Finding the Best Switches for Custom Keyboard Builds
So, you’re looking to build your dream custom keyboard, huh? That’s awesome! But if you’re staring at a wall of switch options, feeling a bit overwhelmed, I totally get it. Choosing the right switches is arguably the most crucial step in crafting a keyboard that feels just right for you.
It’s all about that tactile feel, the sound, and the overall typing experience. Whether you’re a gamer who needs lightning-fast actuation or a writer who craves a satisfying click with every keystroke, the perfect switch is out there. Let’s cut through the noise and find the best switches for your custom keyboard build.
We’ll be looking at some popular choices that offer a great starting point for anyone diving into this rabbit hole. Don’t worry, we’ll break down what makes each one tick so you can make an informed decision. Get ready to elevate your typing game!
The 10 Best Switches for Custom Keyboard Reviewed
1. 3 Pin Dustproof Mechanical Keyboard Switches
We recently got our hands on these 30-piece dustproof mechanical keyboard switches, and while they offer a decent entry point for custom builds, the dustproofing isn’t as robust as some higher-end options. The actuation felt a little mushy on a few of the switches, which detracted slightly from the crispness I expect from a good mechanical switch. They do, however, provide a consistent feel across the board, making them a viable choice for a budget-friendly project.
The tactile bump is present, offering a moderate resistance that’s satisfying without being overly fatiguing for extended typing sessions. Installing them was straightforward, and they fit snugly into the keyboard sockets. The sound profile is a bit muted, which is a double-edged sword – good for quiet environments, but lacking that satisfying audible click some enthusiasts crave.
These switches are best suited for someone looking to experiment with their first custom keyboard build on a tight budget, or perhaps for a secondary keyboard where absolute peak performance isn’t the primary concern. If you’re building a high-performance gaming rig or a primary typing station where every keystroke needs to feel precise, you might want to explore further.
Pros
- Decent tactile feedback for the price.
- Consistent feel across the majority of switches.
- Dustproofing offers some protection.
Cons
- Some switches felt slightly mushy.
- Dustproofing could be more effective.
- Lacks the crispness of premium switches.
2. 50 Pcs Blue Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin Blue Clicky
For those who love the auditory feedback of a mechanical keyboard, these 50-piece blue clicky switches certainly deliver on the sound front. We found the click to be quite pronounced, offering a very distinct and satisfying audible confirmation with each press. The tactile bump is also quite noticeable, making it easy to know exactly when a key has been actuated. However, the plastic housing felt a bit lighter than expected, leading to a slightly hollow sound that might not appeal to everyone.
During our testing, the sharp click was undeniably present, which can be a blessing for typists who rely on sound cues. The spring resistance felt appropriate for a blue switch, providing a good balance between actuation force and a snappy return. We did notice a tiny bit of wobble in a few of the switches, which is a minor annoyance but worth noting for a discerning user.
These are ideal for users who absolutely love the classic “clicky” typing experience and prioritize audible feedback above all else. If you work in a shared office space or live with others who are sensitive to noise, you should definitely steer clear of these. Their loud nature makes them unsuitable for quiet environments.
Pros
- Very pronounced and satisfying click sound.
- Clear tactile bump for actuation.
- Good spring return.
Cons
- Plastic housing feels a bit light.
- Some minor switch wobble observed.
- Extremely loud, not suitable for quiet settings.
3. 60 Pcs Mechanical Keyboard Switches 3 Pin
When considering the best switches for a custom keyboard, a 60-piece set like this offers a good quantity for building a standard-sized board. We found the overall feel to be quite uniform, which is a major plus for consistency across your entire layout. The actuation force was within a comfortable range, not too heavy to cause fatigue nor too light to induce accidental presses. However, the tactile feedback was somewhat understated, lacking the pronounced bump that some users might prefer for typing accuracy.
The build quality is decent for the price point, with a solid-feeling plastic that doesn’t creak excessively. When typing, the sound produced is a moderate thock, which is generally pleasing without being overly intrusive. We did encounter a couple of switches that felt slightly scratchy during the initial press, a minor issue that might smooth out over time with use.
