Best Kailh Switch Keyboards: Budget, Features & Performance

Have you ever heard the satisfying clickety-clacks of mechanical keyboards? Or dreamt of typing like a lightning bolt? Then, step into the exciting world of Kailh switches, where performance meets variety and affordability. When choosing the perfect switch customizable keyboard, the switch type can significantly affect your typing experience. Kailh switches, known for their durability and smooth performance, have gained immense popularity among keyboard enthusiasts.

In this article, we will explore the different types of Kailh switches, compare their features, and help you choose the best keyboard with Kailh switches based on your needs.

Understanding Different Kailh Switch Types

Like a box of crayons, Kailh switches come in a spectrum of colors, each representing a specific switch type. Let’s explore some popular options:

• Red

Smooth and silent, the red switch is a gamer’s favorite, allowing for lightning-fast keystrokes without a peep.

• Brown

The tactile bump of the Kailh brown switches offers reassuring feedback without the noise, making it ideal for both work and play.

• Blue

The iconic clicky switch, the Kailh blue switches, are for those who love the audible confirmation of each keystroke. Prepare for a symphony of clicks on your desk!

• Kailh Speed Silver Switches

If you’re looking for lightning-fast key presses, Kailh Speed Silver switches are worth considering. With an actuation force of only 40 grams, these switches offer a feather-light typing experience, making them ideal for gamers and individuals who require rapid keystrokes. The linear nature of Kailh Speed Silver switches ensures a smooth and consistent feel, allowing for effortless typing and gaming sessions.

• Kailh Box White Switches

For those who prefer a tactile and clicky typing experience, the Kailh Box White switches are an excellent choice. With an actuation force of 55 grams, these switches provide satisfying feedback with each key press. The crisp click sound adds extra enjoyment, making typing a genuinely immersive experience. Whether you’re a writer, programmer, or simply an enthusiast who appreciates the joy of typing, Kailh Box White switches deliver a delightful tactile experience.

• Kailh Speed Copper Switches

Suppose you’re searching for a switch that balances the smoothness of linear switches and the tactile feedback of clicky switches. In that case, the Kailh Speed Copper switches offer a unique solution. With an actuation force of 50 grams, these switches provide a satisfying tactile bump without being overly clicky. This makes them suitable for gaming and typing, offering a versatile option for those who value versatility in their keyboards.

• Kailh Box Switches

Kailh Box switches are renowned for their exceptional durability and resistance to dust and moisture. Their unique design prevents keycap wobbling, providing a stable typing experience. With options like the Kailh Box Red, known for its smooth linear feel, and the Kailh Box White, which offers a tactile and clicky experience, these switches have gained a loyal following among gamers and typists.

Cherry MX Speed vs. Kailh Speed Silver: Which is Better?

Feature	Cherry MX Speed	Kailh Speed Silver
Actuation Force	45 cN	40 cN
Travel Distance	3.4 mm	3.2 mm
Bottom-out Force	60 cN	55 cN
Sound Profile	High-pitched click	High-pitched click
Responsiveness	Very fast	Extremely fast
Anti-Ghosting	N-key rollover	Full N-key rollover
Hot-swappable	No	Yes (on most PCBs)
Price	Generally more expensive	Generally more affordable
Availability	Widely available	Less common than Cherry MX Speed
Target Audience	Competitive gamers, typists who prioritize speed	Extremely fast typists, competitive gamers who prefer a lighter actuation force

Cherry MX Speed and Kailh Speed Silver switches are known for their lightning-fast actuation and smooth typing experience. However, there are some key differences to consider when choosing between the two.

Cherry MX Speed switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly higher than Kailh Speed Silver switches. This can result in a more tactile experience, making the Cherry MX Speed switches a preferred choice for typists who appreciate more feedback.

On the other hand, Kailh Speed Silver switches, with their 40-gram actuation force, provide an ultra-light and effortless keystroke, making them a popular choice among gamers who require rapid vital presses.

