15 Best Switches for Typing | Detailed Review & Buying Guide

  • Keycaps 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Mar 23, 2024

Looking for the best switches for typing? Switches allow users to input text and other commands. They are typically made of a metal spring and plastic housing. There are many types of switches to choose from, such as mechanical switches, membrane switches, and chiclet switches. 

Name Switch types Rating Price
Ajazz Clicky Blue Switch

Ajazz clicky blue switch

Clicky 4 $0.20
Gateron G Pro Yellow

Gateron g pro yellow

Linear 4 $0.25
Razer Green

Razer green

Clicky (Loud) 3 $0.30
Romer-G (Logitech)

Romer-g (logitech)

Tactile 3 $0.35
Cherry MX Brown

Cherry mx brown

Tactile 4.5 $0.40
Cherry MX Silver

Cherry mx silver

Linear  4 $0.45
Gateron Black Inks

Gateron black inks

Smooth Linear 4 $0.45
Kailh BOX Burnt Orange

Kailh box burnt orange

Clicky Tactile 4 $0.50
Glorious Panda

Glorious panda

Tactile Bump 4.75 $0.70
NovelKeys Creams

Novelkeys creams

Smooth Tactile 4.75 $0.75
Niz EC Switches

Niz ec switches

Electrostatic 4 $1.00
Holy Pandas

Holy pandas

Tactile (Modified Cherry MX Brown) 5 $1.00
ZealPC Zilent

Zealpc zilent

Tactile Silent 5 $1.20
SteelSeries Apex Pro

Steelseries apex pro

Adjustable Actuation 3.5 $1.30
Topre Switches

Topre switches

Capacitive 4.75 $1.50

Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.

1. Best Switches for Office Use - Detailed Reviews

Enhance your typing experience in your profession by investing in a mechanical keyboard or opting for a different switch type. Tactile switches are widely regarded as the best switches for typing comfortably and quietly. Alternatively, if you possess precise control, linear switches offer responsiveness and are favored by both gamers and typists. On the other hand, the Clicky switch, known for its loud noise, is less popular, but it can be a suitable choice if the sound doesn't bother you.

1.1. Cherry MX Brown: Best All-Around Switch for Typing

A close-up photo of a cherry mx brown mechanical keyboard switch (source: rtings) 
A close-up photo of a cherry mx brown mechanical keyboard switch (source: rtings)

Tech specs:

  • Type: Tactile (with bump)
  • Actuation Force: 45g
  • Operating Force: 56g
  • Travel Distance: 4.0mm 
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Textured
  • Noise Level: Medium

Beloved for its satisfying bump and balanced typing experience, Cherry MX Brown is a top choice. This moderate-force switch excels in typing and gaming, offering delightful feedback and accuracy-enhancing bumps with each key press. 

Pros Cons
  • Fast typing without pressing keys down
  • Tactile feedback providing a pleasant tactile feeling
  • Ergonomic typing experience
  • High typing accuracy
  • Loud sound emitted during typing 
  • Unoptimized typing speed 

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1.2. ZealPC Zilent: Best Silent Switch for Typing

Zealpc zilent switches are often considered some of the best switches for typing on the market (source: barry boards) 
Zealpc zilent switches are often considered some of the best switches for typing on the market (source: barry boards)

Tech specs:

  • Type: Silent Tactile
  • Actuation Force: 62cN
  • Operating Force: 78cN
  • Travel Distance: 4.0mm 
  • Upper Housing Color: Transparent
  • Upper Housing Finish: Smooth
  • Noise Level: Extremely Quiet

The ZealPC Zilent is one of the best switches for typing for people who are looking for a quiet, smooth, and tactile mechanical keyboard switch. This makes it ideal for late-night typists, shared spaces, and noise-sensitive environments.

