Find the Best Tactile Switches for your Keyboard (Top Picks in 2024)

  • Keycaps 101
  • Posted by: carson-rutz
  • Sep 9, 2024

Sick of constant typing errors? Then, upgrade to thocky tactile switches now.
Tactile switches provide a satisfying bump for feedback without the loud clicks of their clicky counterparts. The sound comes from the keycap bottoming out or the bump itself. Renowned for producing the most thock, tactile switches boost your typing accuracy and create a fantastic user experience.
If you’re on the hunt for a new set, we’ve gathered the 15 best tactile switches that are stealing the spotlight this year!

Switches Special Features Award Price
Gateron Baby Kangaroo

Gateron baby kangaroo

  • Snappy, satisfying feedback
  • Medium, resonant, and higher-pitched sound
  • Upgraded light guide pole, and improved pins
None $27.00 for 40 pcs
Boba U4T Switches

Boba u4t switches

  • Pronounced "thocc" with each keystroke
  • Fuller bottom-out feel and strong tactile bump
  • Minimal rattle
None $10.85 for 10 pcs
Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro

Akko v3 cream blue pro

  • Medium-weight switches with a smooth, mild bump
  • A snappy, higher-pitched "tappy" sound
None $8.99 for 45 pcs
TTC Silent Bluish White

Ttc silent bluish white

  • Quiet tet tactile with a silicone-muted bottom
  • Satisfying resistance with a quick rebound
None $38.90 for 70 pcs
Kailh Box Royal

Kailh box royal

  • Intense tactile feel with a hefty 70g actuation force
  • Crisp bump
  • Tinny, higher-pitched sound
None $67.00 for 110 pcs
KTT Matcha

Ktt matcha

  • Feather-light tactile feel
  • Low-pitched, smooth sound
  • Perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch
None $8.91 for 18 pcs
WS Light Tactile

Ws light tactile

  • Smooth keystroke with a snappy tactile bump
  • Gentle, two-stage sensation
  • Neutral silent sound
None $8.10 for 18 pcs
Gateron Beer

Gateron beer

  • Super light switches come with massive tactile bump
  • High-pitched clacks with sharp, crisp noise
None $21.00 for 35 pcs
Topre Tactile Switch

Topre tactile switch

  • Use electrostatic and capacitive technology
  • Satisfying "thonk" sound, crisp feedback
None $4.57 per pcs

*Note: The prices are updated as of October, 2024 and may change over time.

Still don’t know much about tactile switch? Then take a look at this full guide of tactile switches before exploring our detailed reviews of the best ones.

Gateron Baby Kangaroo - Best Overall Tactile Switch

A niche seldom heard of tactile switches, Gateron Baby Kangaroo switches (BK) lead this today’s list for their balanced features. These offer a great middle ground between clicky and traditional tactile switches.

Brand Gateron
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 59g
Travel Distance 3.4mm
Price $0.67

Not sure if you're into clicky, linear, or something else? Check out this guide that breaks down the three main types of switches: Linear, Tactile, and Clicky.

Gateron baby kangaroo | source: kiibo studio
Gateron baby kangaroo | source: kiibo studio

First, regarding design, BKs feature an upgraded light guide pole and improved pins for a better user experience, while keeping the original clear cover, nylon PA66 milky base, and bright green POM stem.

Second, the tactile bump! BKs are praised for their satisfying, snappy feel without being overwhelming. Their tactile feeling ahead comes from a rapid pressure point followed by a sudden release.

These switches deliver a crisp, resonant bump. The actuation force of 59g strikes the perfect balance, satisfying but not tiring, and the rebound is quiet and precise.

Typing feels like your fingers are bouncing on mini trampolines, thanks to their double-stage gold-plated spring, which has a narrowed spring force tolerance for added consistency.

And, let's not forget about the sound! The sound profile of BKs is medium, marbly and pleasantly resonant, largely due to the long pole stem. Their pitch is higher compared to Gateron Pro Reds, which share the same board, the Reds may sound thockier. 

Baby Kangaroo switches are just like “non-linear linears" which boast comfortably tactile. These are a great choice for anyone seeking the best tactile switches for typing.

While non-linear switches provide a tactile response with varying force, some users prefer the smooth consistency of linear switches. If you value that consistency, don’t miss our list of the best linear switch.