Ultimately, choosing Cherry MX Speed and Kailh Speed Silver switches is a personal preference. Typing enthusiasts lean towards the Cherry MX Speed switches for their tactile feel. At the same time, gamers might find the Kailh Speed Silver hits more suitable for their need for speed.

Choosing the Best Keyboard with Kailh Switches

Now that we have explored the different types of Kailh switches, let’s choose the best low profile keyboards that incorporate these switches. We will consider three categories: budget-friendly options, feature-packed keyboards, and high-performance keyboards.

1. Best Budget Kailh Switch Keyboards

Forget mushy membranes! You crave the crisp click-clack of Kailh switches, but your wallet cries, “Nay“? Fear not, budget-minded friend! We’ve scoured the keyboard kingdom and mined 3 top Kailh competitors that will keep you from breaking. These are your gateway to the glorious world of mechanical keyboards, bursting with performance and features without draining your bank account.

1. RK G68: The Mini mechanical Keyboards (Tenkeyless, Wired, Clicky Kailh)

• Click like a boss: Satisfying Kailh Box White switches make every keystroke a joyful snap.
• Compact champ: Tenkeyless layout saves desk space, perfect for battle station warriors.
• Plug and play: A simple wired connection means no fuss, just pure clicky fun.
• Light up your life: Customize the RGB backlit keyboards to match your mood.
• Wallet-friendly hero: Under $50! This keyboard punches way above its price tag.

2. E-Blue Skyloong GK61: The Pocket Powerhouse

• Fly like a butterfly, type like a bee: Kailh switches make your fingers dance across the keys.
• Pocket rocket: Mini 60% layout travels with you, perfect for on-the-go warriors.
• Wireless freedom, wired reliability: Choose wired for stability or wireless for desk-escaping adventures.
• Simple glow: White LED backlighting keeps things stylish and elegant.
• Around $60: This keyboard is a steal for its features and portability.

3. Tecware Phantom 87: The Feature King (Full-size, Wired, Tactile Kailh)

• Go full-size: All the keys you need, no compromises. Perfect for productivity champions.
• Kailh Brown goodness: Enjoy a satisfying bump with every keystroke for a comfortable typing experience.
• Light up your world: Customize the RGB backlighting to match your mood and style.
• Wired for success: Plug and play, ideal for office warriors who mean business.
• Around $70: This keyboard delivers full-size features without breaking the bank.

Bonus Tip
Used or refurbished keyboards can be even kinder to your wallet. Just research the condition and warranty before diving in.

2. Best Feature-Packed Kailh Switch Keyboards

Tired of bare boards? Craving a keyboard that’s as feature-packed as a Swiss Army knife? Buckle up because we’re about to dive into the feature-rich world of Kailh switch keyboards! These aren’t just click-clack machines; they’re productivity powerhouses, ergonomic havens, and RGB spectacles rolled into one. Let’s explore the top 3 contenders that’ll have you swooning:

1. Keychron K8 Pro Hot-Swap Keyboards (Full-size, Wired/Wireless, Kailh Box White)

This keyboard is a feature buffet:

• Hot-swappable switches: Swap your Kailh Box Whites for Browns, Reds, or anything your heart desires without soldering. Many Kailh switches are hot-swappable, meaning you can easily change them. This opens the door to a universe of possibilities, including custom keycaps for a unique keyboard.
• Macro magic: Program custom macros to automate repetitive tasks and unleash your inner productivity ninja.
• Media maestro: Dedicated media keys let you control the volume, skip tracks, and mute with a single click.
• Ergonomic angles: The angled design and included wrist rest keep your wrists happy during marathon typing sessions.
• RGB extravaganza: Customizable RGB lighting lets you paint your desk with a million colors.

Bonus: Full-size layout and your choice of wired or wireless connectivity.

2. Glorious GMMK Pro (Tenkeyless, Wired/Wireless, Kailh Speed Silver)

This keyboard is all about customization:

• Hot-swappable switches: Unleash your inner switch enthusiast and tailor your typing experience to perfection.
• Fully programmable: Remap any key or create custom macros to make your workflow sing.
• Dedicated media keys: Control your audio like a pro without breaking your typing stride.
• Sleek and stylish: The tenkeyless layout and aluminum construction scream “premium.”
• RGB wonderland: Per-key RGB lighting lets you personalize each key with color flair.

