Top 5 Budget Mechanical Keyboard Switches for Beginners

Starting your journey into the world of mechanical keyboards can be daunting, especially with the wide range of switches available. If you're on a budget, you don't have to compromise on quality. This guide will introduce you to the top 5 budget-friendly mechanical keyboard switches for beginners.

Why Choose Budget Switches?

Budget switches provide an affordable entry point into the world of mechanical keyboards. They offer great value for money and are often used in pre-built keyboards. While they may not have the premium feel of higher-end switches, they still provide a satisfying typing experience.

1. Gateron Red

Overview:

• Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 45g
• Travel Distance: 2mm (actuation), 4mm (total)
• Sound Level: Quiet

Gateron Red switches are a popular choice for those new to mechanical keyboards. They offer a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, making them ideal for gaming. These switches are also known for being smoother than their Cherry MX counterparts.

Pros:

• Smooth keystroke
• Affordable and widely available
• Ideal for gaming

Cons:

• Lack of tactile feedback may not suit typists

2. Outemu Brown

Overview:

• Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 55g
• Travel Distance: 2mm (actuation), 4mm (total)
• Sound Level: Quiet

Outemu Brown switches are perfect for those who want tactile feedback without the loud click. They provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, helping with typing accuracy. These switches are commonly found in budget pre-built keyboards.

Pros:

• Tactile feedback for improved typing accuracy
• Affordable and easy to find
• Quiet enough for office use

Cons:

• Slightly scratchy feel compared to higher-end tactile switches

3. Kailh Box White

Overview:

• Type: Clicky
• Actuation Force: 50g
• Travel Distance: 1.8mm (actuation), 3.6mm (total)
• Sound Level: Loud

Kailh Box White switches are a budget-friendly clicky option that offers a crisp and tactile typing experience. They are slightly lighter than other clicky switches, making them more comfortable for extended typing sessions.

Pros:

• Crisp click sound and tactile feedback
• Durable construction
• Affordable for a clicky switch

Cons:

• Loud sound may not be suitable for shared spaces

4. Akko CS Jelly Black

Overview:

• Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 45g
• Travel Distance: 1.8mm (actuation), 4mm (total)
• Sound Level: Quiet

Akko CS Jelly Black switches are known for their smoothness and affordability. They offer a slightly heavier feel than Gateron Reds, making them great for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.

Pros:

• Smooth keystroke
• Affordable and well-built
• Good for both gaming and typing

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than typical linear switches

5. Gazzew Boba U4

Overview:

• Type: Silent Tactile
• Actuation Force: 62g
• Travel Distance: 2mm (actuation), 4mm (total)
• Sound Level: Very Quiet

The Gazzew Boba U4 switches are an excellent choice for those who want silent tactile feedback. They offer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, making them ideal for quiet environments.

Pros:

• Silent operation with tactile feedback
• Smooth and high-quality construction
• Great for office use

Cons:

• Heavier actuation force may not be suitable for everyone

Final Thoughts

Starting with a budget mechanical keyboard switch doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality. The switches listed above provide a range of options for different typing styles and preferences, all at an affordable price point. Experiment with these to find the best fit for your needs.