Pros Cons
  • Upgraded design with improved components
  • Satisfying, snappy tactile bump
  • Crisp, resonant sound profile
  • Comfortable and bouncy typing experience
  • Factory lube
  • A bit expensive compared to other tactile switches
  • Higher pitch might not suit everyone
  • Can be sticky after a while use

Boba U4T Switches - Best Tactile Switch for Thocky Sound

Outemu, a big name in the mechanical keyboard world, has teamed up with Gazzew to create the Boba U4T switches. These switches are one of the best thocky tactile switches and highly sought after onlines.

Brand GAZZEW
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 62g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $1.08

Need an introduction of Outemu? Here’s everything you need, plus a breakdown of 7 types of Outemu switches.

Boba u4t switch is one of the best switches for thocky sound | source: reddit
Boba u4t switch is one of the best switches for thocky sound | source: reddit

So, do these thocky tactile switches really live up to the hype? Unlike the original Boba U4, which softens the noise with silicone dampeners, the U4T goes all out on auditory satisfaction. These switches bring the satisfying “thocc” sound on impact with a highly pronounced tactile bump, arguably one of the best tactile feels out there. However, you won't enjoy the perks of a silent switch.

While these switches excel at producing a deep, rich sound, you can still unlock that perfect thock by foam modding your case and adding some lubing, bandaid modding, and stabilizer clipping. These tweaks will not only boost your sound quality but also eliminate any high-pitched sounds that may arise.

Well, just in time if you’re considering lubing your switches. Don't  forget to carefully read Switches Lube Guide for all the steps and tips you need to do it right.

Let’s talk design! Boba U4T features both clear and opaque (RGB) housings. The plus side is its longer stem, which makes the bottom-out experience feel broader and more fulfilling. Additionally, This design ensures a solid tactile bump throughout the downstroke, minimal rattle, and excellent stem tolerances.

If you're on the hunt for the best thocky tactile switch, the Gazzew Boba U4T is your top pick. But if you prefer a gentler bump, we’ve got another great medium bump option just below.

Pros Cons
  • Excellent thock sound
  • Strong and pronounced tactile bump
  • Deep, rich sound which is better with some modifications
  • Sturdy and durable
  • More expensive compared to other options in this list
  • Lubrication is not provided
  • Not as quiet as some other options
  • Limited availability

Glorious Panda Switches - Snappiest Tactile Switch

Brand Glorious PC Gaming Race
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 67g
Travel Distance 3.5mm
Price 0.69
Glorious panda switches | gba temp
Glorious panda switches | gba temp

The Glorious Panda switches are of the best tactile switches with the finest quality and offer exceptional tactility, completely living up to their reputation of being glorious. These Glorious Panda switches can be used for a variety of purposes, including typing, gaming, and just carrying out a professional job.

The switches have stems that go with bright golden and orange, making them shine out more. The switches resemble Holy Panda switches in terms of the housing and off-white color.

The Glorious Switches have succeeded in creating a tactile bump that is excellent proof of what a highly tactile switch should feel like while maintaining the switches' functionality.

In terms of sound, the tactile bump of the Glorious Panda generates a mid-pitched snapping sound, although it is not as sharp as those of other highly tactile switches that compete with it.

The sound can be noticed during both the downstroke and upstroke travel. Besides, the minor scratch noises you notice with any normal typing pace are quickly drowned out by this snapping sound.

Additionally, the tactile switches' strong actuation force should be still another compelling aspect in its favor, and typing on them does seem quite natural.

For those who prefer a really strong tactile bump that is more distinct than other switches on our list, we highly recommend Glorious Panda switches.

The switch does give you access to a high level of performance perfection at a reasonable price. Nevertheless, the feedback you get might just turn out to be the best tactile switches ever.

Pros Cons
  • Compatible with most sockets.
  • Durable materials 
  • Strong ‘bump’ at the start of the downstroke
  • Quickly snap back to their position during the upstroke
  • Not the best lubricant provided
  • RGB-light-dampening opaque cases
  • Weigh more at 67g for gaming switches
  • Insufficient pin protection packaging

Drop Halo Clear Switches - A Long Smooth Bump

Brand Kaihua
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 45g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $0.41
Drop halo clear switches
Drop halo clear switches

Kaihua's Drop Halo Clear switches, resembling Cherry MX Clears in actuation force and spring weight, feature a clear housing for enhanced RGB illumination. Unique to these switches is the "pre-loaded" spring, positioning the tactile bump at the keystroke's onset. With a heavier 78g bottom-out force and 65g tactile force, it differs from standard tactile switches in providing a more substantial feel.

