games that involve rapid input, linear switches are a great choice.
If you want a balance between the two, you should consider the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch. It has a low activation point and a short travel, meaning that keystrokes are quicker and easier to perform. This makes them a great choice for gaming, especially for those seeking a reliable switch for gaming that’s still light and fast.
One of the most important considerations when selecting a switch for gaming is the budget. If your budget doesn’t stretch far enough for the more expensive switches, you should look at more affordable alternatives such as the Outemu Blues. They are a great budget-friendly option with a tactile feel, good travel and audible clicks, making them comparable to the popular Cherry MX Blue switches.
Quiet Switches
For those looking for a quieter experience, there are a range of silent switches to choose from. One of the most popular is the Cherry MX Silent Red, which features a linear-style input but with very little noise. They’re great for gamers who need lightning-fast inputs without the loud noise.
If you want something even quieter, Kailh’s Silent Box switches are a great option. These switches have a dampened spring and come in both tactile and clicky styles. The dampened springs help to minimise the noise output, meaning that these switches offer a very quiet typing experience.
While some switches are specifically designed to be silent, other switches can be used to control the noise. O-rings are made of rubber or silicone and can be placed around a switch to reduce the impact of each keystroke. This decreases the noise output and can also help to extend the life of your switch.
Ergonomic Switches
Ergonomic switches are designed to provide a more comfortable typing experience by reducing fatigue and helping to prevent injuries. They are usually low profile and curved, meaning that your hands will have a more natural and comfortable position on the keyboard. Ergonomic switches are also usually more responsive than other switches with a shorter travel time and a much quicker input.
One of the most popular ergonomic switches is the Kailh Choc White. This switch is low-profile and has a travel time of just 0.8mm, meaning that it responds faster than other switches and allows for faster keystrokes. It also has an audible click and a tactile bump, which provides both tangible and audible feedback.
If you’re looking for a quieter option, the Kailh Choc Brown is the same switch but with a quieter audible click. This makes it a great option for gamers who prefer a quieter experience and still want a tactile switch with a short travel time.
Another popular ergonomic switch is the Topre switch. This switch is made from a spring-mounted rubber dome and provides a unique hybrid feel, combining the tactile feedback of a mechanical switch with the responsive feel of a membrane switch. This switch is perfect for gamers who want a comfortable and responsive switch with tactile feedback.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best switch for gaming keyboards, the choice can be overwhelming. But once you understand the difference between tactile, linear and ergonomic switches, you will be able to determine which switch is most suitable for your gaming needs. Whether you are looking for a tactile response, a linear switch, a quiet switch or an ergonomic switch, you can find one that will suit your gaming style and budget.
