Ever been bothered by incessant typing errors? The solution might be simpler than you think – a switch to the finest tactile mechanical switches for your keyboard. But with a plethora of choices out there, how do you pinpoint the best tactile switches?
To guide your journey towards impeccable typing, we've curated a list of the leading tactile switches that are turning heads this year. Dive in!
A key switch known as a tactile switch generates a bump or resistance whenever pressed.
These switches are intended to be audible, yet not so loud as to disrupt the environment around you. In fact, their sound can be very gratifying and give you a good level of pleasure.
In addition, they are generally used to enhance your typing performance and experience, which can greatly aid in encouraging accuracy when typing. For those who are new to keyboarding, getting the best tactile switches would be a fantastic choice.
If you are interested in other switches, we’ve put together everything about switch types in this Introduction to Mechanical Keyboard Switches and this type of switch comparison.
Tactile switches are ideal for beginners who are just dipping their toes into the world of mechanical keyboards. Without any clickety-clack sound like clicky switches, you will feel really nice to use the best tactile switches in workplaces.
Moreover, the tactile switches are also renowned for giving excellent feedback. The slight bump you feel on tactile switches can be an excellent way to prevent careless typing errors. Every time pressing a key, you would receive feedback; you would discover that no keypresses are missed.
As a result, the best tactile switches also help you improve your accuracy and precision during typing. It is smoother to type effectively without making misclicks because of how they feel and sound when you use them.
As a bonus, depending on the kind of switch you choose, the amount of tactile bump supplied varies, allowing you to simply decide how much tactility you actually want.
When compared to normal key switches, the tactile switches have a high level of endurance and provide you with one of the most surprising experiences ever.
Overall, for someone purchasing a mechanical keyboard for the first time, we highly recommend going with the best tactile switches.
| Switches | Special Features | Award | Price |
| Akko CS Lavender Purples
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None | $9.99 for 45 pcs |
| Glorious Panda
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None | $24.99 for 36 pcs |
| Kailh Cream Speed Pro
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None | $20.00 for 25 pcs |
| Boba U4T Tactile
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None | $6.50 for 10pcs |
| Drop Halo Clear
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None | $19.00 for 35pcs |
| Durock T1
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None | $9.90 for 18 pcs |
| Cherry MX Brown
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None | $16.99 for 20 pcs |
| Zealios V2
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None | $8.25 for 10 pcs |
| Cherry MX Clear
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None | $15.59 for 30 pcs |
| Kailh Speed Copper
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None | $2.80 for 10 pcs |
| Gateron Brown
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Amazon’s Choice award for “brown switches” | $7.50 for 10 pcs |
| Zilent V2
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Deskthority Awards 2016 for “Best modern keyboard or company” | $12.95 for 10 pcs |
| Topre Tactile
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None | $39.99 for 10 pcs |
| Outemu Brown
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None | $9.99 for 20 pcs |
| Brand | Akko |
| Actuation Force | 50 ± 5g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.9 ± 0.3mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 ± 0.5mm |
| Price | $0.22 |
The Akko CS Lavender Purple switches are one of the Akko Custom Series (CS) with a 3-pin plate mounted, offering an affordable choice for DIY enthusiasts, providing a cost-effective option.
These switches deliver a satisfying tactile bump with a high bump at 0.5mm, making them ideal for typists and gamers. They operate quietly, minimize sound disruptions, and exhibit impressive durability with a lifespan of approximately 60 million keystrokes, ensuring long-lasting performance for users.
| Pros | Cons |
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| Brand | Glorious PC Gaming Race |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Travel Distance | 3.5mm |
| Price | 0.69 |
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 |
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| Brand | KAILH |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 1.6 ± 0.1mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0 ± 0.2mm |
| Price | $0.76 |
Kailh Cream Speed Pro switches offer a well-rounded mechanical switch experience. They provide a smooth and quiet typing or gaming experience with a lack of tactile bump, making them suitable for both gamers and typists. With a durability rating of 50 million keystrokes, these switches are built to last, ensuring long-term reliability.
Priced at around $0.70 per switch, they have gained popularity in a relatively short time, becoming a favored choice for those seeking a high-quality and versatile switch solution.
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Related Articles
| Brand | GAZZEW |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 62g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $0.65 |
One of the major players in the mechanical keyboard industry, Outemu, produces the Boba U4T switches designed by Gazzew. The best tactile switches from Outemu are currently all the rage, which makes them fairly elusive online.
