The Best Keyboard Switches
![](https://expertevaluation.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Black-Green-Winner-Sticker-3-2-150x150.png)
![](https://expertevaluation.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Black-Green-Winner-Sticker-150x150.png)
How We Found the Best Keyboard Switches?
Experts Review
Pedals Tested
User Feedback
In a world that increasingly revolves around technology, keyboards have become essential tools for work, gaming, and everyday communication. The feel and performance of a keyboard can significantly impact your overall typing experience. A key element influencing this experience is the keyboard switch, the mechanism beneath each keycap that registers your keystrokes. In this exploration, we delve into the fascinating journey of how we found the best keyboard switches.
The Keyboard Switch Landscape
Before diving into the process of finding the best keyboard switches, it’s crucial to understand the diverse landscape of keyboard switches available in the market. Keyboard switches come in various types, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and use cases.
Mechanical Switches: These are the most popular type of keyboard switches and are known for their tactile feedback and audible click. Mechanical switches offer a satisfying typing experience and are often favored by typists, programmers, and gamers.
Membrane Switches: Membrane switches are typically found in more budget-friendly keyboards. They consist of a rubber dome beneath the keycap that makes contact with a circuit board. While less tactile and responsive than mechanical switches, membrane switches can be quieter and have a softer feel.
Scissor Switches: Commonly found in laptop keyboards, scissor switches are known for their low profile and stable keypresses. They offer a balance between the tactile feedback of mechanical switches and the slim design of membrane switches.
Topre Switches: Topre switches are a unique hybrid, combining elements of mechanical and rubber dome switches. They provide a tactile bump, quiet keystrokes, and are appreciated by those seeking a premium typing experience.
Optical Switches: Optical switches use light beams to register keypresses. They are known for their speed and durability, making them popular among gamers and typists looking for a responsive and reliable switch.
Understanding the Quest for the Best Keyboard Switch
The journey to find the best keyboard switch is a multidimensional one that takes into account user preferences, typing style, and intended use. While there is no universally “best” keyboard switch, there are switches that excel in specific aspects, making them more suitable for certain applications.
To embark on this quest, several key factors come into play
1. Typing Experience: The typing experience is at the heart of the search for the best keyboard switch. Factors such as tactile feedback, actuation force, keypress distance, and noise level all contribute to how enjoyable and comfortable typing feels.
2. Gaming Performance: Gamers often prioritize different attributes in keyboard switches, such as speed, actuation point, and anti-ghosting capabilities. Finding the best gaming switch requires assessing these factors and how they impact gameplay.
3. Durability: The longevity of a keyboard switch is essential for prolonged use. Mechanical switches are often favored for their robustness and longevity, with some switches rated for tens of millions of keystrokes.
4. Noise Level: Noise can be a significant consideration, especially in shared or quiet workspaces. Mechanical switches, such as Cherry MX Blue, are known for their audible click, while Cherry MX Red switches provide a quieter experience.
5. Ergonomics: Keyboards with customizable switches or ergonomic designs cater to users with specific comfort and accessibility needs. Finding switches that align with these requirements is crucial for an optimal typing experience.
Research and Development
Manufacturers invest significant resources into research and development to design and refine keyboard switches. They consider factors like materials, switch design, and actuation mechanisms to enhance the user experience.
One noteworthy example is the Cherry Corporation, a renowned switch manufacturer. Their Cherry MX switches, introduced in the 1980s, have become industry standards for mechanical keyboard switches. Cherry continuously refines its switches, introducing variations like Cherry MX Red, Brown, and Blue to cater to a wide range of user preferences.
Other manufacturers, such as Razer, Logitech, and Corsair, have also made significant advancements in switch technology. Razer’s proprietary switches, for instance, are engineered for gaming performance and have found favor among esports enthusiasts.
User Feedback and Customization
User feedback plays a pivotal role in the evolution of keyboard switches. Manufacturers often seek input from users, gather data on user preferences, and conduct surveys to refine their switches. This feedback loop helps them tailor switches to better meet the needs of their target audience.
