16 Best Switches for Office Use - 2024 Expert Guide

  • Keycaps 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Sep 7, 2023

Choosing the best switches for office use can make a big difference in your comfort, productivity, and enjoyment. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be hard to decide which ones are best for you. That's why we have compiled this list of the 16 best switches for office use, based on their features, performance, and user reviews. 

1. Best Switches for Office Use - Detailed Reviews

Let's have reviews on some of the best switches for office use, based on their features, performance, noise level, and durability. We will also give you some tips on how to find the right switch for your typing style and preference. 

1.1. Gazzew Boba U4s

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Silent tactile
  • Actuation force: 62g or 68g
  • Bottom out force: 67g or 73g
  • Actuation distance: 2mm
  • Travel distance: 4mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

    Gazzew boba u4s - one of the best switches for office use
    Gazzew boba u4s - one of the best switches for office use

The Gazzew Boba U4s are one of the best switches for office use. These switches are silent tactile switches by Gazzew that come in two variants: 62g and 68g. They have a strong D-bump that provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being too sharp or harsh, and reduces typing fatigue during extended work sessions.

What sets the Boba U4s apart is their reduced noise level, thanks to a dampened stem that ensures quiet operation, allowing you to work without disturbing colleagues or roommates. They also have an off-white opaque housing that reduces light bleed and improves sound quality.

Pros Cons
  • Very quiet and smooth
  • Strong and satisfying tactility
  • Affordable and high-quality
  • May feel too heavy for some users
  • Not compatible with some RGB keyboards
  • May need some lubrication to reduce spring ping

1.2. Cherry MX Silent Black

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Linear silent
  • Actuation force: 60 cN
  • Bottom out force: 80 cN
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 3.7 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Cherry MX Silent Black are linear switches that have a heavy actuation force of 60 cN. They are among the best keyboard switches for office designed to be very quiet.

Cherry mx silent black amongst best switches for office use
Cherry mx silent black amongst best switches for office use

The key feature of the Cherry MX Silent Black variant is its quiet operation, achieved through a dampened stem that reduces noise during key presses. This makes them an excellent choice for office environments or situations where a quieter typing experience is preferred.

Moreover, the switches offer a linear feel, with no tactile bump or audible click, making them suitable for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke. They are also available in RGB versions that have a transparent housing for better light diffusion.

Pros Cons
  • Very quiet and smooth
  • Durable and reliable
  • Compatible with RGB keyboards
  • May feel too heavy or mushy for some users
  • Not very tactile or clicky
  • More expensive than other linear switches

Are you curious to know more about these Cherry MX switches that bring a symphony of quietness to your fingertips? Then you should discover all the secrets behind Cherry MX switches to figure out.

1.3. Cherry MX Silent Red

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Linear silent
  • Actuation force: 45 cN
  • Bottom out force: 75 cN
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Cherry MX Silent Red are linear switches that have a light actuation force of 45 cN. They are similar to the Cherry MX Red, but with a patented noise reduction system that makes them very quiet and smooth

Cherry MX Silent Red switch stands out as one of the top choices for office keyboards. Its unique dampened slider and patented noise reduction technology make it exceptionally quiet, ensuring a tranquil work environment and minimal disruptions to colleagues.

Cherry mx silent red
Cherry mx silent red

Additionally, the smooth and light actuation, with a linear key feel and an actuation force of approximately 45 grams, provides a comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended work sessions. They might be a good choice if you’re looking for the best switches for office use. 

Pros Cons
  • Very quiet and smooth
  • Fast and responsive
  • Compatible with RGB keyboards
  • May feel too heavy or mushy for some users
  • Not very tactile or clicky
  • More expensive than other linear switches

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1.4. ZealPC Zilents

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Silent tactile
  • Actuation force: Varies by weight
  • Bottom out force: Varies by weight
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

As a specialized silent tactile switch, the Zilents combine the best of both worlds for users who crave the tactile feel of a switch without the loud click that often accompanies it.

Zealpc zilents for who value aesthetics, tactility, and silence
Zealpc zilents for who value aesthetics, tactility, and silence

The switches feature a dampened slider mechanism, expertly engineered to reduce noise to almost imperceptible levels. This makes the Zilents an ideal choice for shared workspaces, libraries, or any environment where a hushed ambiance is essential.

