Mechanical switches are devices used to make, break, or change the direction of an electrical circuit using a physical actuator. These switches can be found in various applications, from everyday household items to complex industrial machines. The primary types of mechanical switches include toggle switches, which use a lever to open or close the circuit; push-button switches, designed to complete or interrupt a circuit when pressed; and rocker switches, which operate similarly to toggle switches but with a rocking mechanism. Rotary switches feature a rotating shaft to select different circuit paths. Slide switches move a slider from one position to another to open or close contacts, while DIP switches are small, manual switches commonly used on electronic circuit boards for configuration settings. Lastly, limit switches are used in machinery as part of a control system, often acting as safety devices to prevent over-travel or to indicate position limits. Each type serves a specific function based on its design, usability, and the requirements of the electrical system it is being used with.
Best Mechanical Keyboards of February 2025
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Rating is 5 out of 5
Corsair K70 RGB PRO Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Cherry MX RGB Red Switches: Linear and Fast, 8,000Hz Hyper-Polling, PBT Double-Shot PRO Keycaps, Soft-Touch Palm Rest) QWERTY, NA - Black
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The Legend Continues: The K70 RGB PRO retains the iconic elements of the award-winning K70 RGB with a durable aluminum frame, CHERRY MX mechanical keyswitches, and per-key RGB backlighting.
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Powered by CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing Technology: Enables a new level of K70 performance, processing and transmitting your inputs up to 8x faster than conventional gaming keyboards.
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100% CHERRY MX RGB Red Mechanical Keyswitches: Have a linear travel with a silky smooth keypress that's ideal for performance gamers, and are guaranteed for 100 million keystrokes.
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Polycarbonate Keycaps with Standard Bottom Row: Durable polycarbonate plastic keycaps with a standard bottom row layout that supports custom keycap sets.
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Rating is 4.9 out of 5
RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys
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Big Features on a Small Screen - Is there anything it can't display? Custom gif image, date. connection mode, WIN/MAC layout, battery status, etc.
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Knob Design- Adjust volume, connection mode, backlit brightness/speed, RGB mode/color, all it takes is just a twist or a click.
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BT5.0/2.4G/USB-C - Wireless keyboard with stable BT 5.0, hassle-free 2.4Ghz dongle plus USB-C wired mode set no limits about your keyboard connection.
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Gaming Friendly Top-Mount Design - Offers a superior tactile consistency, firm feeling, and better noice reducing creamy keyboard.
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Rating is 4.8 out of 5
AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard,75% Gasket Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard,RGB Backlit,Pre-lubed Reaper Switches,Side Printed PBT Keycaps,2.4GHz/USB-C/BT5.0 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
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Tri-mode Connection Keyboard: AULA F75 Pro wireless mechanical keyboards work with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless and USB wired connection, can connect up to five devices at the same time, and easily switch by shortcut keys or side button. F75 Pro computer keyboard is suitable for PC, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, PS, XBOX etc, to meet all the needs of users. In addition, the rechargeable keyboard is equipped with a 4000mAh large-capacity battery, which has long-lasting battery life
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Hot-swap Custom Keyboard: This custom mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable base supports 3-pin or 5-pin switches replacement. Even keyboard beginners can easily DIY there own keyboards without soldering issue. F75 Pro gaming keyboards equipped with pre-lubricated stabilizers and LEOBOG reaper switches, bring smooth typing feeling and pleasant creamy mechanical sound, provide fast response for exciting game
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Gasket Structure and PCB Single Key Slotting: This thocky heavy mechanical keyboard features a gasket structure, extended integrated silicone pad, and PCB single key slotting, better optimizes resilience and stability, making the hand feel softer and more elastic. Five layers of filling silencer fills the gap between the PCB, the positioning plate and the shaft,effectively counteracting the cavity noise sound of the shaft hitting the positioning plate, and providing a solid feel
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16.8 Million RGB Backlit: F75 Pro light up led keyboard features 16.8 million RGB lighting color. With 16 pre-set lighting effects to add a great atmosphere to the game. And supports 10 cool music rhythm lighting effects with driver. Lighting brightness and speed can be adjusted by the knob or the FN + key combination. You can select the single color effect as wish. And you can turn off the backlight if you do not need it
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