As the keystroke progresses, the resistance initially drops after the bump but increases towards the end. These durable switches promise longevity with a lifespan of 80 million keystrokes and robust construction. Priced around $0.6 per switch, cost-effective choice for those seeking quality tactile switches with RGB compatibility.

Besides Halo Clear, Halo True is also a high-quality tactile switch manufactured by KaiHua, so which one is better for you? Read this article to find out the answer.

Pros Cons
  • Smoothly weighted and precise typing experience
  • Combines finest qualities of Topre 55g & Cherry MX Clear switches
  • Enhances the RGB lighting effect 
  • Affordable price
  • Adjustments and fine-tuning after setup and installation
  • Spring ping production may be distracting

Durock Sunflower T1 Switches - Best Mid-Range Tactile Switch

Brand JWK
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 67g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $1.29
Durock t1 switches
Durock t1 switches

For those seeking top-notch tactile switches with a substantial bump, the Durock T1 is the ideal choice. These JWK switches offer excellent tactile feedback and a smooth, early bump akin to Gateron Ink switches, renowned for their smoothness.

While they lack in sound quality and have somewhat fragile housings, they can be improved with a film. Durock T1 switches come pre-lubricated, making them a great option for those on a medium budget looking for a crisp yet not overly forceful tactile experience.

Pros Cons
  • Sound clean and crisp
  • Smooth and no scratchiness
  • Superior stability and response time
  • Robust tactile feedback at the top of the keypress
  • Pre-lubricated
  • Not include opener in package
  • May not top-tier auditory experience
  • Quite flimsy housings
  • May stick when pressed off center
  • Inconsistency when pressed slowly

Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro - Best Budget Tactile Switch

Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, not much to say other than these are good but cheap switches, great for a budget guy.

Brand Akko
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 39g
Travel Distance 3.5mm
Price $0.19

While Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro do cost a bit more than the previous Akko V3 Cream Blue switches, the small price bump is totally worth it thanks to some upgrades, like the new dustproof stem cover that boosts stability.

These medium-weight tactile switches offer an early rise into a satisfying mild bump. It’s not the most pronounced bump out there, but it’s quick and smooth, making typing a breeze.

Akko v3 cream blue pro | source: reddit
Akko v3 cream blue pro | source: reddit

That said, even though they come pre-lubed from the factory, you might find them a bit scratchy and pingy right out of the box, with a slight clicky sound when bottomed out.

The sound profile is where they might surprise you. They have a strong, snappy feel with a sound that falls somewhere between clicky and marbley. They’re on the louder side and produce a higher-pitched, tappy sound signature compared to many tactile options that lean towards a deeper, more resonant tone.

So, if you’re all about that clacky, loud typing vibe, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pros are calling your name! But most of you are very happy with the price, right?

Pros Cons
  • Inexpensive
  • Upgraded dustproof stem cover
  • Offer satisfying bump
  • Quick and smooth typing experience
  • May feel scratchy and pingy at first
  • Slight clicky sound when bottomed out
  • Higher-pitched sound may not suit everyone's taste
  • Louder than many other tactile options

Cherry MX Brown Switch - Best Standard Tactile Switch

Brand Cherry MX
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 55g
Travel Distance 2mm
Price $0.96
Cherry mx brown | ali express
Cherry mx brown | ali express

The Cherry MX Brown is the most common tactile switch available and is regarded as one of the best tactile switches with multiple purposes on the market today. With brown stems, steel springs, and a nylon casing, it offers a tactile bump, moderate actuation force, and noiseless operation

The switches are comfortable for typing, providing a slight noticeable bump for a light and snappy experience. Their black casing ensures quiet and firm keystrokes and is known for their robustness and dependability. Undergoing rigorous quality testing and rated for over 100 million keystrokes.

