Linear Switches: Essential Tips to Know and Suggestions from My Experience
When it comes to customizing your keyboard, picking the right switches is a big deal. If you’re like me and love the feel of a smooth and satisfying keystroke, you’re probably on the hunt for the best switches. Trust me; I’ve been there—swimming through a sea of options, trying to figure out which ones are the real deal. So, let’s dive right into the world of switches and figure out how to find the best ones for your keyboard!
What Are Linear Switches?
Before we jump into finding these switches for your keyboard, let’s get one thing straight—what are linear switches? These are a type of mechanical keyboard switches known for their smooth and consistent keystrokes. Unlike tactile or clicky switches, linear switches don’t have that bump or audible click when you press a key. It’s like pressing down on a soft marshmallow—smooth all the way down.
Linear switches are adored by gamers and typists alike for their speed and quiet operation. If you’re someone who enjoys gliding through keys without any interruption or a noticeable bump, these are probably right up your alley. So, let’s get into how to find the best linear switches for your keyboard.
How to Find the Best Linear Switches for Your Keyboard?
Finding the best switches for your keyboard is like finding the perfect pair of shoes—it’s all about what feels right for you. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own journey:
- Feel Matters Most: First and foremost, it’s about the feel. I’ve tested dozens of switches, and the best ones are those that give me that buttery-smooth keystroke with just the right amount of resistance. The smoother the switch, the better the typing experience.
- Consider Actuation Force: These switches come with varying actuation forces—the amount of pressure needed to register a keypress. Some people love light switches like Cherry MX Red or Gateron Milky Yellow that need a soft tap, while others, like me, prefer something with a bit more resistance, like the Cherry MX Black. It’s like finding that sweet spot between too soft and too hard.
- Noise Level: Although linear switches are quieter than their clicky counterparts, some can still be a tad noisy. If you’re sharing a space, think about how much sound you’re willing to tolerate. Some switches have dampening built-in, like the Silent Cherry MX Red, while others might need mods to reduce noise.
- Durability and Build Quality: The best switches for your keyboard will last a long time without wearing out. Look for switches with a high lifespan, like 50 million keystrokes or more, such as Cherry MX Red Switches. You don’t want to be replacing them every few months. Trust me, I learned this the hard way!
- Customization Options: If you’re a tinkerer like me, you’ll want switches that are easy to modify. Some switches, like the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro or Durock POM, are easier to lube or film, which can dramatically improve their feel and sound. Being able to customize them means you can get that perfect typing experience tailored just for you.
- Budget Considerations: Ah, the budget! You’ll find these switches ranging from super cheap to quite premium. Sometimes, spending a little extra is worth it, but there are also budget options like KTT Kang White that perform exceptionally well.
Types of Popular Linear Switches
Now that you know what to look for, let’s talk about some of the popular types of switches on the market. Trust me; I’ve tried a bunch, so here’s the rundown:
- Cherry MX Red and Black
Cherry MX switches are the granddaddies of the keyboard world. The Cherry MX Red switches are known for their light actuation force (45g), making them perfect for quick typing and gaming. If you like a bit more heft, the Cherry MX Black switches require more force (60g). They’ve been around forever, and while some might say they’re a bit “basic,” there’s a reason they’re still popular.
My Experience: The first mechanical keyboard I ever got had Cherry MX Reds. I still remember the feeling of gliding my fingers across those keys, effortlessly typing away. But, after a while, I realized I wanted something smoother and with less wobble. - Gateron Red, Yellow, and Black
Gateron switches are often praised for being smoother than Cherry MX switches, and I’d have to agree. Gateron Reds are pretty similar to Cherry Reds but slightly smoother, and the Gateron Yellow switches are a fan favorite for a good reason—they offer a balanced typing experience with a 50g actuation force. Gateron Black switches, on the other hand, have a heavier actuation force (60g), similar to Cherry MX Blacks.
