15 Best Linear Switches for Gaming in 2023

As a gamer, you know that having the right keyboard can make all the difference in your gaming experience. And while there are a lot of different types of switches out there, linear switches are often considered to be the best for gaming. But with so many different linear switches on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?

Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll be taking a look at 15 of the best linear switches for gaming in 2023. We'll break down what makes each switch unique and what it's best suited for, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. So whether you're looking for something fast and responsive or something that won't break the bank, we've got you covered. Let's get started!

What are linear switches and why are they good for gaming?

Linear switches are becoming increasingly popular for competitive gaming. The cherry MX brown and novelkeys cream switches are two excellent choices for linear switches. The cherry mx switches provide a smooth and fast key press with minimal resistance, making them an amazing option for the avid gamer. For those looking for less force when pressing each key, cherry mx blue and gateron ink blacks might be the best switches to choose. Each of these options offer great performance that makes gaming a more enjoyable experience and can give an edge in competitive play. Linear switches are definitely a great - if not the best - option for any type of gaming!

With 2024 just around the corner, gamers are on the lookout for the best linear switches to outfit their gaming keyboards. Many cherry mx speed silver switches are considered to be a great choice as they offer rapid actuation and smooth keystrokes. Hot-swappable keyboards give gamers the ability to easily switch out their linear switches with different colors or styles without any hassle. Silent reds are also popular amongst gamers because of how quiet they operate. If you opt for a more traditional route, then looking into mechanical keyboards with either cherry mx blue or cherry mx brown clicky switches should be your best bet. If you're looking for something truly custom, try finding some switch films to layer over top of your linear switch which will give a unique look and feel!

How to choose the right linear switch for your needs

Collecting key switches for keyboards can be a tricky process - it's important to choose the right one depending on what you need. Gateron switches are a great option if you're looking for quieter keystrokes, while Outemu Reds are good for gaming keyboards that require faster actions and louder noises. Ultimately, you'll want to research different types of key switches available to find the best option that suits your specific needs. Ask yourself if you need a tactility, speed, or quiet key switch, as these factors all play into finding the perfect key switch for your keyboard. With this information in hand, you should have no problem choosing the key switch that will bring out the best in your gaming keyboard.

Tips for using linear switches in gaming

If you're a gamer looking for the best keyboard experience, linear switches are the way to go. Linear switches allow loud noises while gaming, as they have no resistance on their keystrokes like the popular outemu red version of a linear switch. While linear switches come in several different types, one of the most important features is the bottom housing. This prevents loud clattering noises that can frequently happen with rubber dome keyboards. Additionally, another benefit of using linear switches is that every keystroke has a distinct small bump when it's pressed, unlike normal rubber dome keyboards. In conclusion, using linear switches provides unique loud noises and small bumps on each keystroke that other switch types don't offer gamers.

A linear switch is a great choice for gaming because it provides a smooth, consistent keypress with no added resistance. There are many different types of linear switches available on the market, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase. Once you have your new linear switches installed, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of them. First, make sure your keys are properly spaced and positioned for comfortable use. Second, take some time to adjust the sensitivity and actuation point to suit your personal preferences. With these tips in mind, you're ready to start enjoying smoother, faster gameplay with your new linear switches!

1. Cherry MX Red:

Cherry MX Red is one of the most popular linear switches for gaming. It is a lightweight switch, with an activation force of 45g and a total travel distance of 4mm. This makes it fast and responsive, perfect for gamers who value speed and accuracy in their gaming experience. The low actuation force also results in less fatigue during long gaming sessions. In addition, Cherry MX Red switches are perfect for double-tapping as they require minimal effort to activate.

Cherry MX Red specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 2mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

2. Kailh Speed Silver:

Kailh Speed Silver is another popular linear switch choice among gamers. This switch provides a light actuation force of 40g, making it very easy to press quickly and accurately. Kailh Speed Silver switches have a total travel distance of 3.5mm which allows them to be very responsive. This makes them great for gaming genres that require quick reactions, such as first-person shooters.

Kailh Speed Silver specifications:

• 35g actuation force

• 1.1mm pre-travel distance

• 3.6mm total travel distance

3. Razer Orange:

These low-profile switches feature an ultra-fast actuation speed and a light actuation force that make them great for gaming. They also have a tactile bump, which can help you feel when the key is pressed.Razer Orange tactile switches are the most popular tactile switch for gaming. They offer a tactile bump, with an actuation force of 45g, and provide a tactile feel without being overly loud. The tactile feedback is subtle but noticeable, allowing gamers to accurately control the speed of their actions.

