When entering the world of mechanical keyboards, there’s a universe of customization options available. One of these choices involves the selection of appropriate switches. Switches are arguably the most critical components because they are responsible for the touch, feel, sound, and overall responsive nature of the keyboard. There are many types of mechanical keyboard switches, each with their unique characteristics. In this article, we will undertake a thorough sound test of various switch types.
Cherry MX Switches
Cherry MX switches are some of the most popular choices among mechanical keyboard users. They’re readily available, consistent in quality, and offer a wide range of switch types to cater to different preferences.
Cherry MX Blue
Cherry MX Blue switches are well-known for their distinct “clicky” sound. The biting, crisp sound of the MX Blue is pleasing to typists who appreciate the auditory feedback that accompanies each keystroke. However, the distinct and loud click can potentially irritate those in close proximity, making this switch less ideal for quiet working environments.
Cherry MX Red
The Cherry MX Red switches are linear in nature. They don’t have a tactile bump or an audible click. Hence, they are the quietest among all Cherry MX switches. Their sound is minimal, making them ideal for shared spaces or high-speed typing where noise might be disruptive.
Cherry MX Brown
Cherry MX Browns rest between the loud ‘clicky’ MX Blues and the silent MX Reds. They have a tactile bump and a relatively muted sound, making them a popular choice for those looking for a middle-ground experience.
Gateron Switches
As a competitor to Cherry switches, Gateron is known for offering a smoother keystroke, which is sometimes preferred over the more ‘scratchy’ feeling of Cherry switches.
Gateron Blue
Gateron Blue switches are precise replicas of Cherry MX Blues, offering the same tactile and clicky experience, though they are perceived to be slightly louder than their Cherry counterparts.
Gateron Red
Gateron Red switches are similar in feel to the Cherry MX Reds. They are quiet, smooth, and ideal for fast typists. However, they sound a bit louder compared to Cherry MX Reds because of their higher pitched bottom-out noise.
Gateron Brown
Gateron Brown switches are often compared favorably to Cherry Browns because they offer a slightly more pronounced tactile bump. They have a mid-range sound profile, slightly louder than the Cherry MX Browns.
Kailh Switches
Kailh is another reputable manufacturer in the mechanical keyboard space, with a touch of innovation that offers more variety for discerning consumers.
Kailh Blue
Kailh Blue switches are modeled after Cherry MX Blue and offer a similar clicky nature. However, the sound produced by Kailh Blue is sharper in comparison, providing a different kind of auditory feedback.
Kailh Red
Kailh Red switches are a comparable linear switch option akin to Cherry MX Reds and Gateron Reds. They have a slightly more significant sound than their counterparts due to a more pronounced bottom-out sound.
Kailh Brown
The Kailh Brown switches provide a middle-ground experience between tactile and clicky switches, similar to the Cherry and Gateron Browns but with a slightly louder audible feedback.
Topre Switches
Topre switches are generally considered premium options because they are electro-capacitive switches, providing a unique combination of tactile and smooth keystrokes.
Topre 45g
45g Topre switches are slightly quieter than most other mechanical switches. They have a distinctive “thock” sound, which has been described as a satisfying “raindrop” or “duck quack” auditory feedback.
Topre 55g
55g Topre switches are louder than 45g Topre switches due to their increased actuation force. They offer a more profound “thock” sound, which adds a satisfying element to each keystroke.
Understanding the sound produced by different switch types is incredibly essential in the journey of selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard. With the wide variety available, personal preference plays a crucial role in pinpointing your ideal typing sound. From the sharp click of a Cherry MX Blue to the subtle “thock” of a Topre switch, there is something for everyone in the versatile world of mechanical keyboard switches.