Additionally, customization has become a significant trend in the keyboard industry. Mechanical keyboards, in particular, allow users to swap out keycaps and switches to create a personalized typing experience. Enthusiasts can choose switches based on their typing preferences, fine-tuning everything from the feel of keypresses to the audible sound produced.
Evaluating Key Switch Brands
Several key switch brands have made a name for themselves in the keyboard switch market. Here are a few notable ones:
Cherry: As mentioned earlier, Cherry MX switches are widely respected and used by keyboard enthusiasts and manufacturers worldwide. They offer a variety of switch options to cater to different preferences.
Razer: Razer has gained recognition for its Razer switches, designed with gaming performance in mind. These switches often feature shorter actuation points for quicker keypresses.
Logitech: Logitech has developed its Romer-G switches, known for their durability and quiet keystrokes. They are frequently used in Logitech’s gaming and productivity keyboards.
SteelSeries: SteelSeries offers a range of switches designed for gaming keyboards, including their proprietary QX2 and OmniPoint switches. These switches are built for performance and customization.
- Mechanical Keyboard Blue Switches 61 Keys, E-YOOSO Z-11 60% Small Compact Keyboard – Highly Recommended Product
- MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard MK-Armor LED Rainbow Backlit and Wired USB 104 Keys Keyboard – Popular Reviewers Product
- Corsair K60 RGB Pro Cherry USB Mechanical Key Switches – Easy to Use
Mechanical Keyboard Blue Switches 61 Keys, E-YOOSO Z-11 60% Small Compact Keyboard
The world of mechanical keyboards is a realm of diverse switches, layouts, and designs, catering to enthusiasts and users who seek a superior typing experience. Among these, the E-YOOSO Z-11 60% Small Compact Keyboard with Blue switches stands out as a compact yet feature-rich option. In this review, we’ll delve into the details of this keyboard to explore its design, functionality, and the overall typing experience it offers.
Compact Yet Functional Design
The E-YOOSO Z-11 is a 60% mechanical keyboard, which means it eschews the traditional function row, number pad, and navigation keys found on larger keyboards, opting for a compact and minimalist design. With a 61-key layout, this keyboard emphasizes portability and space efficiency without compromising on functionality.
Its compact design makes it ideal for users who value desk space or need a highly portable keyboard for on-the-go use. The Z-11’s small footprint allows it to fit comfortably in tight spaces, making it an excellent choice for gamers, programmers, and those who value a clutter-free workspace.
Blue Mechanical Switches: A Tactile and Audible Delight
One of the standout features of the E-YOOSO Z-11 is its use of Blue mechanical switches. Blue switches are known for their tactile feedback and audible click, providing a satisfying typing experience. These switches require a noticeable actuation force and produce an audible click sound when a key is pressed.
Typists who appreciate the tactile response and audible confirmation of keypresses often gravitate toward Blue switches. They provide a distinct sensation with each keystroke, making them popular among writers, programmers, and anyone who values a tactile typing experience.
However, it’s important to note that the audible click can be quite loud, which may not be suitable for shared workspaces or environments where noise is a concern. Users in such situations may prefer quieter switch options like Browns or Reds.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality of the E-YOOSO Z-11 is impressive, given its price point. It features a solid plastic construction with a matte finish that feels pleasant to the touch. The keyboard has a sturdy feel without any noticeable flex, ensuring it can withstand daily use.
Durability is further enhanced by the use of mechanical switches. Blue mechanical switches, in particular, are known for their longevity, with many rated for tens of millions of keystrokes. This means the Z-11 should provide a reliable typing experience for years to come, making it a cost-effective choice.
RGB Backlighting: Aesthetic and Functional
The E-YOOSO Z-11 comes equipped with customizable RGB backlighting, allowing users to choose from a range of colors and lighting effects to match their preferences or set a unique ambiance. RGB lighting adds a touch of aesthetics to the keyboard and can be particularly appealing to gamers and those who enjoy customizing their workspace.
Beyond aesthetics, RGB backlighting can also serve a functional purpose. It can help users differentiate between keys, especially in dimly lit environments, making it easier to locate specific keys during gaming or typing sessions.