Pros Cons
  • Very tactile and quiet
  • Customizable and colorful
  • Compatible with Cherry MX keycaps and RGB lighting
  • May be too expensive for some users
  • May be too heavy or light for some users
  • May be too hard to find or order

1.5. Kailh BOX Silent Pink

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Linear silent
  • Actuation force: 35g
  • Bottom out force: 45g
  • Actuation distance: 1.8 mm
  • Travel distance: 3.6 mm
  • Lifespan: 80 million keystrokes

The Kailh BOX Silent Pink are linear silent switches that have a light actuation force of 35 g. They are similar to the classic Kailh BOX Pink, but without the clickiness.

Kailh box silent pink are an ideally best switches for office use
Kailh box silent pink are an ideally best switches for office use

Equipped with a patented design that significantly reduces typing noise, these switches create an ideal environment for productive office work or late-night gaming without disturbing others.

Moreover, they are very stable and non-wobbly, thanks to the box-shaped stem design. So, they are ideally the best switches for office use.

Pros Cons
  • Very quiet and smooth
  • Light and responsive
  • Stable and non-wobbly
  • May lack feedback or excitement for some users
  • May be too sensitive or prone to accidental presses for some users
  • May be  incompatible with some keycaps or PCBs

Kailh switches are among the most popular and versatile switches on the market. But do you know what makes them so special? Find out in Kailh switches.

1.6. Kailh Deep Sea

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Silent tactile or linear
  • Actuation force: 35g or 45g
  • Actuation distance: 1.8 mm
  • Travel distance: 3.6 mm
  • Lifespan: 80 or 100 million keystrokes

The Kailh Deep Sea are silent switches that come in two variants: Deep Sea Silent Pro and Deep Sea Silent. They have a transparent stem and a blue or purple housing, giving them a unique and attractive look. They are available in both tactile and linear versions, depending on your preference. 

Kailh deep sea
Kailh deep sea

These switches offer a tactile feel with a deeper actuation, providing typists with a sense of satisfaction with every keystroke. While not completely silent, the Kailh Deep Sea switches have a softened sound that is less disruptive in a shared workspace.

Pros Cons
  • Very quiet and smooth
  • Customizable and colorful
  • Compatible with Cherry MX keycaps and RGB lighting
  • May be too expensive or hard to find for some users
  • May be too light or heavy for some users
  • May be too short or long for some users

1.7. Topre switches

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: EC tactile
  • Actuation force: 35g, 45g, 55g or variable
  • Actuation distance: 1.5 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Topre switches are a type of electrostatic capacitive (EC) switches that use a rubber dome for feedback and a spring for actuation.

Topre switches are very smooth and satisfying
Topre switches are very smooth and satisfying

They are designed to provide a smooth and satisfying tactile feel, a quiet and crisp sound, and a non-mushy bottom-out. Renowned for their durability and consistency, Topre switches offer a pleasant typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, ideal for prolonged work sessions.

Pros Cons
  • Very smooth and satisfying
  • Very quiet and crisp
  • Compatible with Cherry MX keycaps with adapters
  • May be too expensive or rare for some users
  • May be too stiff or light for some users
  • May be too hard to mod or customize for some users

1.8. Kailh Box Muted Jade

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical clicky
  • Actuation force: 50g
  • Bottom out force: 60g
  • Actuation distance: 1.8 mm
  • Travel distance: 3.6 mm
  • Lifespan: 80 million keystrokes

The Kailh Box Muted Jade switches are a type of mechanical clicky switches that use a click bar and a silicone pad for actuation.

Kailh box muted jade provide a waterproof and dustproof performance
Kailh box muted jade provide a waterproof and dustproof performance

They are designed to provide a sharp and satisfying tactile feedback, a subtle and refined sound, and a waterproof and dustproof performance.

Additionally, they have a silicone pad that dampens the click bar and reduces the noise level. Kailh Box Muted Jade switches is a good idea for who is finding the best keyboard switches for office.

Pros Cons
  • Sharp and satisfying tactile feedback
  • Subtle and refined sound
  • Waterproof and dustproof
  • May be too loud or heavy for some users
  • May be too rare or expensive for some users
  • May be incompatible with some keycaps or LEDs

1.9. Aliaz Silent Switches

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical silent tactile
  • Actuation force: 60g to 100g
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Aliaz Silent Switches are a type of mechanical silent tactile switches that use a pink POM stem and a silicone pad for actuation. They are designed to provide a smooth, quiet, and natural feel, a moderate tactile bump, and a full Cherry MX compatibility.