Pros Cons
  • Tranquil typing experience
  • Satisfying feel that enhances typing comfort and promotes a sense of keypress accuracy
  • Balance between providing enough resistance for accuracy and avoiding excessive force
  • Higher cost compared to some alternatives
  • Metallic echo sound which impact the acoustic experience

1.3. Topre Switches: Best Feeling Switch for Typing

The soft, yet noticeable, tactile bump at the top of the topre switch keystroke provides excellent typing feedback (source: gearvn) 
The soft, yet noticeable, tactile bump at the top of the topre switch keystroke provides excellent typing feedback (source: gearvn)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Tactile
  • Actuation Force: 40 - 45g
  • Operating Force: 50 - 55g
  • Travel Distance: 4mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Black or Dark gray
  • Upper Housing Finish: Textured or smooth
  • Noise Level: Generally quiet, minimal tock sound

Topre switches are known for their unique electrostatic capacitive key switch technology, offering a tactile feel and a responsive typing experience. With a 45g actuation force, they combine mechanical and rubber dome switches, ensuring smooth keystrokes and long-lasting performance.

Pros Cons
  • Flexible connectivity
  • PBT keycaps enhancing  key longevity and typing comfort
  • Durable construction 
  • Customizable key programming 
  • Non-standard layout
  • No dedicated keys 
  • Higher price point compared to other options in the market

1.4. Gateron G Pro Yellow: Best Budget Switch for Typing

Gateron g pro yellow switches are known for their smooth operation, light actuation force, and bright yellow color (source: rtings) 
Gateron g pro yellow switches are known for their smooth operation, light actuation force, and bright yellow color (source: rtings)
  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Force: 50g
  • Operating Force: N/A
  • Travel Distance: 4.0mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Matte
  • Noise Level: Relatively quiet

Gateron G Pro Yellow switches are linear, smooth, and easy to use with a 50g actuation force. They have a black matte upper housing and a consistent feel across the entire keypress, making them the best switches for typing, ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios where quick and precise keystrokes are crucial.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth and consistent keystroke
  • Moderate actuation force for both gaming and typing
  • Sleek look with matte black upper housing
  • Limited tactile feedback
  • Not specified operating force 

1.5. Ajazz Clicky Blue Switch: Best Sounding Switch 

Ajazz clicky blue switch is one of the best switches for typing for those who enjoy a feedback-rich typing experience (source: whatgeek) 
Ajazz clicky blue switch is one of the best switches for typing for those who enjoy a feedback-rich typing experience (source: whatgeek)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Clicky
  • Actuation Force: 50g
  • Operating Force: Not specified
  • Travel Distance: 2.0mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Matte
  • Noise Level: Audibly clicky.

The Ajazz Clicky Blue is a budget-friendly typist's keyboard, offering a satisfying click and tactility at an affordable price. However, its high noise level may be unsuitable for shared spaces or noise-sensitive users.

Pros Cons
  • Budget-friendly clicky switch with satisfyingly loud feedback
  • Responsive actuation force
  • Translucent housing for custom underglow lighting
  • Smoother click with POM pivot
  • Loud noise 
  • Lack of factory lubrication
  • Limited availability in some regions

1.6. Glorious Panda: Best Tactile Switch for Typing

Beyond the satisfying bump, the glorious panda boasts exceptional smoothness because it is factory-lubed with g-lube (source: glorious) 
Beyond the satisfying bump, the glorious panda boasts exceptional smoothness because it is factory-lubed with g-lube (source: glorious)

Tech specs: 

  • Type: Tactile
  • Actuation Force: 67g
  • Operating Force: 73g 
  • Travel Distance: 4mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Ivory White
  • Upper Housing Finish: Smooth
  • Noise Level: Medium

The Glorious Panda is a popular tactile switch with smooth actuation, minimal scratchiness, and a satisfying "thocky" sound. Its 67g force makes it one of the best switches for typing because of its speedy typing and accurate keystrokes. However, factory lubing could improve the experience.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth actuation & pronounced bump
  • Tactile without scratchiness
  • Textured housing 
  • Thocky sound 
  • Lube inconsistency
  • Non-silent tactility
  • Higher actuation force