AULA F99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard,Tri-Mode BT5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard,Pre-lubed Linear Switches,Gasket Structure,RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard for PC/Tablet/PS/Xbox
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Multi-Device Connection: AULA F99 wireless mechanical keyboard provides three connection methods, including BT5.0, 2.4GHz wireless mode, and USB wired mode. It can be connected to up to five devices at the same time, and switch between them easily by FN and key combination keys. No limits about your keyboard connection to meet the needs of work, gaming, and study
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Hot-swappable Custom Keyboard: The switches and keycaps can be freely replaced(keycap/switch puller are included in the package).This customizable keyboard with hot-swap PCB allows users to replace 3 pins/5 pins switches easily without soldering issue. F99 mechanical keyboards equipped with pre-lubed linear switches, bring smooth typing feeling and pleasant typing sound, provide fast response for exciting game
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Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: F99 is a premium mechanical keyboard for both work and game. With 16 RGB lighting effect to adds a great atmosphere to the game room. All keys support macro customization, which allows macro recording and editing, customize key function and 16.8 million light colors, and supports cool music rhythm lighting effects with driver. N-key rollover, keyboard can respond to multiple key presses at the same time, which is helpful in very exciting real-time games
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Logitech K845 Mechanical Illuminated Keyboard, Strong Adjustable Tilt Legs, Full Size, Aluminum Top Case, 104 Keys, USB Corded, Windows (TTC Brown Switches)
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An adjustable 4-8 degree tilt and slim front lets you type at a comfortable angle.
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Choose between Red, Blue, or Brown switches for the right level of sound and tactile key feedback.
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White backlighting in 5 patterns lets you be productive your way — even in the dark.
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Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Backlit Keyboard with Tactile Mechanical Switches, Anti-Ghosting, Compatible with Windows, macOS - Black Aluminum
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Take your gaming skills to the next level: The Logitech G413 SE is a full-size keyboard with gaming-first features and the durability and performance necessary to compete
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PBT keycaps: Heat- and wear-resistant, this computer gaming keyboard features the most durable material used in keycap design
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Tactile mechanical switches: Uncompromising performance is always within reach with this wired gaming keyboard
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6-Key rollover anti-ghosting performance: Experience reliable key input with this anti-ghosting keyboard versus non-gaming mechanical keyboards
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FN key media controls: Twelve (12) function (FN) keys let you control volume, play and pause, skip track, mute, toggle lighting, Windows lock, etc
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Logitech G915 LIGHTSPEED RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Low Profile GL Clicky Key Switch, LIGHTSYNC RGB, Advanced LIGHTSPEED Wireless and Bluetooth Support - Clicky,Black
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LIGHTSPEED wireless delivers pro-grade performance with flexibility and freedom from cords. Creates a clean aesthetics for battlestations. Delivers 30 hours on a single full charge.
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LIGHTSYNC technology provides next-gen RGB lighting that synchronizes lighting with any content. Personalize each key or create custom animations from ~16.8M colors with Logitech G HUB software.
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Low Profile mechanical switches offers the speed, accuracy and performance of a mechanical switch at half the height. The GL Clicky switch features a distinctive sound and tactile feedback. Comes in 3 options: GL Tactile, GL Linear or GL Clicky.
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Beautifully crafted, the G915 uses aircraft-grade aluminum alloy to deliver incredibly thin but rigid and durable design.
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Enjoy 30 hours of game time on a single charge. Low battery warnings at 15 percent on the keyboard battery LED and via pop-up notification in the Logitech G HUB software. Quickly recharges in 3 hours.
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Rating is 4.3 out of 5
SteelSeries USB Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Per-Key RGB Illumination – Aircraft Grade Aluminum Alloy Frame – OLED Smart Display (Hybrid Blue Switch)
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Hybrid mechanical gaming switches – The tactile click of a blue mechanical switch plus a smooth membrane
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OLED smart display – Customize with gifs, game info, discord messages, and more. OS-Windows, Mac OS X, Xbox, and PlayStation. USB port required
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Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame – Manufactured for unbreakable durability and sturdiness
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Dynamic per-key RGB illumination – Gorgeous color schemes and reactive effects for every key
What is a silent mechanical switch?