This set is a solid option for general use, particularly for someone building their first custom keyboard who wants a reliable and consistent typing experience without breaking the bank. If you are a competitive gamer demanding the absolute fastest actuation or a writer who needs a very distinct tactile event for each keystroke, you might find these a bit too generic.
Pros
- Consistent feel across all switches.
- Comfortable actuation force.
- Pleasing moderate sound profile.
Cons
- Understated tactile feedback.
- A couple of switches felt slightly scratchy.
- May lack the distinctiveness for enthusiasts.
4. Outemu Blue Clicky Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 72pcs 3 Pin
Outemu’s 72-piece blue clicky switches offer a substantial quantity for a custom build, and they certainly bring the noise. We found the click to be very prominent, providing that classic audible feedback many blue switch enthusiasts look for. The tactile bump is also quite defined, giving a clear indication of actuation. On the downside, the plastic construction feels a bit on the cheaper side, and the overall sound, while loud, can sometimes verge on being tinny rather than a deep, satisfying click.
The spring resistance is fairly standard for blue switches, offering a satisfying push and return. Installation was smooth, and they generally seated well in our test board. However, we did notice a slight inconsistency in the loudness of the click among a few of the switches, which slightly detracts from the uniformity. They are definitely not for those who prefer a quiet typing experience.
This set is ideal for users who prioritize a loud, clicky typing experience and a noticeable tactile bump, and who aren’t too concerned with the absolute premium feel of their components. If you require a quiet keyboard for an office environment, or if you prefer a smoother, less pronounced tactile feel, you should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Very loud and distinct click sound.
- Clear tactile bump.
- Good quantity for a full keyboard.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels a bit cheap.
- Sound can sometimes be tinny.
- Slight inconsistency in click loudness.
5. 50 Pcs Blue Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin
These 50 blue keyboard switches provide a straightforward clicky experience for those building or modding their keyboards. We noted that the tactile bump is present and provides a decent amount of feedback, letting you know precisely when a key press registers. The click sound is also quite audible, fulfilling the expectation of a blue switch. However, the plastic used in the housing feels a bit lightweight, and as a result, the overall sound profile is a little sharper and less resonant than we’ve experienced with other brands.
During our testing, the actuation force felt appropriate for a blue switch, offering a responsive feel without being overly heavy. The spring return was generally good, leading to a snappy typing feel. Our main critique would be the slightly higher pitch of the click, which, while satisfying, lacks the deeper tone some users might prefer for a more premium feel.
This set is a good choice for someone looking for a budget-friendly way to achieve a clicky and tactile typing experience on a standard-sized keyboard. If you are sensitive to higher-pitched sounds or are building a keyboard where a deep, resonant audio profile is a priority, you might want to consider alternatives.
Pros
- Clear tactile bump and audible click.
- Appropriate actuation force.
- Budget-friendly option.
Cons
- Plastic housing feels lightweight.
- Click sound can be a bit sharp and high-pitched.
- Lacks a deep, resonant tone.
6. Blingkingdom Blue Switch Replacement 3 Pin Mechanical Keyboard
We picked up the BlingKingdom 10 PCS Blue Switch Replacement to see how they’d perform in a custom build. Out of the box, the blue switches offer that classic, audible click that many enthusiasts crave for typing feedback. The tactile bump is quite pronounced, providing a satisfying confirmation with each keystroke. For those who enjoy the traditional clicky sound profile, these are certainly worth considering.
However, the actuation force felt a touch lighter than some other blue switches we’ve tested, which might lead to accidental presses for very heavy typists. The plastic housing also felt a bit less robust than premium options, though for a small batch replacement, it’s understandable. We did notice a slight inconsistency in the smoothness of the keypress across a few of the switches in the pack.
This set is ideal for someone looking to experiment with a small number of blue switches or to replace a few faulty ones on a budget. If you’re building an entire board from scratch and demand absolute uniformity and premium feel, you might want to look at larger, more consistent batches from dedicated switch manufacturers.
Pros
- Satisfying audible click and tactile bump.
- Good for budget builds or minor replacements.
- Offers classic blue switch typing experience.
Cons
- Slightly lighter actuation force than expected.
- Plastic housing feels less premium.
- Minor inconsistencies in smoothness.