1.7. Kailh BOX Burnt Orange: Best Kailh Switch for Typing

The burnt orange is best switches for typing for heavy typists who want to exert some muscle and relish the controlled, deliberate feel of each keystroke (source: asun) 
The burnt orange is best switches for typing for heavy typists who want to exert some muscle and relish the controlled, deliberate feel of each keystroke (source: asun)

Tech Specs: 

  • Type: Tactile (Heavy)
  • Actuation Force: 60g
  • Operating Force: 80g
  • Travel Distance: 4mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Burnt Orange
  • Upper Housing Finish: Textured
  • Noise Level: Medium-High

The  Burnt Orange is among the best switches for typing and most favored Kailh switches. It boasts a 60g actuation force, making it significantly stiffer, and requiring more deliberate keystrokes. This makes it ideal for heavy typists who prefer a more solid, controlled feel. Its textured housing minimizes wobble and offers a satisfying "thocky" sound, but may not be suitable for shared spaces or light typing.

Pros Cons
  • Satisfyingly pronounced bump with minimal scratchiness 
  • Heavy, stable feel
  • Textured housing 
  • Suboptimal typing ergonomics
  • Medium to high noise level

1.8. Niz EC Switches

Niz ec switches utilize electrostatic capacitive technology, which translates to breathtakingly quiet operation, perfect for shared workspaces (source: geekhack)
Niz ec switches utilize electrostatic capacitive technology, which translates to breathtakingly quiet operation, perfect for shared workspaces (source: geekhack)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Electrostatic Capacitive (ESC)
  • Actuation Force: 45g
  • Operating Force: N/A
  • Travel Distance: 2.3mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Translucent White
  • Upper Housing Finish: Matte
  • Noise Level: Very Quiet

The Niz EC is considered among the best switches for typing. It is a lightweight, silent typing device, ideal for fast, fatigue-free typing in noise-sensitive environments. However, these keyboard switches may require some adjustment for those accustomed to traditional mechanical switches.

Pros Cons
  • Incredible lightness and silence
  • Short travel distance 
  • Unique ESC technology offers a responsive typing experience
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • No tactile bump 
  • Higher price point with ESC technology comes at a premium 
  • Less ready availability

1.9. Gateron Black Inks

The combination of smooth stems and silencing pads ensures minimal noise, making them perfect as best switches for typing at late-night sessions (source: kinetic labs)  
The combination of smooth stems and silencing pads ensures minimal noise, making them perfect as best switches for typing at late-night sessions (source: kinetic labs)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Force: 60g
  • Operating Force: 70g
  • Travel Distance: 4mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Smooth
  • Noise Level: Medium

With its quiet, smooth, and reasonably priced linear switches, the Gateron Black Inks provide precise inputs and rapid typing. Although they feature a quiet bottom-out sound that works well in most settings, extra lubrication or dampening could be required. The 60g activation force, though, could be a little bit hefty.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth, consistent feel, excellent for fast typing
  • Medium noise level
  • Affordable price
  • Versatile for different uses
  • Basic appearance
  • No tactile feedback

1.10. NovelKeys Creams

Novelkeys creams switches operate with breathtaking quietness, thanks to their design and factory silencing pads (source: reddit) 
Novelkeys creams switches operate with breathtaking quietness, thanks to their design and factory silencing pads (source: reddit)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Tactile
  • Actuation Force: 67g
  • Operating Force: 75g
  • Travel Distance: 4mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Cream White
  • Upper Housing Finish: Smooth
  • Noise Level: Medium - Low

NovelKeys Creams are smooth, well-rounded tactile, and known for their delightful typing experience. As one of the best switches for typing, they offer satisfying feedback without excessive scratchiness, making them ideal for accurate keystrokes. They produce a muffled "thock" sound, suitable for most environments.

