Best Cherry Keyboard Switches: Find Your Perfect Click!

1. Blue Mechanical Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin Blue Clicky

We’ve tested countless blue switches, and this 50-piece pack offers a classic clicky experience that many enthusiasts still crave. The tactile bump is satisfyingly pronounced, providing clear feedback with every keystroke. For those who enjoy an audible confirmation of their typing, these deliver in spades.

However, the loudness of these switches is undeniable. While some appreciate the auditory feedback, it can be quite disruptive in shared workspaces or during late-night typing sessions. The 3-pin design also means they won’t be compatible with all hot-swappable PCBs without modification.

This pack is ideal for someone building a dedicated typing keyboard where sound is not a primary concern, or for those who specifically enjoy the loud, audible click. If you need quiet operation for an office environment, you should definitely look elsewhere.

2. Mx2a Rgb Silent Red Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches

The MX2A RGB Silent RED switches aim to provide a smoother, quieter typing experience while still offering that satisfying mechanical feel. We found the lubrication to be quite good out of the box, reducing friction and leading to a noticeably smoother actuation. The RGB lighting integration is also well-executed, allowing for vibrant per-key illumination.

While advertised as silent, there’s still a discernible thud when the switch bottoms out, which is more of a soft impact than a loud click. My main gripe is that the silent aspect might sacrifice some of the sharp tactile feedback that purists might prefer. It’s a trade-off for sure.

These are an excellent choice for anyone building a keyboard for a shared office or a home where noise is a concern. If you want the mechanical feel without disturbing others, and you appreciate customizable RGB lighting, these are a strong contender.

3. Blue Keyboard Switches, 3 Pin

This 50-piece pack of blue switches offers a familiar and satisfying clicky typing experience. The tactile feedback is distinct, making it easy to know when a keypress has registered. For those who enjoy the auditory confirmation and pronounced bump, these are a solid option for a budget build or a dedicated typing board.

However, the consistency across all 50 switches wasn’t perfect. I noticed a slight variation in the actuation force and clickiness on a few of them, which can be a minor annoyance for a discerning typist. The 3-pin design also means you’ll need to ensure your PCB supports them directly or consider desoldering if you want to use them on a more advanced board, making them less versatile when considering the best cherry keyboard switches.

This set is well-suited for someone looking to build a classic clicky mechanical keyboard on a budget, especially if they don’t mind the loud sound. If you’re building a quiet board or require hot-swappability with 5-pin switches, you should steer clear.

4. Red Switches 20 Pack, 3 Pin 45gf Linear/rgb/dustproof/rgb Key Switch

This 20-pack of red switches provides a smooth, linear typing experience with a relatively light actuation force of 45gf. We appreciated the dustproof design, which aims to keep debris out and potentially extend the lifespan of the switch. The RGB compatibility is also a plus for those who want to add some flair to their keyboard build.

The linear feel, while smooth, lacks any tactile bump or audible click, which might not appeal to everyone. For extended typing sessions, I sometimes found myself bottoming out harder than necessary due to the lack of feedback. The 3-pin configuration is also a limitation for certain hot-swappable PCBs, which is a recurring theme with these budget-friendly options.

These switches are a good fit for gamers or typists who prefer a consistent, unhindered keystroke and don’t require audible feedback. If you’re someone who enjoys the feel of a very light and smooth press, these are worth considering, but avoid them if you need tactile feedback or a clicky sound.

5. Red Switches, 3 Pin Key Switch

This 32-pack of red switches offers a straightforward linear typing experience. The actuation is smooth, and the 3-pin design is standard for many entry-level mechanical keyboards. We found the weight to be consistent across the switches, providing a reliable feel for typing and gaming alike.

However, the lack of any tactile feedback or audible click means these can feel a bit unengaging for prolonged typing sessions. I sometimes found myself unintentionally pressing keys due to the smooth travel. Furthermore, the 3-pin configuration will require users to confirm their PCB compatibility, which can be a hurdle if you’re looking for maximum flexibility.

This pack is best suited for those building a basic linear keyboard, perhaps for gaming, where a consistent, light press is preferred. If you’re looking for a tactile typing experience, or if you need 5-pin compatibility for a hot-swappable board, these are not the switches for you.

6. Cherry Mx Blue Mx1a

We’ve all heard the legend of the Cherry MX Blue, and testing the MX1A variant confirms its reputation for a satisfying tactile click. Each keystroke produces a distinct audible “snap” that’s incredibly rewarding for typists. The actuation force feels just right, offering enough resistance to prevent accidental presses without being fatiguing.

However, the very click that makes these switches so beloved can also be their downfall in shared environments. The sound, while pleasing to the user, can be quite disruptive to colleagues or family members. I found myself conscious of the noise even during casual typing sessions.