Key Features and Functionality
Despite its compact size, the E-YOOSO Z-11 packs in a range of essential features:
Programmability: The keyboard supports key reprogramming, allowing users to assign custom functions or macros to specific keys. This feature enhances productivity and gaming performance, as users can create shortcuts for frequently used commands.
N-Key Rollover: With full N-key rollover support, the Z-11 ensures that every keypress is registered, even during rapid and complex typing or gaming sequences. This eliminates the issue of key ghosting or missed inputs.
Detachable USB-C Cable: The keyboard comes with a detachable USB-C cable, making it convenient for users who want to transport or store the keyboard without the cable attached. The USB-C connection ensures a reliable and fast connection to the computer.
Compact and Portable: The compact layout, combined with the detachable cable, enhances the portability of the Z-11. It can easily slip into a backpack or laptop bag, making it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable keyboard while traveling.
The E-YOOSO Z-11 60% Small Compact Keyboard with Blue switches delivers an enjoyable and tactile typing experience in a compact form factor. The use of Blue switches provides the audible click and tactile feedback that many users crave, and the build quality ensures durability and longevity.
While the compact layout may take some time to adjust to for those accustomed to larger keyboards, it offers a clutter-free and space-efficient solution for both work and gaming. The inclusion of customizable RGB backlighting and programmability adds to its appeal, making it suitable for a variety of users.
In conclusion, the E-YOOSO Z-11 is an excellent choice for those in search of a compact mechanical keyboard that doesn’t compromise on features or typing experience. Whether you’re a writer, programmer, or gamer, this keyboard’s combination of tactile Blue switches, build quality, and portability make it a compelling option in the competitive world of mechanical keyboards.
MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard MK-Armor LED Rainbow Backlit and Wired USB 104 Keys Keyboard
In the ever-evolving world of gaming peripherals, a keyboard is a critical tool for gamers seeking precision, speed, and reliability. The MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard MK-Armor is one such keyboard that has garnered attention for its features and design. In this review, we’ll delve into the details of the MK-Armor, exploring its LED Rainbow Backlit design, wired USB connection, and the functionality of its 104 keys.
An Illuminated Gaming Experience: LED Rainbow Backlit Design
One of the standout features of the MageGee MK-Armor is its vibrant LED Rainbow Backlit design. For gamers, aesthetics and atmosphere are often crucial elements of the gaming experience, and the MK-Armor doesn’t disappoint in this regard.
The Rainbow Backlit design allows for an array of colors to cascade across the keys, creating a visually stunning effect. This not only adds a layer of excitement to your gaming setup but also serves a practical purpose. Gaming sessions often extend into late hours, and the LED backlighting ensures that every key is visible even in low-light conditions. This feature is especially valuable for gamers who prefer to play in dimly lit rooms or during nighttime hours.
Customization is another advantage of the LED Rainbow Backlit design. Users can often choose from a variety of lighting modes, adjust brightness levels, and even customize individual key colors through the keyboard’s software. This level of personalization allows gamers to match the keyboard’s lighting to their gaming setup or personal style.
Wired USB Connectivity: A Gamer’s Best Friend
The MageGee MK-Armor employs a wired USB connection, which is a common preference among gamers for several reasons.
Reduced Latency: Wired connections typically offer lower latency compared to wireless alternatives. In gaming, where split-second reactions can make all the difference, this reduced delay can be a game-changer.
Consistent Power: Wired keyboards do not rely on batteries, ensuring consistent power delivery during gaming sessions. You won’t have to worry about the keyboard running out of battery at a critical moment.
Reliable Connection: Wireless keyboards can occasionally suffer from interference or signal drops. With a wired connection, you can enjoy uninterrupted gameplay without the risk of disconnection.
Ease of Setup: Wired keyboards are often plug-and-play, requiring no additional setup or pairing processes. Simply connect the USB cable, and you’re ready to go.
104 Keys for Ultimate Versatility
The MageGee MK-Armor features a standard 104-key layout, making it versatile for both gaming and everyday use. These keys include the full range of alphanumeric keys, function keys, navigation keys, and a number pad. This completeness is appreciated by users who need their keyboard to handle a wide range of tasks beyond gaming, such as word processing, data entry, or web browsing.