Pros Cons
  • Satisfying tactile feedback 
  • Textured housing 
  • Affordable price compared to other premium tactile
  • No full silence, especially with inconsistent factory lube
  • Limited availability

1.11. Holy Pandas

The holy panda boasts a classic two-tone aesthetic with its housing coming in white or milky white color, often paired with a salmon pink stem (source: brandon taylor) 
The holy panda boasts a classic two-tone aesthetic with its housing coming in white or milky white color, often paired with a salmon pink stem (source: brandon taylor)
  • Type: Tactile
  • Actuation Force: 67g 
  • Operating Force: 80g 
  • Travel Distance: 4mm 
  • Upper Housing Color: Milky White
  • Upper Housing Finish: Textured
  • Noise Level: Medium- High

The Holy Panda is a heavy, textured POM switch with a satisfying thock sound, ideal for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a firm keypress. Despite not being quiet or fast, its unique sound profile and grippy feel make it a favorite for luxurious typing experiences.

Pros Cons
  • Pronounced tactility
  • Distinctive thock sound 
  • High-quality construction
  • Heavy actuation and operating forces 
  • Loud noise
  • Higher price compared to other options

1.12. Cherry MX Silver

Cherry mx silver switches come with a transparent top housing, allowing you to see the internal components, including the spring and stem (source: overclockers) 
Cherry mx silver switches come with a transparent top housing, allowing you to see the internal components, including the spring and stem (source: overclockers)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Linear
  • Actuation Force: 45g 
  • Operating Force: 45g 
  • Travel Distance: 3.4mm 
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Smooth
  • Noise Level: High 

Gamers adore the blazing speed of Cherry MX Silvers, but for those seeking a comfortable and engaging typing experience, look elsewhere. These switches are lightweight and lack tactility that are less suitable for long typing sessions and may cause discomfort.

Pros Cons
  • Ultra-fast actuation
  • Short travel distance 
  • Durable and reliable
  • Competitive price compared to other switches
  • High risk of accidental key presses
  • Mushy and imprecise feeling
  • High noise level with clicky, metallic ping 

1.13. Razer Green

For those who love satisfying feedback, and distinct clickety-clack, the razer green is a dream come true, and is one of the best switches for typing (source: gearshop) 
For those who love satisfying feedback, and distinct clickety-clack, the razer green is a dream come true, and is one of the best switches for typing (source: gearshop)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Clicky
  • Actuation Force: 50g 
  • Operating Force: 65g 
  • Travel Distance: 4.0mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Textured
  • Noise Level: Loud 

The Razer Green is among the best switches for typing and a popular gamer switch known for its loud clicky sound and tactile bump. Its moderate actuation force makes it responsive for gaming and offers some resistance for typing accuracy. However, its noise level can be disruptive in shared spaces and its heavier operating force may be uncomfortable for extended typing sessions.

Pros Cons
  • Auditory feedback and excitement for gamers
  • Clear actuation point for accurate typing
  • Responsive for gaming and fast typing.
  • Built to last from a reputable brand
  • Loud noise
  • Finger fatigue during long typing sessions
  • Lower actuation
  • Higher price compared to other options

Smooth, comfortable play, or dazzling speed and features? You may be wondering between Logitech and Razer. Compare them to see if they are the best choice for you.

1.14. SteelSeries Apex Pro

Thanks to its innovative hall effect magnetic switches, the apex pro is considered best switches for typing allowing you to adjust the actuation force for each key (source: pinterest) 
Thanks to its innovative hall effect magnetic switches, the apex pro is considered best switches for typing allowing you to adjust the actuation force for each key (source: pinterest)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Adjustable Actuation
  • Actuation Force: 40g - 80g
  • Operating Force: 45g
  • Travel Distance: 4.0mm
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Matte
  • Noise Level: Medium - Low 

With its adjustable actuation force, Hall Effect magnetic sensors, and sturdy design, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is one of the best typing switches available. It provides a personalized typing experience. But not everyone may find its unique technologies and upscale features appealing. For mechanical keyboards, this one is priced in the upper echelon.