This switch is absolutely for the purist typist who relishes every single keystroke as a tactile and auditory event. Think of a novelist hunched over their manuscript in a quiet study, or a programmer who finds the rhythm of typing aids their concentration. The distinct feedback loop is a significant part of the experience.

It’s important to note who should steer clear: anyone working in an open-plan office or sharing a living space where quiet is a priority will likely find these switches a constant source of annoyance. Gamers who rely on rapid, silent inputs might also find the audible feedback distracting.

7. Mx2a Rgb Red Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches

When considering the best cherry keyboard switches, the MX2A RGB Red switches offer a noticeably smoother experience than some older generations. The linear travel is exceptionally fluid, and the actuation feels consistent across all 36 switches in the kit. I was impressed by the reduced friction, which leads to a very quiet operation.

The RGB lighting integration is also a highlight, with vibrant and uniform illumination diffusing beautifully through the keycaps. While these are excellent for a quiet setup, I did notice that the lack of tactile bump might make it slightly harder for some users to discern when a key has been actuated without looking.

This kit is ideal for gamers and individuals who prioritize a silent typing experience while still enjoying the premium feel of Cherry switches. The smooth, unhindered travel makes rapid key presses feel effortless, which is a significant advantage during intense gaming sessions. The subtle RGB adds a nice aesthetic touch without being overwhelming.

However, if you’re someone who relies heavily on tactile feedback to confirm every keystroke, you might find these a bit too smooth. Users who prefer the distinct ‘thock’ or ‘click’ of other switch types should probably look elsewhere.

8. Blue Switch Replacement 3 Pin Mechanical Keyboard Switches

This small pack of 10 Cherry MX Blue style switches offers a budget-friendly way to experiment with the classic clicky feel. The tactile feedback is present, and you do get that characteristic audible click with each press. For someone looking to replace a few worn-out switches or try out the blue switch experience without a full commitment, these are a decent option.

However, I must point out that the build quality here isn’t quite on par with genuine Cherry MX switches. The plastic housing felt a bit less robust, and the click sound, while present, was slightly less crisp and more rattly than I expected. It’s functional, but not premium.

This is a suitable choice for hobbyists looking to repair a specific set of keys on a mechanical keyboard or for those wanting to dip their toes into the world of clicky switches on a budget. If you have a keyboard with a few dead keys and want a quick, inexpensive fix that provides a tactile response, these will do the job.

Anyone expecting the refined feel and sound of high-end Cherry MX Blues should temper their expectations. These are functional replacements, not a premium upgrade, and they are definitely not for users who demand the absolute best in switch quality and acoustics.

9. Mx2a Rgb Blue Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches

The MX2A RGB Blue Switch Kit brings the beloved clicky sensation into a modern, illuminated package. We found the tactile feedback to be sharp and consistent, providing that satisfying “snap” that many users crave. The RGB backlighting integration is well-executed, allowing for vibrant and customizable lighting effects.

While the click is satisfying, it’s also quite loud, as expected with blue switches. In a quiet office or shared living space, this can quickly become a point of contention. I also noticed that the actuation force felt marginally higher than some other blue switches I’ve tested, requiring a slightly firmer press.

This kit is perfect for enthusiasts who want the definitive clicky experience with the added flair of customizable RGB lighting. If you spend a lot of time typing and find auditory and tactile confirmation essential for your workflow, and you don’t have noise constraints, these will be a joy. They also add a visual appeal with their lighting.

However, if you work in a shared environment or prefer a quieter typing experience, these are definitely not for you. Gamers who need silent, rapid inputs might also find the audible click distracting rather than helpful.

10. Mx Falcon Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches

The MX Falcon Switch Kit presents an interesting option for DIY keyboard builders, offering a unique feel that deviates from the standard Cherry MX offerings. We noted a distinct, slightly heavier tactile bump compared to typical blues, which provides a substantial feedback point. The kit includes 36 switches, providing enough for a standard keyboard build.

However, the “Falcon” designation doesn’t come with the same widespread recognition or readily available community support as the more established Cherry MX lines. I also found the lubrication on a few of the switches to be a bit inconsistent, leading to a slightly scratchy feel in isolated instances. This is something to watch out for in a DIY build.

This kit is specifically for the adventurous DIY keyboard builder who wants to experiment with less common switch types. If you enjoy the process of assembling your own keyboard and are looking for a switch that offers a pronounced tactile event, the MX Falcon could be an intriguing choice for your custom project.

Anyone seeking the familiar feel of classic Cherry MX switches, or those who prioritize plug-and-play simplicity without the need for potential lube adjustments, should probably pass on this kit. The DIY aspect and potential for minor inconsistencies mean it’s not for the faint of heart.