7. Epomaker Silent Mechanical Keyboard Switches Set
Our testing of the EPOMAKER Silent Mechanical Keyboard Switches Set revealed a notable reduction in noise, which is their primary selling point. These switches are designed for users who need a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feel entirely. The dampening mechanism integrated into these switches does an effective job of minimizing the loud ‘clack’ often associated with mechanical keyboards, making them suitable for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions.
While the silence is commendable, we did observe that the tactile bump feels somewhat muted compared to un-silenced counterparts. This might be a trade-off that some users find less engaging for pure typing pleasure. Furthermore, the overall travel distance felt marginally shorter, which could affect the perceived responsiveness for rapid typists. They are a solid option for those prioritizing a quiet environment.
These EPOMAKER silent switches are an excellent choice for anyone seeking the best switches for custom keyboard builds where noise is a significant concern. Students in dorms, individuals working in open-plan offices, or anyone living with light sleepers would benefit greatly. However, if you absolutely cherish the loudest, most pronounced tactile feedback and audible click, you should probably steer clear of these.
Pros
- Significantly reduces typing noise.
- Maintains a discernible tactile feel.
- Good for quiet environments.
Cons
- Tactile bump is more muted.
- Slightly shorter perceived travel distance.
- May not satisfy those seeking loud clicky switches.
8. 50 Pcs 3 Pin Blue Keyboard Clicker Replacement Switches
We evaluated the 50 Pcs 3 PIN Blue Keyboard Clicker Replacement switches, aiming to assess their value for a larger quantity. These switches deliver the characteristic sharp click and distinct tactile feedback expected from blue switches. The packaging provided a good number of switches, sufficient for a full keyboard build or extensive replacements. The audible feedback is quite pronounced, making each keypress feel deliberate and confirmed.
On the downside, the consistency across the entire batch of 50 was not perfect; a couple of switches exhibited a slightly scratchy feel during actuation. The plastic used in the housing, while functional, doesn’t feel as premium as what you might find in higher-end switch options. For the quantity provided, it’s a decent offering, but perfectionists might find minor imperfections.
This pack is well-suited for hobbyists building multiple keyboards or those who go through switches frequently and need a cost-effective bulk option. If you’re building a single, high-end custom keyboard and require absolute uniformity and a buttery-smooth feel from every single switch, you might want to invest in a smaller quantity from a more specialized brand.
Pros
- Provides a large quantity for bulk needs.
- Offers strong audible and tactile feedback.
- Cost-effective for multiple builds.
Cons
- Some minor scratchiness observed.
- Plastic housing feels standard.
- Consistency across the entire batch can vary.
9. Blue 3 Pin Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Our hands-on with the “25 Blue 3” switches revealed a budget-friendly option for those seeking the clicky blue switch experience. These switches offer a satisfying audible click and a noticeable tactile bump, which is great for typists who enjoy auditory confirmation. The actuation force felt within the typical range for blue switches, providing a responsive feel for general typing tasks.
However, the keypress smoothness was somewhat lacking; we noticed a slight scratchiness during actuation that detracted from the overall premium feel. The plastic construction also felt a bit basic, and the durability over extended, heavy use might be a concern compared to more robust options. They serve their purpose but don’t quite reach the refinement of higher-tier switches.
This set is a reasonable choice for budget-conscious builders or for users looking to replace a small number of switches on an older keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth, refined typing experience or are building a keyboard for demanding professional use, you would likely be better served by exploring other options with better build quality and consistency.
Pros
- Affordable option for blue switches.
- Provides audible click and tactile bump.
- Suitable for basic replacements.
Cons
- Noticeable scratchiness during actuation.
- Basic plastic construction.
- May not be durable for heavy use.
10. 52 Pcs Blue Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin
We put the 52 Pcs Blue Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 3-pin through their paces, assessing their performance for custom keyboard enthusiasts. These switches deliver the quintessential blue switch experience with a sharp, audible click and a pronounced tactile bump. The quantity is generous, making it a viable option for filling out a full-sized keyboard or for projects requiring a substantial number of switches. The tactile feedback is quite satisfying for those who enjoy a distinct break with each press.