Pros Cons
  • Adjustable actuation force
  • Hall Effect magnetic sensors
  • High-quality materials
  • Expensive
  • No tactile feedback
  • Switch incompatibility due to the unique switch design

1.15. Romer-G (Logitech)

Romer-g can be pleasing for those who prefer a slimmer keyboard look and can also offer a slightly shorter travel distance, making it the best switches for typing (source: cherry turbos) 
Romer-g can be pleasing for those who prefer a slimmer keyboard look and can also offer a slightly shorter travel distance, making it the best switches for typing (source: cherry turbos)

Tech Specs:

  • Type: Tactile 
  • Actuation Force: 50g 
  • Operating Force: 60g 
  • Travel Distance: 4mm 
  • Upper Housing Color: Black
  • Upper Housing Finish: Textured
  • Noise Level: Medium 

The Romer-G Tactile is a responsive, moderately actuated switch with a distinct bump for each keystroke, providing clear feedback. As one of the best switches for typing, its textured housing enhances grip and accuracy, but it's not quite due to the longer travel distance and potential keycap wobble.

Pros Cons
  • Clear feedback for accurate typing
  • Nice responsiveness without being fatiguing
  • Textured housing
  • High click volume
  • Open-office incompatibility
  • Non-standard keycap profile

2. What makes the best switches for typing?

There are a few different factors to consider while searching for best switches for typing, including actuator force, travel distance, tactile feedback, noise level typing experience, and durability. We will review each of them and explain how to choose the best switch.

2.1. Actuation force

When it comes to best switches for typing, overly strong actuation forces might cause typing to become tiresome and slow down. On the other hand, excessive lightness can result in erroneous typing and a higher probability of errors.

Lower actuation force is generally preferred by those who want a softer typing feel. On the other hand, switches with a higher actuation force might be chosen by people who want a harder typing feel.

Lightweight switches can be less tiring for extended typing sessions, while heavier switches might require more effort (source: the gaming setup) 
Lightweight switches can be less tiring for extended typing sessions, while heavier switches might require more effort (source: the gaming setup)

2.2. Travel distance

Travel distance refers to how far a key needs to be pressed down to register a keystroke. Generally, short travel distances (around 3mm) offer faster keystrokes and are preferred by gamers for speed and responsiveness. Cherry MX Speed Silver is a short travel distance switch.

Long travel distances (around 4mm or more) provide a more deliberate typing experience with noticeable feedback which are better for accuracy and comfort, especially for writers and typists. Cherry MX Brown is a long travel distance switch.

Short travel promotes rapid-fire typing, ideal for gamers and speed demons, but can feel less satisfying for those who enjoy the deliberate feeling of a keystroke (source: rtings) 
Short travel promotes rapid-fire typing, ideal for gamers and speed demons, but can feel less satisfying for those who enjoy the deliberate feeling of a keystroke (source: rtings)

2.3. Tactile feedback

The satisfying bump or click of a keypress can be invigorating, confirming your actions and boosting accuracy. Linear switches offer a smooth journey, while tactile and clicky ones provide distinct feedback. Gamers might prefer a clicky switch for fast actions, while writers might enjoy the subtle bump of a tactile switch for long sessions.

Tactile feedback isn't just a binary on, or off switch; it comes in a vibrant spectrum of feels, influencing your typing experience in myriad ways (source: switch and click) 
Tactile feedback isn't just a binary on, or off switch; it comes in a vibrant spectrum of feels, influencing your typing experience in myriad ways (source: switch and click)

2.4. Noise level

Noise level is a crucial factor when choosing the best typing switches. Linear switches, known for their smooth keypresses, are the quietest switch option, making them ideal for shared spaces or late-night typing. Gateron G Pro Yellow and Cherry MX Silver are popular linear switches.

Tactile switches offer a middle ground, providing a satisfying bump for accurate typing, with Cherry MX Brown and Glorious Panda being well-known examples. Finally, clicky switches deliver a distinct clicky sound with each press, perfect for those who enjoy a responsive feel. However, their heavier actuation force can lead to finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.

Noise level, in the realm of mechanical keyboards, refers to the volume of sound produced when typing that accompanies your keystrokes (source: carousell) 
Noise level, in the realm of mechanical keyboards, refers to the volume of sound produced when typing that accompanies your keystrokes (source: carousell)

2.5. Typing experience

Light typists type across keys with minimal force, their fingers flitting like butterflies. For them, speed and efficiency reign supreme. Others seek a more deliberate touch, enjoying the tactile satisfaction of a pronounced bump or click, each keystroke a satisfying confirmation. For them, accuracy and control take center stage. And then there are those who crave a balance, a smooth glide with gentle feedback. 

