We’ve reached the most critical and exciting part of choosing a keyboard: the switches. If you’ve decided to go for a keyboard that supports hotswap functionality, you have a huge variety of switch options to choose from. Your choice won’t just determine the typing feel and comfort but will also shape the sound of your keyboard.
What Are Switches And How Are They Built?
Switches are small, independent units located beneath each key on a keyboard. They are responsible for closing the electrical circuit on the printed circuit board (PCB) when you press a key, translating the action into the desired command on your computer. Unlike traditional keyboards, where the circuit is closed using a membrane, mechanical switches have a real spring inside. This mechanism provides highly satisfying tactile feedback and the distinct, addictive click sound that many enthusiasts love.
Each switch is made up of four primary components: the bottom housing, which holds the mechanism and includes the metal leaf responsible for closing the circuit; the top housing, which encloses the switch; the spring, which determines how much force is required to press the switch and how quickly it returns to its original position; and the stem, a small piece sitting above the spring that moves downward during a keypress and connects to the keycap above it.
The quality, feel, and character of a switch are determined by several factors, with the most important being the materials it’s made of (nylon, POM, or various plastic compounds), the design and length of the spring, the presence or absence of lubrication (lube) in the internal mechanism, and how stable the stem is without wobbling. All these aspects together define the overall typing experience.
Another, less common type is the optical switch. While their structure is similar to that of a standard mechanical switch, the metal “leaf” mechanism inside is replaced by a light sensor. Instead of closing the circuit through metal contact, the circuit is completed when light is blocked. Optical switches are the fastest type available, making them particularly suited for gaming. However, they are often considered less enjoyable for everyday typing and come in a very limited variety on the market.
Finally, there are switches designed for HE (Hall Effect) keyboards. In these switches, the circuit is not closed by physical contact but by the proximity of a small magnet on the stem to the PCB. The level of proximity affects the electrical current, allowing precise control over the exact point at which a press is registered. For gamers, HE keyboards offer exceptional response times, but this comes at the expense of tactile feel and sound. If ultra-fast response times aren’t a priority for you, an HE keyboard is likely unnecessary.
Linear Or Tactile?
There are three main types of switches: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches, as their name suggests, provide a smooth, consistent motion from the moment you press down to bottoming out. In contrast, tactile switches feature a slight bump partway through the press — a very satisfying feedback for those who enjoy it. Clicky switches, which also have a tactile bump, are much louder, producing a distinct high-pitched click sound upon actuation. Both linear and tactile switches come in silent versions, designed for quieter operation, making them ideal for shared workspaces or home offices where noise might disturb others.
Beyond the mechanism type, each switch is defined by the actuation force (the pressure required to register a keypress, measured in grams) and the travel distance (the distance from the start of the press to the actuation point, typically around 3-4 mm, or 1.2 mm for particularly fast switches, as well as the total distance to the bottom).
Light and fast switches typically require an actuation force of around 35 grams and are best suited for gaming. Standard switches for general typing and everyday use fall within the 45-68 gram range, while heavier switches requiring 80 grams or more are designed for those who prefer stronger resistance during keypresses.
Types, Brands and Connections
There are two main physical standards for switches: MX and Kailh. Both are compatible with most keyboards, but their opening mechanisms differ slightly. Leading switch brands include Gateron, Kailh, Durock, JWK, KTT, Tecsee, HMX, BSUN, and others. Switches are often marketed by their colors or color-themed names, such as Tangerines for orange and green switches or North Pole for clear, ice-like switches. Classic colors include red (linear), brown (tactile), and blue (clicky), but beyond these, the possibilities are endless.
Switches connect to the PCB (printed circuit board) using two small metal pins at their base, along with additional plastic pins for stability. Some switches have a total of 3 or 5 pins, so it’s crucial to ensure the switches you choose are compatible with your keyboard’s PCB.
At the top, most switches feature an MX-style stem, which resembles a small cross and connects to the keycap above it. Some switches use a Box-style stem, which includes a square frame around the stem to protect it from dust and moisture. Don’t worry — your keycaps will fit both styles without issue.
If RGB lighting is important to you, look for switches that are clear or white, as the switch color can affect the light passing through it. Additionally, some switches, like the popular WS Morandi, include a diffuser to enhance light distribution, providing a more vibrant and even illumination.
So Which Switches Are Right For Me?
For most keyboard enthusiasts, the ultimate goal is finding switches that offer the smoothest motion, minimal scratchiness in both feel and sound, and the desired sound profile — whether that’s deep, high-pitched, or quiet. Which switches will suit you best? It’s hard to say, but it’s highly recommended to try out at least the two most popular types: tactile and linear. You might even consider purchasing a switch tester kit to experiment with different options. Additionally, check out the playlist section where I update YouTube videos featuring sound tests of new keyboards and switches to help you find a sound profile that speaks to you.
Before moving on to stabilizers, a quick word about lubing (we’ll cover this in detail later). To make switches feel and sound smooth — without unpleasant scratchiness or annoying noise — it’s important that their internal mechanism is properly lubed with a dedicated grease. If you’re not up for lubing the switches yourself, look for pre-lubed options straight from the factory. While pre-lubed switches used to be rare and expensive, many brands now offer affordable switches with excellent factory lubing. Brands like BSUN and HMX are particularly known for their outstanding lubing quality.