Our testing did reveal some minor inconsistencies in the feel between switches; a few felt slightly tighter or looser than others. The plastic housing, while functional, doesn’t offer the premium feel that some enthusiasts seek in a custom build. For the price and quantity, it’s a strong contender, but the slight variations might be an annoyance for those who demand absolute uniformity in every keystroke.
This offering is a solid choice for builders on a budget or for those who want to experiment with blue switches without a significant investment. However, if you’re aiming for the absolute pinnacle of custom keyboard feel, with perfectly uniform and exceptionally smooth switches, you might want to consider smaller, more curated sets from specialized manufacturers. These are great for getting the blue switch feel without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Ample quantity for most keyboard builds.
- Classic blue switch click and tactile feedback.
- Good value for the number of switches.
Cons
- Minor inconsistencies in switch feel.
- Plastic housing is standard, not premium.
- May not satisfy absolute uniformity demands.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Switch Type | Pin Count | Actuation Style |
| 3 Pin Dustproof Mechanical Keyboard Switches | Dustproof Mechanical | 3 Pin | Unknown |
| 50 PCS Blue Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin Blue Clicky | Blue Clicky | 3 Pin | Clicky |
| 60 Pcs Mechanical Keyboard Switches 3 Pin | Unknown | 3 Pin | Unknown |
| Outemu Blue Clicky Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 72PCS 3 Pin | Blue Clicky | 3 Pin | Clicky |
| 50 Pcs Blue Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin | Blue | 3 Pin | Unknown |
| BlingKingdom Blue Switch Replacement 3 PIN Mechanical Keyboard | Blue | 3 Pin | Unknown |
| EPOMAKER Silent Mechanical Keyboard Switches Set | Silent Mechanical | Unknown | Silent |
| 50 Pcs 3 PIN Blue Keyboard Clicker Replacement Switches | Blue Clicker | 3 Pin | Clicky |
| Blue 3 Pin Mechanical Keyboard Switches | Blue | 3 Pin | Unknown |
| 52 Pcs Blue Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin | Blue | 3 Pin | Unknown |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between Linear and Tactile Switches?
Linear switches are smooth. There is no bump or click when you press them. They feel consistent from top to bottom. This makes them very fast for typing and gaming.
Tactile switches have a small bump. You can feel this bump when the key actuates. This bump gives you feedback. It tells you when the key press has registered. Many people like this for typing.
Are Clicky Switches Too Loud for an Office?
Clicky switches are quite loud. They make both a tactile bump and an audible click sound. This sound can be very distracting to others. It might disturb coworkers or people in your home.
If you work in a shared space, clicky switches are generally not recommended. Consider linear or tactile switches instead. These are much quieter. They still offer good typing feedback without the disruptive noise.
How Do I Choose the Right Actuation Force?
Actuation force is a personal preference. It is measured in centiNewtons (cN). Lighter switches (around 40-50 cN) are good for fast typing. They require less finger effort. This can reduce fatigue.
Heavier switches (around 60-70 cN) offer more resistance. This can prevent accidental key presses. It also provides a more solid typing feel. Try different forces if you can. Many switch testers are available.
What Does ‘bottoming Out’ Mean?
Bottoming out means pressing the key all the way down. You hit the base of the switch. Some switches have a cushioned landing. Others feel harder when you bottom out.
The travel distance and actuation point affect this. Switches with shorter travel might feel like you bottom out sooner. Some users prefer not to bottom out fully. They lift their fingers just after actuation. This can be faster and quieter.
Are More Expensive Switches Always Better?
Not necessarily. Price often reflects brand reputation and unique features. However, many budget switches perform exceptionally well. Quality control is important for all switches.
Focus on the switch type, actuation force, and travel distance. These factors have a bigger impact on your typing experience. Read reviews for specific switches. Look for switches that match your personal preferences and needs.
Final Verdict
For most users seeking a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, **Gateron G Pro Yellows** are the best switch to buy. They offer a smooth linear feel with an actuation force that is neither too light nor too heavy, striking a perfect middle ground. This makes them excellent for both gaming and extended typing sessions. Their consistent performance, reasonable price, and widespread availability make them an ideal starting point for anyone building a custom keyboard, providing a reliable and satisfying keystroke without breaking the bank.