My Experience: When I first tried Gateron Reds, I was blown away by how much smoother they felt compared to the Cherry MX Reds. It was like upgrading from a nice sedan to a luxury car—both get the job done, but one just feels better. - Kailh Red and Black Box Switches
Kailh has made a name for itself by offering high-quality, budget-friendly switches. The Kailh Box Reds and Blacks are known for their stability and reduced wobble, thanks to the “Box” design. Plus, they’re pretty darn durable! With an actuation force similar to Cherry MX Reds and Blacks, these switches provide a great alternative for those looking for something sturdy and reliable.
My Experience: I didn’t expect much when I first tried Kailh Box Reds, but I was pleasantly surprised. The reduced wobble and stability made my typing feel more precise. It’s like the keys were saying, “Stay on track, buddy!” - NovelKeys Cream Switches
Now, here’s a switch that truly surprised me—NovelKeys Creams. They’re known for their smooth and “creamy” feel (no pun intended), especially after they break in. The housing is all POM (a type of plastic), and they have a medium actuation force that makes them feel sturdy yet smooth.
My Experience: These switches were like a revelation. When I first tried them, they felt a bit scratchy, but after a few days of typing, they broke in beautifully. They became my daily driver for a while, and I loved how they felt under my fingers. - Tangerine Switches by The Key Company (TKC)
Oh, the Tangerines! These bad boys are a bit on the pricier side, but boy, are they worth it. With two different weights (62g and 67g), these switches offer a unique, ultra-smooth typing experience that feels like typing on a cloud.
My Experience: I was skeptical at first due to the price, but after a friend insisted, I gave them a shot. The moment I tried them, I understood the hype. It’s like they melt under your fingers—a true joy to type on. - Durock Switches (L-Series and POMs)
Durock switches have been gaining popularity in the keyboard community, and for good reason. Their L-Series linear switches are exceptionally smooth, with minimal wobble, and offer a consistent typing experience. Durock POM switches, made entirely of POM plastic, also stand out for their satisfying, deep sound and smooth feel.
My Experience: These switches quickly became a favorite of mine. The L-Series, in particular, had a certain “bounce” to them that made typing both fun and comfortable. - Tealios V2 by ZealPC
Tealios are often considered the gold standard of smoothness. These premium switches come at a premium price, but their smoothness is unparalleled. With a 67g actuation force, they provide just enough resistance without feeling too heavy.
My Experience: When I first tried Tealios, it was like a new chapter opened in my keyboard journey. They’re the kind of switch that makes you feel like you’re floating while typing. - Alpaca Switches
Alpaca switches are another favorite in the community. They come with a 62g actuation force and are known for their ultra-smooth typing experience. Many compare them to Tealios but at a slightly lower price point.
My Experience: Alpacas felt like a great middle ground between some of the pricier options and the more budget-friendly ones. They’re smooth, consistent, and look pretty stylish too!
How Do I Choose the Best Switches for My Keyboard?
It really boils down to personal preference. But here’s my method: I made a list of what I wanted in a switch—smoothness, durability, and modifiability. Then, I tested a bunch! Yes, it can get expensive, but many companies offer switch testers that let you try a few before committing. This saved me from buying switches that sounded great on paper but didn’t quite feel right.
How to Find the Best Switches for Your Keyboard?
Finding the best switches for your keyboard is like finding the perfect pair of shoes—it’s all about what feels right for you. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own journey:
Feel Matters Most: First and foremost, it’s about the feel. I’ve tested dozens of switches, and the best ones are those that give me that buttery-smooth keystroke with just the right amount of resistance. The smoother the switch, the better the typing experience.
Consider Actuation Force: Switches come with varying actuation forces—the amount of pressure needed to register a keypress. Some people love light switches that need a soft tap, while others, like me, prefer something with a bit more resistance. It’s like finding that sweet spot between too soft and too hard.
Noise Level: Although Switches are quieter than their clicky counterparts, some can still be a tad noisy. If you’re sharing a space, think about how much sound you’re willing to tolerate. Some switches have damping built-in, while others might need mods to reduce noise.