Boba U4T comes with both clear and opaque (RGB) housings.
From the overall look, the switches would be one of the best options for a workplace thanks to their quiet bump.
However, the outcome will astound you if you add a film and lubrication to Gazzew Boba U4T switches. The switches' sound profile deepened significantly further. Indeed, lubricating them will take care of any high-pitched issues that may arise.
What is this brand's plus side? The lengthy stem that serves as the Boba U4bottom-out T's point is one of its distinguishing features. This results in a bottom that is broader, considerably more fulfilling, and thocky.
Additionally, due to the larger stem, the tactile bump is draggier and seems to last throughout the whole downstroke. The switch's entire build is excellent, with nearly no rattle and excellent stem tolerances.
The Gazzew Boba U4T keyboard switch will be the best tactile switch for you if you enjoy a long, well-rounded tactile bump. Or else, a switch with a smaller bump will serve you better.
| Pros | Cons |
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| Brand | Kaihua |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $0.41 |
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 |
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| Brand | JWK |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 67g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $1.29 |
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 |
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| Brand | Cherry MX |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 55g |
| Travel Distance | 2mm |
| Price | $0.96 |
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 |
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| 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)
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 |
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| Brand | Cherry MX |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 65g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $0.45 |
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.
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| Brand | Kailh |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 60g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $0.28 |
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 |
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| Brand | Gateron |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 55g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $0.70 |
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.
| Pros | Cons |
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Related Articles
| Brand | ZealPC |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 62g, 65g, 67g, and 78g |
| Price | $1.3 |
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.
| Pros | Cons |
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| Brand | Topre |
| Actuation Force | 30g, 35g, 45g, and 55g |
| Pre-travel Distance | 2.0mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4.0mm |
| Price | $3.90 |
Topre Tactile switches stand out for their supreme tactile bump, distinct from typical tactile switches due to their unique rubber dome design. This design not only mimics mechanical switch characteristics but also enhances them with a louder "thonk", crisper tactile feedback, better tactility, reduced noise and non-mushy bottom-out.
The switches are innovative in their approach, offering a fresh typing experience, especially on select keyboards like the Happy Hacking Keyboard. Understanding what a tactile keyboard is becomes essential before choosing a Topre switch, as it significantly differs from conventional options.
| Pros | Cons |
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| Brand | Outemu |
| Actuation Type | Tactile |
| Actuation Force | 45g |
| Travel Distance | 4mm |
| Price | $0.55 |
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.
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The choice of switches is crucial in defining your typing experience. We will provide a brief comparison of 3 popular switch types, helping you easily decide on your keyboard.
The choice between Tactile and Clicky switches depends on your personal preference and the environment in which you'll use your keyboard. Tactile switches offer a subtle tactile bump at the actuation point, enhancing typing accuracy, and are favored for quieter settings like offices.
In contrast, Clicky switches produce an audible "click" sound along with tactile feedback, which can be satisfying for some users but distracting in shared spaces. Your selection should align with your typing style and where you plan to use your keyboard.
Tactile switches offer tactile feedback with a distinct bump during keypress, making them favored by meticulous typists who appreciate the feedback. Meanwhile, Linear switches provide a smooth and uninterrupted keypress, ideal for gamers and those who desire a quieter typing experience.
The key differences lie in sound, typing experience, actuation force, and feedback. To make the right choice, consider your typing style, environment, and hand fatigue, as these factors will help you determine whether Tactile or Linear switches are the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
We've outlined the key characteristics of three common types of keyboard switches: Tactile, Clicky, and Linear. Provides valuable insights into the feedback them offer, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the right keyboard switch for your needs.
| Feature | Tactile | Clicky | Linear |
| Feedback | Tactile bumpy feedback | Robust tactile feedback | Smooth typing, no bumpy feedback |
| Noise | Clear tactile sound, low-to-loud sound | Clear ‘clicky’ sound,
normal-to-loud sound |
No ‘clicky’ sound, quiet-to-low sound |
| Uses | For typists and gamers | For writers and gamers | For office workers and library users |
| Environment | Diverse environment | Noise-tolerant environments | Quite office environments
Shared spaces |
You can read more about this topic in our article Linear vs Tactile vs Clicky Switches: An In-Depth Comparison
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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