Pros Cons
  • Versatile for various uses
  • Bumpy and noiseless
  • Undergo rigorous quality testing
  • Highly comfortable typing
  • Not finger-breaking
  • Very durable
  • May scratchiness 
  • Too light to type on
  • Not good for a long time typing
  • Bad stabilizers may rattle
  • Need pre-lubed

Zealios V2 - Best High End Tactile Switch

Brand ZealPC
Actuation Force 62g, 65g, 67g, and 78g
Pre-travel Distance No
Total Travel Distance None
Price $1.1
Gateron zealio v2 tactile switches bottom out force with 5pin rgb for mechanical keyboard (source: zealpc)
Gateron zealio v2 tactile switches bottom out force with 5pin rgb for mechanical keyboard (source: zealpc)

Zealios V2 switches, born from a ZealPC and Gateron collaboration, stand out in the tactile switch market. Available in 62g, 65g, 67g, and 78g variants, they offer a distinct, yet not too loud tactile bump. This feedback, while clear, results in a somewhat mediocre sound due to the abrupt tactile event and leaf reverb. Designed with a seamless feel, these switches provide ideal feedback for continuous typing.

Similar yet superior to Holy Pandas, Zealios V2 switches boast a sharp tactile response and a smooth P-Bump with no pre-travel. With about 3 millimeters of post-travel, they epitomize high-quality design and functionality. Additionally, at $1.1 per switch, not an affordable option for budget-conscious builds without compromising on performance.

Pros Cons
  • Durability and reliability significantly with a 5-pin design 
  • Bigger and smoother tactile bump
  • Reduced wobble enhances the typing experience
  • Sharp tactile feedback
  • Quite expensive
  • May be over-sensitive and unintended key presses

Cherry MX Clear Switch - Heavy and Bumpy Tactile Switch

Brand Cherry MX
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 65g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $0.45
Cherry mx clear switch | reddit
Cherry mx clear switch | reddit

The Cherry MX Clear is the Cherry MX Brown's younger sister; however, the Clear weighs a lot more and has a bigger bump. The tactility is fairly round and not too sharp.

The Cherry MX Clear can be a wonderful choice for you if you like to type a lot. Additionally, you may be sure of its great longevity because the Cherry MX brand stands behind it.

Since they are less popular than Cherry Brown switches, you will typically need to purchase the switch separately and put it into a keyboard by yourself.

There are still many more interesting things about the best tactile switches from Cherry brand, don't miss out on this post: Cherry MX Switches: A Complete Color Review.

Pros Cons
  • Heavier resistance and bumpy feel
  • Not tiring when typing without bottoming out
  • Quite smooth and lacks a sharp
  • Good gaming performance
  • Decent sound profile
  • Buy separately and self install 
  • Spring’s stiffness might be too much
  • Some scratchiness in off-center keypresses
  • Tactility might not be sufficient

Kailh Speed Copper Switch - Best Tactile Switch for Gaming

Brand Kailh
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 60g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $0.28
Kailh speed copper switch | scaff
Kailh speed copper switch | scaff

Another very reliable option for gaming in this list is Kailh Speed Copper. This switch has a milky white switch housing, a translucent color on the top housing, and a brown stem design.

Although the tactile bump is not as strong, it still provides excellent tactile feedback. Thanks to that, a very enjoyable gaming experience are provided by the quick and bumpy typing feedback together with the resulting thocky sound.

These switches would be a fantastic choice for someone who plays video games frequently because the Speed Copper switch has a little shorter travel distance, which can help you save time in games that need a split-second reaction time.

Undoubtedly, this is one of the best tactile mechanical switches for increasing your effectiveness with a lifespan of 70 million key presses.

Pros Cons
  • Faster Actuation and Shorter Travel Distance
  • Kailh's design improves the click sound, more satisfying
  • Click bar design, produces a small click sound in both directions
  • Kailh switches are generally known to be scratchy
  • Not strong tactile bump

TTC Silent Bluish White - Best Silent Tactile Switch For Gaming

Wanna go silent? Here is your top pick: TTC Silent Blueish White switches.

Brand TTC
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 39g
Travel Distance 3.5mm
Price $0.55

TTC Bluish White switches are your go-to for a medium-tactility experience, featuring a silicone-muted bottom that keeps things super quiet. You can add a little extra lube for an even quieter vibe, but honestly, they’re great as is! Their sound is soft thuds like raindrops falling against the window.

Ttc silent bluish white | source: berserkeys
Ttc silent bluish white | source: berserkeys

 

Just remember, no switch is truly silent!  While they’re not as quiet as silent linear options, they’re still much quieter than standard tactile switches.