Aliaz silent switches are one of the best switches for office
Aliaz silent switches are one of the best switches for office

Aliaz Silent Switches, which are made by Gateron, are one of the best switches for office use providing a hushed typing experience without compromising on tactile satisfaction. 

Besides, they have a pink POM stem that reduces friction and provides a smooth and consistent typing experience.

Pros Cons
  • Very smooth, quiet, and natural feel
  • Very moderate tactile bump
  • Very compatible with Cherry MX keycaps and keyboards
  • May be too mushy or weak for some users
  • May be too expensive or hard to find for some users
  • May be too boring or plain for some users

1.10. Kailh Pro Purple

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical tactile
  • Actuation force: 50g
  • Bottom out force: 70g
  • Actuation distance: 1.7 mm
  • Travel distance: 3.6 mm
  • Lifespan: 70 million keystrokes

The Kailh Pro Purple Switches are a type of mechanical tactile switches that use a metal leaf and a rounded stem for actuation. They are designed to provide a moderate tactile bump, a short actuation distance, and a fast typing speed.

Kailh pro purple have a short actuation distance
Kailh pro purple have a short actuation distance

The Kailh Box Royal switches are a type of tactile mechanical switches that are designed to provide a satisfying and crisp typing feel. 

These switches also have some features that enhance their smoothness and durability. They have a rounded stem that reduces friction and improves smoothness, which makes the switches glide more easily and consistently. They also have a box-shaped housing that protects the switch from dust and moisture, which extends the lifespan of the switches.

Pros Cons
  • Moderate tactile bump
  • Short actuation distance
  • Fast typing speed
  • May be too weak or inconsistent for some users
  • May be too short or prone to errors for some users
  • May be too fast or tiring for some users

1.11. Gateron Yellow

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical tactile
  • Actuation force: 50g
  • Bottom out force: 62g
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Gateron Yellow Switches are a type of mechanical linear switches that use a metal spring and a plastic stem for actuation. They are designed to provide a smooth, quiet, and fast typing experience with no tactile or clicky feedback.

Gateron yellow are designed to provide a smooth, quiet, and fast typing experience
Gateron yellow are designed to provide a smooth, quiet, and fast typing experience

The Gateron Ink Yellow switches are a type of linear mechanical switches that are designed to provide a smooth and fast typing experience. They have a plastic stem that glides smoothly on the housing and reduces friction and noise, which makes the switches quieter and more stable. 

They also have a transparent housing that allows more light to pass through, which enhances the brightness and color of the RGB backlighting.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth, quiet, and fast
  • Budget-friendly
  • Compatible with most keycaps
  • May be too light or sensitive for some users
  • May be too simple or boring for some users
  • May need lubing or modding for optimal performance

If you are considering Gateron switches and wondering if it is suitable for you, the Gateron switches will give you all the details you need.

1.12. Logitech Romer-G

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical tactile
  • Actuation force: 45g
  • Bottom out force: 60g
  • Actuation distance: 1.5 mm
  • Travel distance: 3 mm
  • Lifespan: 70 million keystrokes

The Logitech Romer-G are a type of mechanical tactile switches that use a metal leaf and a plastic stem for actuation. They are designed to provide a distinct tactile feedback, a short actuation distance, and a quiet operation.

Logitech romer-g
Logitech romer-g

These switches have a metal leaf that produces a tactile bump on the downstroke, giving you a clear indication of when the switch is activated. They also have a plastic stem that has a hollow center for LED lighting and reduces wobble and noise, ensuring a smooth and stable operation. 

Furthermore, they have a short actuation distance that is 25% faster than standard mechanical switches, allowing you to execute your commands quicker and easier. 

Pros Cons
  • Distinct tactile feedback
  • Short actuation distance
  • Quiet operation
  • May be too mushy or vague for some users
  • May be too short or prone to errors for some users
  • May be too quiet or dull for some users

1.13. Holy Panda X

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical tactile
  • Actuation force: 60g
  • Bottom out force: 67g
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Holy Panda X are a type of mechanical tactile switches that use a metal leaf and a POM stem for actuation. They are designed to provide a pronounced tactility, a smooth downstroke, and a negligible stem wobble. Holy Panda X switches are made by the Chinese manufacturer Gateron and are exclusive to Drop.

Holy panda x
Holy panda x

These tactile switches have a large bump and a loud clack sound, and are also known as best switches for office use on the best clicky switches. 