On the other hand, clicky switches are louder than tactile switches, but they offer increased tactile feedback in addition to audible feedback while pressing down on the key. Clicky switches have a higher actuation force at 50g and may require more effort to press down on keycaps. Although this type of switch has become less popular for PC gaming applications due to its loudness and high actuation force, many prefer it for typing as it offers greater tactile feedback than tactile switches.

Ultimately, tactile switches and clicky switches each offer unique advantages, so the decision of which switch type to use is largely a matter of personal preference. Some gamers prefer tactile switches for their quietness and light actuation force while others may opt for clicky switches due to the increased tactile feedback they provide. In the end, it all comes down to finding what works best for you!

Razer Orange specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 1.9mm pre-travel distance

• 3.5mm total travel distance

4. Gateron Clear:

These switches feature a light actuation force and smooth operation that make them perfect for gaming. They also require minimal pressure to activate, so they won’t tire your fingers out during long gaming sessions.

Gateron Clear specifications:

• 35g actuation force

• 2mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

5. Logitech GX Linear:

These linear switches feature a low-profile design and light actuation force that make them ideal for gaming. They’re also incredibly responsive and require minimal pressure to activate, making them great for precision gaming.

Logitech GX Linear specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 2mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

6. Kailh Box White:

These low-profile switches are great for gamers because they have an extra tactile bump, which can help you feel when the key is pressed. They also feature a light actuation force and quiet operation, so they won’t be too loud during gaming sessions.

Kailh Box White specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 1.2mm pre-travel distance

• 3.6mm total travel distance

7. Gateron Black:

Gateron Red is another lightweight linear switch with an actuation force of 45g and a total travel distance of 4mm. These switches are slightly lighter than Cherry MX Red switches and provide a smooth press. The low actuation force reduces fatigue during long gaming sessions, making it ideal for gamers who play for extended periods of time. Gateron Reds also have the added benefit of being more affordable than Cherry MX Reds, making them a great budget option for those looking to upgrade their gaming set up on a budget.

Gateron Black specifications:

• 60g actuation force

• 2.4mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

8. Zebronics Linear Red:

These low-profile switches have a light actuation force and smooth operation that make them perfect for gaming. They also require minimal pressure to activate, so they won’t tire your fingers out during long gaming sessions.

Zebronics Linear Red specifications:

• 35g actuation force

• 2mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

9. Outemu Silent Black:

These linear switches are great for gamers because they have an extra tactile bump, which can help you feel when the key is pressed. They also feature a light actuation force and quiet operation, so they won’t be too loud during gaming sessions.

Outemu Silent Black specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 1.2mm pre-travel distance

• 3.6mm total travel distance

10. Kailh Box Navy:

These linear switches are perfect for gamers because they have a light actuation force and long throw, which makes them great for precision gaming. They’re also incredibly durable and can handle multiple million keystrokes without any performance degradation.

Kailh Box Navy specifications:

• 55g actuation force

• 2.1mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

11. Logitech GX Blue:

These low-profile switches are great for gaming because they feature an ultra-fast actuation speed and light actuation force. They also require minimal pressure to activate, so they won’t tire your fingers out during long gaming sessions.

Logitech GX Blue specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 1.9mm pre-travel distance

• 3.5mm total travel distance

12. Outemu Silent Red:

These linear switches feature a low-profile design and light actuation force that make them ideal for gaming. They’re also incredibly responsive and require minimal pressure to activate, making them great for precision gaming.

Outemu Silent Red specifications:

• 35g actuation force

• 2mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

13. Logitech GX Brown:

These linear switches are perfect for gaming because they have a light actuation force and long throw, which makes them great for precision gaming. They’re also incredibly durable and can handle multiple million keystrokes without any performance degradation.

Logitech GX Brown specifications:

• 50g actuation force

• 2.1mm pre-travel distance

• 4mm total travel distance

14. Outemu Silent Blue:

These low-profile switches are great for gamers because they feature an ultra-fast actuation speed and light actuation force. They also require minimal pressure to activate, so they won’t tire your fingers out during long gaming sessions.

Outemu Silent Blue specifications:

• 45g actuation force

• 1.9mm pre-travel distance

• 3.5mm total travel distance

15. Logitech GX Red:

These linear switches are perfect for gamers who prefer a light touch and fast response time. They have a low activation force that won’t tire your fingers out, as well as minimal pre-travel distance and quiet operation.

Logitech GX Red specifications:

• 35g actuation force

• 1.2mm pre-travel distance

• 3.6mm total travel distance

These are the top 15 linear switches for gaming in 2023. Whether you’re a professional esports player or a casual gamer, these switches can provide you with reliable performance and minimal degradation. Whatever your preferences may be, there’s sure to be a switch that suits your needs perfectly.

Happy gaming!