The inclusion of a number pad, in particular, is a significant advantage for users who work with numbers or perform data calculations regularly. It enhances productivity by eliminating the need for a separate external numeric keypad.
Mechanical keys are another highlight of the MK-Armor. Mechanical keyboards are preferred by many gamers for their tactile feedback, quick responsiveness, and durability. Each key on the MK-Armor features an individual mechanical switch, ensuring a consistent and reliable typing experience. Mechanical switches are known for their distinct keypress feel, which varies depending on the specific switch type.
Typically, mechanical keyboards offer a variety of switch options, each with its own actuation force and keypress feel. Gamers often have preferences for switches that cater to their gaming style, whether they prioritize speed, precision, or a balance of both. For example, Cherry MX Red switches are known for their smooth keystrokes and are favored by gamers who need rapid response times, while Cherry MX Blue switches offer tactile and audible feedback, making them ideal for typists and those who enjoy the tactile sensation of each keypress.
A Gaming Keyboard with Style and Substance
The MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard MK-Armor, with its LED Rainbow Backlit design, wired USB connection, and 104 keys, offers a compelling package for both casual and avid gamers. Its stunning lighting effects not only add flair to your gaming setup but also enhance visibility during late-night gaming sessions.
Corsair K60 RGB Pro Cherry USB Mechanical Key Switches
In the world of gaming peripherals, Corsair stands out as a brand synonymous with innovation and quality. The Corsair K60 RGB Pro with Cherry MX mechanical key switches is no exception, offering gamers a remarkable keyboard experience that combines precision, speed, and style. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the key features and advantages of the Corsair K60 RGB Pro, with a particular focus on its Cherry MX mechanical key switches.
The Corsair K60 RGB Pro: A First Look
At first glance, the Corsair K60 RGB Pro is a sleek and visually striking gaming keyboard. Its design is a testament to Corsair’s commitment to aesthetics and functionality. The keyboard boasts an anodized brushed aluminum frame that not only provides durability but also adds a premium touch to your gaming setup.
The K60 RGB Pro features a full-size layout with 104 keys, including a dedicated number pad. This layout is appreciated by gamers and professionals alike, as it provides ample space for gaming controls and productivity tasks. The keys are framed by a black, low-profile chassis, with each keycap designed for maximum visibility, thanks to a bold and vivid RGB backlighting system.
Cherry MX Mechanical Key Switches: Precision and Reliability
At the heart of the Corsair K60 RGB Pro are the Cherry MX mechanical key switches, which are celebrated for their precision, durability, and exceptional tactile feedback. Cherry MX switches are often regarded as the gold standard among mechanical switches and are the preferred choice for gamers and typists seeking a responsive and satisfying typing experience.
The K60 RGB Pro offers users a choice between two types of Cherry MX switches
Cherry MX Red: These switches are known for their linear actuation and low actuation force, making them ideal for gamers who require rapid and effortless keypresses. The absence of a tactile bump allows for smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, making Cherry MX Red switches popular among competitive gamers.
Cherry MX Silent: As the name suggests, Cherry MX Silent switches are designed to reduce noise while maintaining the tactile feedback of traditional mechanical switches. These switches incorporate dampeners to minimize keypress noise, making them a considerate choice for users who share their gaming or workspaces with others.
The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. Gamers who prioritize quick reaction times may prefer Cherry MX Red switches, while those seeking a quieter typing experience may opt for Cherry MX Silent switches.
Dynamic RGB Backlighting: A Visual Spectacle
The Corsair K60 RGB Pro elevates the gaming experience with its dynamic RGB backlighting system. Each keycap is individually lit, allowing for a virtually endless array of color and lighting effects. Whether you prefer a subtle, monochromatic look or a dazzling light show, the K60 RGB Pro’s RGB backlighting can be customized to match your preferences.
Corsair’s iCUE software provides a user-friendly interface for customizing the RGB lighting. Users can choose from various pre-set lighting profiles, synchronize lighting effects with other Corsair devices, and even create their own unique lighting patterns. The K60 RGB Pro’s vivid lighting is not just for aesthetics; it also enhances functionality by providing better visibility during low-light gaming sessions.