They have hand-lubricated springs as well as the rails of the housing and stem, enhancing the smoothness and consistency of each keystroke. So, they are very responsive and satisfying, but also very loud and expensive. 

Pros Cons
  • Pronounced tactility
  • Smooth downstroke
  • Negligible stem wobble
  • May be too harsh or heavy for some users
  • May be too smooth or slippery for some users
  • May be too expensive or limited for some users

1.14. Gateron Milky Yellow

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical linear
  • Actuation force: 50g
  • Bottom out force: 63g
  • Actuation distance: 2 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Gateron Milky Yellow are a type of mechanical linear switches that use a metal spring and a POM stem for actuation. They are designed to provide a smooth, responsive, and thocky feel, making them suitable for both gaming and typing.

Gateron milky yellow
Gateron milky yellow

These budget linear switches have a metal spring that provides a light and consistent resistance throughout the keystroke, providing smooth and consistent feel. 

Moreover, they have a milky housing that diffuses the LED light, creating a nice glow effect. If you’re asking for the best switches for office use which are cheap, Gateron Milky Yellow is the answer.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth and responsive
  • Thocky and deep sound
  • Affordable and available
  • May be too light or bland for some users
  • May be too loud or clacky for some users
  • May be too common or boring for some users

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1.15. Akko Silver

The Akko Silver are a type of mechanical linear switches that use a metal spring and a POM stem for actuation. They have a silver plating that enhances the conductivity and durability of the switch. 

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical linear
  • Actuation force: 45g
  • Bottom out force: 60g
  • Actuation distance: 1 mm
  • Travel distance: 4 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Akko Silver are designed to provide a fast, smooth, and quiet feel, have a high actuation point and a low actuation force. They have a dustproof stem that enhances the stability and durability of the switch

Pros Cons
  • Fast and smooth
  • Quiet and refined sound
  • Affordable and available
  • May be too light or bland for some users
  • May be too quiet or dull for some users
  • May be too common or boring for some users

1.16. Kailh NK Sherbet

Tech Specs:

  • Switch type: Mechanical clicky
  • Actuation force: 45g
  • Bottom out force: 60g
  • Actuation distance: 1.8 mm
  • Travel distance: 3.6 mm
  • Lifespan: 50 million keystrokes

The Kailh NK Sherbet are a type of mechanical clicky switches that use a click bar and a POM stem for actuation. They are designed to provide a tactile, robust, and loud feel, making them suitable for typing. They have a smooth and consistent feel, but also a bright and colorful housing that adds some flair to your keyboard.

Kailh nk sherbet
Kailh nk sherbet

These switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. They have a click bar that provides a sharp and crisp tactile feedback and sound on both downstroke and upstroke, making every keystroke feel responsive and satisfying

They also have a POM stem that slides smoothly on the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, reducing friction and noise. 

Pros Cons
  • Tactile and robust
  • Loud and crisp sound
  • Unique and colorful design
  • May be too heavy or stiff for some users
  • May be too loud or clacky for some users
  • May be too flashy or childish for some users

2. Do keyboard switches matter for office work?

The answer is yes. The right switch type can contribute to a more comfortable and productive typing experience, improved accuracy, and better durability

  • Noise levels: Mechanical switches with clicky feedback, such as blue or green switches, tend to make a loud clicking sound when you press them. On the other hand, membrane or scissor switches are usually quieter and softer, which can reduce the noise in your office environment.
  • Typing comfort: Mechanical switches with tactile feedback, such as brown or clear switches, tend to provide a satisfying bump when you press them, which can make your typing feel more responsive and enjoyable. On the other hand, membrane or scissor switches are usually smoother and lighter, which can reduce the fatigue and strain on your fingers and wrists.

    Do keyboard switches matter for office work?
    Do keyboard switches matter for office work?
  • Typing speed and accuracy: Mechanical switches with low actuation force and short travel distance, such as red or black switches, tend to register your keystrokes faster and more precisely, which can improve your typing speed and accuracy. On the other hand, membrane or scissor switches are usually slower and less accurate, which can affect your typing performance and quality.
  • Ergonomics: Mechanical switches with standard keycaps tend to have a higher profile and a larger surface area, which can provide more support and stability for your fingers. On the other hand, membrane or scissor switches with chiclet keycaps tend to have a lower profile and a smaller surface area, which can reduce the space and angle required for your fingers to reach the keys.