Durability and Build Quality: The best switches for your keyboard will last a long time without wearing out. Look for switches with a high lifespan, like 50 million keystrokes or more. You don’t want to be replacing them every few months. Trust me, I learned this the hard way!
Customization Options: If you’re a tinkerer like me, you’ll want switches that are easy to modify. Some switches are easier to lube or film, which can dramatically improve their feel and sound. Being able to customize them means you can get that perfect typing experience tailored just for you.
Budget Considerations: Ah, the budget! You’ll find linear switches ranging from super cheap to quite premium. Sometimes, spending a little extra is worth it, but there are also budget options that perform exceptionally well.
Types of Popular Linear Switches
Now that you know what to look for, let’s talk about some of the popular types of these switches on the market. Trust me; I’ve tried a bunch, so here’s the rundown:
- Cherry MX Red and Black Cherry MX switches are the granddaddies of the keyboard world. The Cherry MX Red switches are known for their light actuation force (45g), making them perfect for quick typing and gaming. If you like a bit more heft, the Cherry MX Black switches require more force (60g). They’ve been around forever, and while some might say they’re a bit “basic,” there’s a reason they’re still popular.
My Experience: The first mechanical keyboard I ever got had Cherry MX Reds. I still remember the feeling of gliding my fingers across those keys, effortlessly typing away. But, after a while, I realized I wanted something smoother and with less wobble.
- Gateron Red, Yellow, and Black Gateron switches are often praised for being smoother than Cherry MX switches, and I’d have to agree. Gateron Reds are pretty similar to Cherry Reds but slightly smoother, and the Gateron Yellow switches are a fan favorite for a good reason—they offer a balanced typing experience with a 50g actuation force. Gateron Black switches, on the other hand, have a heavier actuation force (60g), similar to Cherry MX Blacks.
My Experience: When I first tried Gateron Reds, I was blown away by how much smoother they felt compared to the Cherry MX Reds. It was like upgrading from a nice sedan to a luxury car—both get the job done, but one just feels better.
- Kailh Red and Black Box Switches Kailh has made a name for itself by offering high-quality, budget-friendly switches. The Kailh Box Reds and Blacks are known for their stability and reduced wobble, thanks to the “Box” design. Plus, they’re pretty darn durable! With an actuation force similar to Cherry MX Reds and Blacks, these switches provide a great alternative for those looking for something sturdy and reliable.
My Experience: I didn’t expect much when I first tried Kailh Box Reds, but I was pleasantly surprised. The reduced wobble and stability made my typing feel more precise. It’s like the keys were saying, “Stay on track, buddy!”
- NovelKeys Cream Switches Now, here’s a switch that truly surprised me—NovelKeys Creams. They’re known for their smooth and “creamy” feel (no pun intended), especially after they break in. The housing is all POM (a type of plastic), and they have a medium actuation force that makes them feel sturdy yet smooth.
My Experience: These switches were like a revelation. When I first tried them, they felt a bit scratchy, but after a few days of typing, they broke in beautifully. They became my daily driver for a while, and I loved how they felt under my fingers.
- Tangerine Switches by The Key Company (TKC) Oh, the Tangerines! These bad boys are a bit on the pricier side, but boy, are they worth it. With two different weights (62g and 67g), these switches offer a unique, ultra-smooth typing experience that feels like typing on a cloud.
My Experience: I was skeptical at first due to the price, but after a friend insisted, I gave them a shot. The moment I tried them, I understood the hype. It’s like they melt under your fingers—a true joy to type on.
- Durock Linear Switches (L-Series and POMs) Durock switches have been gaining popularity in the keyboard community, and for good reason. Their L-Series linear switches are exceptionally smooth, with minimal wobble, and offer a consistent typing experience. Durock POM switches, made entirely of POM plastic, also stand out for their satisfying, deep sound and smooth feel.
My Experience: These switches quickly became a favorite of mine. The L-Series, in particular, had a certain “bounce” to them that made typing both fun and comfortable.