With a medium tactile feel and double-stage springs, TTC Silent Blueish White switches provide satisfying resistance and a snappy rebound for a precise and comfortable typing experience. They also have a relatively shallow total travel, so a lighter touch is best to avoid that abrupt bottoming-out sensation.

In terms of the design, TTC Silent Blueish White features a powder blue stem and bottom housing with a clear top, allowing for great RGB lighting. Their double-safety silencing structure, combined with a broad impact contact area and minimal elastic deformation, ensures a noticeable mute effect and smooth pressing.

All in all, TTC Silent Blueish White are your best pals if you crave tactile feedback while keeping things quiet.

Look for other best silent switch options? Go no further since we've rounded up a full list of 15 Quietest Mechanical Keyboard Switches for you.

Pros Cons
  • Very quiet with a silicone-muted bottom
  • Medium-tactility with satisfying resistance
  • Smooth pressing thanks to a double-safety silencing structure
  • Appealing design
  • Not as silent as linear switches
  • Can be harder to find on major online retailers

Kailh Box Royal - Heaviest Tactile Switch 

Kailh BOX Royal is a switch developed by Novelkeys and Kailh, designed to take their BOX switches to the next level and create a tactile experience that breaks free from the ordinary.

Brand Kailh
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 45g
Travel Distance 3.6mm
Price $0.60

Kailh BOX Royal switches offer an intense tactile experience, ideal for those who want even more feedback with a heavier spring weight. With an operating force of 70g, these switches require more effort to register, suitable for heavy typists.

The stems boast a bigger bump on the ramp than the BOX Brown, creating a more pronounced tactile feel. That sharp kink on the slider ramp adds an extra punch, making the bump feel way more intense than what you’d get from MX Browns and their clones.

Kailh box royal | source: amazon
Kailh box royal | source: amazon

 

The sound is NO chill for these switch. They are higher-pitched compared to other BOX switches. This can create a tinny tone that feels thinner than MX switches, potentially off-putting for some.

MX switches have a ton of options! Wondering how each one sounds? Read Cherry MX Color Review to hear them all, then compare them to the Kailh BOX Royal.

Additionally, if placed in a case without dampening, it can amplify the hollow noise, making it sound even thinner. One more downside is that the downstroke clack is loud and can be annoying, with noticeable spring noise due to its tactile design. Overall, it feels a bit rattly, which isn’t great for those who prefer silence.

In the end, Kailh BOX Royal heavy tactile switches might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But if you're after a big, satisfying bump, these are for you.

Pros Cons
  • Strong tactile feedback with a heavy spring, best for heavy typists
  • Pronounced tactile feel
  • Larger bump than BOX Brown for better feel
  • Annoying sound with higher pitch and loud clack
  • May not suit everyone

KTT Matcha - Lightest Tactile Switch

If you’ve got the hefty Kailh Box Royal, then meet the lightest tactile switch KTT Matcha.

Brand KTT
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 40g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $0.49

The Macha is a gentle switch with an actuation force of just 40g and a bottom-out force of 45g. This makes it lighter than 97% of switches out there.

Ktt matcha | source: alibaba
Ktt matcha | source: alibaba

Even though they’re the lightest option, they still deliver a satisfying tactile feel. The bump isn’t as pronounced as on other switches, but it remains noticeable and enjoyable for long typing sessions.

Whisper sweet nothings with their low-pitched, marbly sound, though they might not be as muted as some folks like. The downside is they do come factory-lubed, but the consistency can be a bit hit or miss, so hand-lubing is the way to go for that perfect feel.

In short, if you’re after a gentle typing experience with a soft sound for everyday use, KTT Matcha switches are a delightful surprise you didn’t know you needed. They're great for beginners and keyboard lovers alike.

Pros Cons
  • Ultra-light with only 40g actuation force
  • Satisfying tactile feel, even if the bump is subtle
  • Low-pitched, marbly sound for a pleasant typing experience
  • Factory lube can be inconsistent
  • May feel too light for those who prefer heavier switches

WS Light Tactile - Most Underrated Tactile Switch

Meet the WS Light Tactile, a light challenger to Matcha!

Brand Wuque Studio
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 45g
Travel Distance 3.9mm
Price $0.45

If you thought WS Morandi linear switches had the smooth keystroke market cornered. Think again as WS has stepped up to deliver that same silky touch in a light tactile format, and the results are fantastic.