Dedicated Media Controls and Additional Features
The Corsair K60 RGB Pro doesn’t stop at delivering an exceptional typing experience. It also includes dedicated media controls that provide quick and convenient access to volume adjustment, playback, and other multimedia functions. These controls are conveniently located on the top-right corner of the keyboard, allowing you to adjust audio settings without leaving your game or application.
The keyboard also features 100% anti-ghosting and full-key rollover, ensuring that every keypress is registered accurately, even during complex gaming sequences. This feature is critical for gamers who demand precision and reliability in their equipment.
Durability and Build Quality
Corsair is renowned for its commitment to durability, and the K60 RGB Pro is no exception. The anodized brushed aluminum frame not only adds a premium aesthetic but also provides robust structural integrity. The keyboard’s construction is built to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions and extended typing tasks.
The keycaps themselves are made from double-shot PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), a high-quality material known for its resistance to wear and fading. Double-shot keycaps have legends that are molded into the keycap, ensuring that they remain legible over time, even with extensive use.
In the Corsair K60 RGB Pro with Cherry MX mechanical key switches, gamers and typists alike will find a mechanical masterpiece that combines precision, durability, and style. The choice between Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Silent switches allows users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences, whether they prioritize speed or quiet operation.
The dynamic RGB backlighting system not only adds a visually stunning element to your gaming setup but also enhances functionality by providing excellent visibility in low-light environments. Dedicated media controls, anti-ghosting, and full-key rollover further enhance the keyboard’s usability.
Durability is a hallmark of Corsair products, and the K60 RGB Pro is built to withstand the test of time, ensuring that it remains a reliable and enjoyable gaming companion for years to come. Whether you’re a competitive gamer, a content creator, or simply someone who appreciates a high-quality mechanical keyboard, the Corsair K60 RGB Pro is a compelling choice that offers an exceptional typing and gaming experience.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the best type of switch keyboard?
When picking out the best switch for typing, typically a tactile switch is preferred because the tactile bump can help reduce error and make typing more enjoyable. The best mechanical switches for typing are Cherry MX Browns, ZealPC Zilents, and Topre switches.
What color switches are best?
If you like the classic, clicky sound and feel, you’ll love blue mechanical switches. If speed is a consideration, stick to linear (red) switches, and for a mix of both, go with brown. You can also join the official SteelSeries Discord to find other mechanical keyboard fans to chat with!
Which Cherry switch is best for FPS?
Those features make this switch an excellent choice for rapid firing in First Person Shooter (FPS) games. It’s a linear switch, which means it offers a smooth, quiet (but not silent), no-click experience that’s rated for 100 million actuations.
What is the smoothest keyboard switch?
Red keys are linear keys that provide smooth presses with no clicks. That doesn’t mean they’re silent, but they’re usually among the quietest of all of the key colors. Yellow and Black switches also share these characteristics, though Black switches are often “heavier” in feel and offer more resistance to your finger.
What is the fastest keyboard?
New SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL HyperMagnetic Gaming Keyboard – World’s Fastest Keyboard – Adjustable Actuation – Esports Tenkeyless – OLED Screen – RGB – PBT Keycaps – USB-C – 2023 Edition. Amazon’s Choice highlights highly rated, well-priced products available to ship immediately.
What keyboard switches are best for gaming?
Gaming preferences vary, but many gamers prefer mechanical switches for their tactile feedback and quick response times. Cherry MX Red switches, for example, are favored by gamers who want a linear and fast keystroke without tactile feedback.
How do I choose the right keyboard switch for me?
Choosing the right keyboard switch involves considering factors like typing or gaming preferences, tactile feedback, actuation force, and noise level. It’s advisable to try different switches if possible to find the one that suits you best.
Are there customizable keyboards that allow me to switch between different switches?
Yes, some customizable mechanical keyboards allow you to swap out individual switches, allowing you to experiment and find the switch that suits you best without purchasing an entirely new keyboard.
What are optical switches, and how do they compare to traditional mechanical switches?
Optical switches use light-based actuation, which can lead to faster response times and greater durability compared to traditional mechanical switches. They are becoming increasingly popular among gamers for their speed and precision.