A silent mechanical switch refers to a type of keyboard switch that is designed to produce minimal noise during operation while still providing the tactile feedback characteristic of mechanical switches. These switches are commonly used in environments where noise reduction is important, such as in offices or shared spaces.
Silent mechanical switches achieve noise reduction through various design features, such as:
- Dampening Materials: Some silent switches incorporate dampening materials, like rubber o-rings or additional cushioning, to reduce the sound of the switch bottoming out and returning to its resting position.
- Modified Stem Design: The switch stem can be redesigned to minimize the noise generated during key presses and releases. This is often done by incorporating features that prevent the stem from hitting the switch housing hard.
- Lubrication: Some silent switches are pre-lubricated to reduce friction and noise during operation.
Several manufacturers produce silent mechanical switches, with some popular examples being the Cherry MX Silent Red and Silent Black, as well as various switches from other brands like Gateron Silent and ZealPC Zilent switches. These switches are sought after by users who want the typing feel of mechanical keyboards without the loud clicky sounds.
What is the lifespan of a mechanical switch?
The lifespan of a mechanical switch can vary widely depending on its type, use case, and the manufacturer. Generally, mechanical keyboard switches are often rated for a lifespan of 20 to 100 million keystrokes. Higher-end switches, like those from reputable brands such as Cherry MX, may have lifespans on the upper end of that range.
However, it's important to consider the specific type of switch and its application:
- Keyboard Switches: Typically rated for 20 to 100 million actuations.
- Industrial or Heavy-Duty Switches: These are often designed for more rigorous applications and may have different specifications, but many are rated for millions of cycles.
- Mouse Switches: Mechanical switches in mice often last for a number of clicks similar to keyboard switches, sometimes up to 50 million clicks.
The actual lifespan in practice can be influenced by environmental factors (dust, humidity), electrical loads, usage frequency, and level of maintenance. Proper care and operation within the design specifications can help achieve or even exceed the rated lifespan.
How to replace a faulty mechanical switch?
Replacing a faulty mechanical switch involves several steps to ensure safety and proper installation. If you're not comfortable working with electrical components, it's always best to hire a professional electrician. However, if you feel confident in handling this task, here's a general guide:
Tools and Materials Needed:
- New mechanical switch
- Screwdriver (typically Phillips or flathead, depending on the screws)
- Voltage tester
- Wire stripper
- Electrical tape or wire connectors
Steps:
- Turn Off Power:
Go to your home's electrical panel and turn off the circuit breaker corresponding to the switch you’re replacing. This is crucial for safety.
- Test for Power:
Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off. Test the switch by touching the tester to the wires connected to the switch. If there’s no voltage detected, you can proceed.
- Remove the Old Switch:
Unscrew the switch plate cover and set it aside.
Unscrew the screws holding the switch to the electrical box.
Gently pull the switch out to expose the wires.
- Disconnect the Wires:
Notice how the wires are connected to the switch. Take a picture or make a note if necessary.
Loosen the terminal screws and detach the wires from the switch. If the wires are connected via push-in connectors, use a small screwdriver to release them.
- Prepare the Wires:
Inspect the wire ends for wear or damage. Use a wire stripper to strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends if needed.
- Connect the New Switch:
Attach the wires to the new switch. Typically, the black or colored (hot) wires go to the brass or dark-colored screws, and the white (neutral) wires, if present, connect to the silver screws. The green or bare copper wire is the ground and connects to the green screw.
Ensure all connections are tight and secure.
- Install the New Switch:
Carefully push the wires back into the electrical box.
Secure the new switch to the box with the mounting screws.
Reattach the switch cover plate.
- Turn the Power Back On:
Go back to the electrical panel and turn the circuit breaker back on.
Test the new switch to ensure it functions correctly.
- Finalize:
If everything is working properly, tidy up any tools and dispose of the old switch safely.
Safety Tips:
- Always double-check that the power is off before starting work.
- Consider labeling the circuit breaker after turning it off for better future reference.
- If at any point you're unsure of what to do, consult a professional.
Additional Considerations:
- If your switch is part of a complex electrical setup, such as a 3-way switch system (where one light is controlled by two switches), ensure you understand how these systems work before attempting replacement.
- Be aware of local electrical codes and regulations which may affect how work should be carried out.
Remember that working with electricity can be hazardous. If you have any doubts or questions, seeking help from a professional electrician can ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