This switch offers a smooth keystroke paired with a snappy, noticeable tactile bump. With a bottom-out force of just 50g, it’s lighter than 90% of switches, making for an enjoyable typing experience. Its stepped design adds a subtle two-stage feel, and it’s super easy to activate, perfect for marathon typing sessions.

Ws light tactile | source: chosfox
Ws light tactile | source: chosfox

 

When it comes to sound, the WS Light Tactile features a neutral sound profile. Right out of the box, it has a decent tactile sound without any annoying pings or leaf crunches, though you might notice a bit of scratchiness

While generally quieter than typical tactile switches, you can still hear that satisfying light bump, giving it a distinct clappy and sharp tactile tone.

In summary, the WS Light Tactile switch is an excellent pick for anyone seeking a light, smooth, and responsive typing experience.

Pros Cons
  • Satisfying feedback on each press
  • Light actuation force
  • Neutral sound profile, that is suitable for many users
  • Still have some slight scratchiness
  • Clappy tone may not suit everyone’s tastes
  • Might feel a bit too light for fans of heavier switches

Gateron Beer - Most Unique Tactile Switch 

Now let's talk about the most unique switch on the block - the Gateron Beer switches inspired by the lively beer festival in Qindao.

Brand Gateron
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 50g
Travel Distance 3.4mm
Price $0.6

When we think of light tactile switches, we usually consider the spring weight and bump size. Typically, lighter springs mean smaller bumps, but the Beer switches turn that idea upside down.

With a super light spring weight of just 50g which is lighter than 90% of other switches, these bad boys also boast a big tactile bump. Pressing down on a Gateron Beer switch feels like a fun surprise with a massive tactile bump.

Gateron Beer 5 pin vs mechanical switch 3 pin

The light spring means you won’t tire out your fingers, creating a unique and enjoyable experience. Plus, the extra-long 22mm spring adds a delightful bounce. However, when you type quickly, the lighter force can result in unintentional key presses if you're not careful.

Plus, the Gateron Beer switches have a loud, crisp noise that’s perfect for fans of high-pitched clacks. Another bonus point is the 5-pin upgrade which boosts stability and reduces wobbling compared to 3-pin options. Gateron Beer is one of the best tactile switches for gaming thanks to its precision and reliability.

In a nutshell, Gateron Beer switches are a standout switch that breaks the mold, perfect for anyone looking for something refreshingly different. So why not pop open some beer bottles to celebrate?

Pros Cons
  • Refreshingly different from usual switches
  • Unique housing design inspired by a fun beer festival
  • Lightweight makes typing easy and quick
  • Big tactile bump adds a fun feel when typing
  • Light force may cause accidental key presses
  • Loud sound might not be for everyone

Gateron Brown

Brand Gateron 
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 55g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $0.70
Gateron brown | punk ston
Gateron brown | punk ston

How can we ignore the Gateron family of switches while talking about affordable, high-quality tactile switches? The best tactile switches coming from the company Gateron were debuted with the Gateron Brown switches.

The switches are simple to use, lower in weight and offer a very good tactile bump. Another important element that you should discover to be really interesting and amazing is the low actuation point.

Moreover, The Gateron Brown switches are available quite affordably on Amazon. Yet, there are certain disadvantages to the lower prices.

One of them is that the switches might not provide you with the same stability as other tactile switches available. The switches' lower actuation should further make them a popular choice for simple actuation.

Thus, with tactile feedback and slightly higher actuation force, these Brown switches are the best choice for gamer.

Related Articles

Zilent V2

Brand ZealPC
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 62g, 65g, 67g, and 78g
Price $1.3
Zilent v2
Zilent v2

The widely used Zealios V2 now has a silent variant - the Zilents V2. This is a really fantastic tactile switch, much like its brother.

There are many features that the Zealios and Zilents V2 have in common; however, you'll notice that the Zilents have a little less tactility. This can be attributed to the lower travel distance.

Furthermore, the Zilents' sound dampeners perform a great job of eliminating any audible noises that might have been caused by the tactile bump without generating any mush.

Yet, like Zealios, the Zilents are also so expensive that you should expect to pay about $1.3 per switch.

Topre Tactile Switch - Best Electro-Capacitive Design Tactile Switch

An outlier on this list, not mechanical but a topre tactile switch!