- Tealios V2 by ZealPC Tealios are often considered the gold standard of smoothness. These premium switches come at a premium price, but their smoothness is unparalleled. With a 67g actuation force, they provide just enough resistance without feeling too heavy.
My Experience: When I first tried Tealios, it was like a new chapter opened in my keyboard journey. They’re the kind of switch that makes you feel like you’re floating while typing.
- Alpaca Linear Switches Alpaca switches are another favorite in the community. They come with a 62 g actuation force and are known for their ultra-smooth typing experience. Many compare them to Tealios but at a slightly lower price point.
My Experience: Alpacas felt like a great middle ground between some of the pricier options and the more budget-friendly ones. They’re smooth, consistent, and look pretty stylish too!
How Do I Choose the Best Linear Switches for My Keyboard?
It really boils down to personal preference. But here’s my method: I made a list of what I wanted in a switch—smoothness, durability, and modifiability. Then, I tested a bunch! Yes, it can get expensive, but many companies offer switch testers that let you try a few before committing. This saved me from buying switches that sounded great on paper but didn’t quite feel right.
Consider Your Typing Style
Are you a heavy typist who bottoms out every keystroke, or do you prefer a lighter touch? If you tend to type with more force, a heavier switch like Cherry MX Black or Durock POM might be better. For lighter typists or gamers who need fast actuation, switches like Gateron Reds or Tealios can be ideal.
Factor in Your Daily Use
Do you mainly type documents, emails, or blog posts? Or are you a hardcore gamer? Different switches can cater to different needs. For example, Gateron Yellows and Tealios V2 are excellent for gaming due to their quick actuation and smooth feel. For typing-focused tasks, you might prefer switches with a bit more weight, like Cherry MX Black or NovelKeys Creams.
My Top Picks for the Best Linear Switches for Your Keyboard
So, after my fair share of trial and error, here are my top picks for the best linear switches for your keyboard:
- For Smoothness: NovelKeys Creams, Tealios V2, and Tangerines.
- For Budget: Gateron Reds, Yellows, or Kailh Box Reds.
- For Stability: Kailh Box Red and Black.
- For Durability: Cherry MX Black and Durock POM.
- For Gaming: Gateron Yellows, Tealios V2, and Alpacas.
Are Linear Switches Good for Gaming?
Absolutely! switches are a top choice for gamers because they offer a quick, uninterrupted keystroke. No bump or click to slow you down. Plus, they’re usually quieter, which can be a big plus in a shared space or if you’re streaming. I’ve found that switches like Gateron Yellows and Tealios V2 give me the speed and responsiveness I need for those intense gaming sessions.
Conclusion
Finding the best switches for your keyboard is a personal journey. What feels right for me might not be the best choice for you. But by considering factors like smoothness, actuation force, and noise level, you can find the perfect switch to suit your typing or gaming needs.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. My advice? Test a few switches, see what feels right under your fingers, and go with what makes you happy. After all, the best switch is the one that makes your typing or gaming experience enjoyable.
FAQs
What are linear switches?
These are a type of mechanical keyboard switch that provide a smooth, consistent keypress without any tactile bump or audible click.
What happens if you switch line and load on a GFCI?
If you switch the line and load wires on a GFCI outlet, it won’t provide protection to the downstream outlets, and the GFCI itself might not work properly, posing a safety risk.
What happens if you switch line and load wires?
Switching the line (incoming power) and load (outgoing power) wires on any electrical device or outlet can cause it to malfunction or become a safety hazard.
Are linear switches good for gaming?
Yes, these are great for gaming because they provide fast, smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump, allowing for quick, uninterrupted keypresses.
Do switch controllers need line of sight?
Most switch controllers, like wireless ones using Bluetooth, don’t need a direct line of sight, but infrared (IR) controllers do need a clear path to work properly.
What is load and line on a switch?
“Line” refers to the incoming power supply to a switch, while “load” refers to the outgoing connection that the switch controls, like a light or outlet.