The typing experience is one of the main factors to consider to choosing the best switches for typing (source: key boards expert) 
The typing experience is one of the main factors to consider to choosing the best switches for typing (source: key boards expert)

2.6. Durability

When it comes to durability, the best typing switches are built to endure millions of keystrokes. Top contenders boast high keystroke ratings, often exceeding 50 million presses.

For heavy typists or those investing in premium keyboards, durability is crucial. Look for switches crafted with high-quality materials like nylon housings and gold-plated contacts for enhanced endurance. You can consider Cherry MX Brown and Silver, Gateron G Pro Yellow, Gateron Black Inks and ZealPC Zilent for best durability.

Robust materials like high-grade plastics and metal for the chassis and keycaps ensure the keyboard can handle daily wear and tear (source: gearzone) 
Robust materials like high-grade plastics and metal for the chassis and keycaps ensure the keyboard can handle daily wear and tear (source: gearzone)

3. Tips to improve typing experience

Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, these key tips can help you unlock a whole new level of comfort and efficiency.

  • Try out different switches before buying: Keyboards offer various switch "flavors" like shoes. Experiment with different switches (feel, sound, actuation force) to discover your ideal combination for speed, accuracy, and comfort.
  • Consider the noise level and environment: Consider your environment. Opt for quieter switches (linears) or minimize keycap noise (o-rings) for quiet spaces. Conversely, explore louder switches or sound-enhancing methods for noisy or private environments.
  • Pay attention to ergonomics: Besides switches, ergonomic factors significantly impact your typing experience. Aim for a neutral spine, relaxed shoulders, and straight or slightly bent wrists. Adjust your desk height to prevent strain on your wrists and shoulders. Good posture prevents fatigue and improves typing speed and accuracy.
  • Explore the world of modding: Modding your keyboard physically tweaks its feel, sound, and performance. Popular mods include lubricating moving parts to reduce friction, clipping stabilizer legs for a smoother travel, and applying tape or band-aid patches to reduce rattle. Tactile and linear switches benefit most from modding.
  • Sculpt your keycaps for enhanced comfort: Ditch flat keycaps! Choose sculpted keycaps with varying heights and angles that match your finger contours. This design enhances comfort, reduces fatigue, and improves typing accuracy through better tactile feedback.

Want to learn more about lubing and filming switches? Check out these articles!

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best switches for typing is crucial for an optimal typing experience. With various options catering to different preferences, such as the tactile feel of Cherry MX Browns or the smooth actuation of Topre switches, users can tailor their choice to suit individual needs.

FAQs

1. Is the Red or Brown switch better for typing?

Brown switches offer tactile feedback while maintaining a quiet profile, making them ideal for both accuracy and office use. Red switches are silent and smooth but lack feedback, which can lead to typos.

2. Are Blue or Brown switches better for typing?

Brown switches strike a balance between feedback and noise, making them more suitable for typing than blue switches which are loud and clicky.

3. How can I determine which switch is suitable for office work?

When choosing a network switch for your office, prioritize quiet operation, user-friendliness, and performance. For a silent workspace, consider fanless desktop switches like ZealPC Zilent, Topre Switches, Gateron G Pro Yellow, Niz EC Switches

4. Which switches do professional gamers prefer?

Most pro gamers tend to use linear switches for gaming, as they offer a smooth and fast keystroke without any tactile or audible feedback. Some of the popular linear switches for gaming are Gateron G Pro Yellow, Cherry MX Silver and Gateron Black Inks.

5. Where can I purchase the best switches for typing?

The best switches for typing can be purchased from various retailers, including online platforms like Amazon, and MechanicalKeyboards.com, or specialty brands like Cherry MX, mechanical keyboard specialty stores, and electronics retailers.

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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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