Brand Topre
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 30g, 35g, 45g, and 50g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $4.57

Topre switches are a unique blend of electrostatic and capacitive technology to create something truly special that outshines your regular tactile switches. This tech mash-up gives Topre Tactile switches a unique combo of smoothness, tactile feedback, and durability that keeps typists coming back for more.

Great, right? It's no surprise when catching Topre switches made it onto our list of the 16 best switches for office use.

Topre tactile switch | source: reddit
Topre tactile switch | source: reddit

 

Unlike your typical tactile switches, they boast a unique rubber dome design that delivers a satisfying "thock" sound, crisper feedback, improved tactility, reduced noise, and a non-mushy bottom-out. Moreover, these different actuation forces, ranging from 30 to 50g, let typists find their ideal balance..

With their innovative take on typing, Topre switches bring a whole new vibe, especially on cool tactile switch keyboards like the Happy Hacking Keyboard. Yet, before you jump into the Topre switches, it’s worth getting to know what a tactile keyboard really is as this journey is a whole new ballgame compared to your standard switches.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth typing with a satisfying "thonk" sound
  • Customizable actuation forces
  • Durable and long-lasting design
  • Typically more expensive than regular switches
  • Limited availability compared to others
  • May not appeal to everyone’s taste

Outemu Brown Switches - Super Budget Tactile Switch

Brand Outemu
Actuation Type Tactile
Actuation Force 45g
Travel Distance 4mm
Price $0.55
Outemu brown switches
Outemu brown switches

Outemu, though not a leading tactile switch brand, strives to compete as the mechanical switch market expands. Their Outemu Brown, a Cherry MX Brown clone like Gateron Brown, offers a cost-effective alternative but guarantee high-quality efficiency with slightly choppy feedback and sounds more like a "tick" than a "thock”.

The lifespan might not get you very far, and the switches should feel different from switch to switch. Build quality may occasionally vary, but it's a budget-friendly option worth considering among major brands like Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh when choosing tactile switches.

Pros Cons
  • Relatively Affordable
  • Variety with many different colors
  • Fast response time and tactile feedback
  • High-quality efficiency
  • Feel somewhat rattly and shaky
  • Lack of durability

You can read more about this topic in our article Linear vs Tactile vs Clicky Switches: An In-Depth Comparison

Conclusion

The tactile switches are really unique and amazing in their own way, don't you think?

Each of the best tactile mechanical switches listed above provides a wonderful tactile experience with a pleasing bump without being overly loud or rattling when the key is pressed. Along with that, many other benefits will truly help you boost your typing and gaming experience.

Be sure to read our post before making the purchase if you're set on buying a set of the best tactile switches for your new mechanical keyboard.

FAQs

What is the best tactile switch?

Tactile Switches are small switches that are perceptible to a user’s touch. The key aim of tactile switches is to create a tactile bump and an audible click sound that is fairly quiet with each key press.

What is the Best Tactile Switch for Gaming?

Some popular choices include Glorious Panda, Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Brown, Outemu Brown, Kailh Cream Speed Pro, and Durock T1. Factors like less actuation force and shorter travel distance are important, the ideal switch depends on your gaming style and typing comfort, so try them out to find your favorite.

What is the Best Tactile Switch for Typing?

Notable options include Cherry MX Brown for light actuation and subtlety, Zealios V2 for a pronounced tactile bump, Kailh Cream Speed or Copper switches for durability, Topre switches for a unique soft feel, and Akko CS Lavender Purples for the best budget.

What is the Best Thocky Tactile Switch?

A "thocky switch" is a term used to describe switches that produce a highly satisfying typing sound. Among the top tactile switches renowned for their enjoyable thocky sound is the Gazzew Boba U4t Thocky - often considered the Thocciest.

What is the Smoothest Tactile Switch?

If you're seeking the smoothest tactile switches for a seamless typing experience, consider the following options: Gateron Brown, Cherry MX Brown, Kailh Speed Copper, Cherry MX Clear. These switches are known for their smooth keypresses and satisfying tactile feedback, making them excellent choices for typists who prioritize typing comfort.

What is the Best Budget Tactile Switch? 

The Akko CS Lavender Purple is a newer budget tactile switch that has quickly become a popular option. It offers a slightly lighter tactile bump than the Gateron Brown, but it is still very tactile. It is also known for its smooth operation and affordable price.