3. What makes the best switches for office work?

The best switches for office use are those that offer a balance between comfort, efficiency, and professionalism. Some of the elements that affect this balance are:

What makes the best switches for office work?
What makes the best switches for office work?

3.1. Actuation force

Switches with a clear actuation point and consistent keypress response enable faster and more accurate typing. This is particularly important for office tasks that involve a significant amount of typing, such as writing reports, emails, or legal documents.

3.2. Travel distance

Switches with a shorter travel distance reduce the fatigue and strain on the fingers and wrists, especially after long hours of typing. This can improve the comfort and productivity of office workers.

3.3. Tactile feedback

Switches with tactile feedback provide a satisfying and reassuring sensation that confirms the keypress. This can enhance the typing experience and reduce the errors and typos.

3.4. Noise level

Switches with a low noise level are more suitable for office environments, where loud and clacky sounds can be distracting and annoying for colleagues and clients. Switches with a silent or dampened sound are more respectful and professional.

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3.5. Typing experience

Switches with a smooth and responsive feel can improve the typing experience and make it more enjoyable and pleasant. Switches with a rough or sticky feel can make typing frustrating and unpleasant.

3.6. Durability

What makes the best switches for office work?
What makes the best switches for office work?

Switches with a high durability can last longer and perform better over time, saving the cost and hassle of replacing them frequently. Switches with a low durability can wear out quickly and malfunction easily, affecting the quality and reliability of the work.

Based on these elements, some of the best keyboard switches for office use are tactile switches, such as Cherry MX Browns, ZealPC Zilents, or Topre switches.

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These switches have a moderate actuation force, a short travel distance, tactile feedback, a low noise level, a smooth typing experience, and a high durability. They are widely compatible with most mechanical keyboards and are available in different sizes, shapes, and colors.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, choosing the best switches for office use can make a big difference in the performance, security, and efficiency of your network. We hope that this guide has helped you find the best switches for office use, or at least narrowed down your options. If you have any ideas, please comment below the article!

FAQs

1. What are the quietest switches for office?

The quietest switches for office are Cherry MX Silent Red, Aliaz Silent Switches, and ZealPC Zilents. These are the ones that have a low actuation force, a short travel distance, a dampened sound, and a smooth feel.

2. Are brown switches good for office?

Yes. Brown switches are ideal for office use if you want tactile feedback and moderate noise. They improve typing speed and accuracy while reducing finger and wrist strain. However, they're not as quiet as silent switches and may produce some clicks that can be distracting to some.

3. Can low-profile switches be a good option for office keyboards?

Low-profile switches can be a good option for office keyboards if you value efficiency and comfort. However, low-profile switches may not offer as much tactile feedback or durability as standard switches, so they may not suit everyone’s preferences or needs. 

4. What are the most durable switches for heavy office use?

The most durable switches for heavy office use are Cherry MX Black, Kailh Box. These are the ones that have a high lifespan, a high reliability, and a high resistance to wear and tear.

5. What are the best spill-resistant switches for office keyboards?

The best spill-resistant switches for office keyboards is Cherry MX SILENT RED. It has a rubber pad or a seal that helps prevent liquid spills from reaching the PCB. 

6. What are the best rubber switches for office?

The best rubber switches for office are Topre Realforce 104UB, and Logitech K120. These switches have a rubber dome or membrane that provides a soft and cushioned feel. 

7. What are the best linear switches for the office?

The best linear switches for the office are Gazzew Bobagum, Akko CS Silver, Gateron Ink Black, and Cherry MX Silent Red. They are the ones that have a smooth and consistent keystroke, a low actuation force, a short travel distance, and a low sound level. 

8. What are the best tactile switches for the office?

The best tactile switches for the office are ZealPC Zilents, Holy Panda X, Topre, Boba U4T, and Glorious Panda. These switches are suitable for office use because they offer a satisfying tactile feedback, without being too loud or harsh.

9. What are the best clicky switches for the office?

The best clicky switches for the office are Kailh NK Sherbet, Kailh Box Jade, Kailh Speed Gold, and Cherry MX Blue. These switches are suitable for office use because they offer a crisp and audible click, without being too loud or annoying.

10. What are the cheapest switches for office use?

The cheapest switches for office use are Outemu Red, Outemu Brown, Gateron Milky Yellow, and Akko Lavender Purple. These switches are suitable for office use because they offer a good typing experience, without breaking the bank.

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I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

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