Bonus: Choose from wired or wireless connectivity and various switch types.

3. Ducky One 3 Mini Pro (60%, Wired, Kailh Box Brown)

This keyboard is a pocket powerhouse:

• Hot-swappable switches: Experiment and find your perfect typing match, even on this tiny titan.
• Macro-ready: Program custom shortcuts to conquer your daily tasks with a few keystrokes.
• Dedicated media keys: Control your music and videos without leaving your typing zone.
• Ergonomic tilt: The angled design keeps your wrists comfortable even after hours of typing.
• Compact convenience: This 60% layout fits anywhere, making it perfect for minimalist setups.

Bonus: Choose from a variety of switch types and vibrant color options.

3. Best High-Performance Kailh Switch Keyboards

Are you a gaming god seeking the ultimate keyboard to unleash your inner esports champion? Or perhaps a demanding user who needs a keyboard that can handle anything you throw at it? Fear not, keyboard warriors, for we’ve assembled the holy trinity of high-performance Kailh switch keyboards, ready to fuel your digital dominance!

1. SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless (60%, Wireless, Kailh Speed Silver)

This keyboard is a wireless whirlwind:

• Lightning-fast Kailh Speed Silver switches: React like a pro with their ultra-low actuation force for instant keystrokes.
• Unmatched responsiveness: A 300Hz polling rate ensures every command is registered with lightning speed.
• Ghost-busting N-key rollover: Say goodbye to phantom keystrokes and dominate the battlefield without fear of missed inputs.
• Built for battle: Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy chassis withstands even the most intense gaming sessions.
• Customize your conquest: Fine-tune your keyboard’s performance with the SteelSeries GG software, from key mapping to macros to lighting effects.

Bonus: Tenkeyless layout for portability and a stunning wireless design for a clutter-free desk.

2. HyperX Alloy Elite 2 (Full-size, Wired, Kailh Red)

This keyboard is a full-size fortress:

• Smooth and speedy Kailh Red switches: Conquer every challenge with their linear actuation for rapid keystrokes.
• 1000Hz polling rate: Experience near-instantaneous command registration for ultimate responsiveness.
• Full anti-ghosting: Press as many keys as you like, and your every command will be heard loud and clear.
• Solid like a tank: Steel frame and reinforced keys ensure this keyboard can handle even the most passionate gamers.
• HyperX NGENUITY software: Customize everything from lighting effects and macros to performance settings to create the perfect weapon for your digital battles.

Bonus: Dedicated media keys and a comfortable wrist rest for marathon gaming sessions.

3. Ducky One 3 TKL Pro (Tenkeyless, Wired, Kailh Box White)

This keyboard is a clicky champion:

• Crisp and responsive Kailh Box White switches: Hear and feel every keystroke with their satisfying click and low actuation force.
• 800Hz polling rate: React instantly to every in-game action with near-instantaneous command registration.
• Full N-key rollover: Unleash your multi-key combos without fear of missed inputs or phantom keystrokes.
• Ducky PBT keycaps: Durable and long-lasting, these gaming keycaps can handle any amount of finger-flying fury.
• Ducky Macro Editor: Program custom macros and key remaps to personalize your gameplay and dominate the competition.

Bonus: Tenkeyless layout for portability and a sleek design with vibrant LED backlighting.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Keyboard with Kailh Switches

When selecting a keyboard with Kailh switches, there are several factors to consider:

• Switch type: Determine the type of Kailh switch that suits your typing or gaming style, whether you prefer linear, tactile, or clicky switches.
• Layout: Consider the layout that best fits your needs, such as full-size, tenkeyless, or a compact 60% layout.
• Connectivity: Decide if you prefer a wired or wireless keyboard based on your preference for convenience or minimal cable clutter.
• Backlight options: If you enjoy customizing your keyboard aesthetics, look for highly customizable RGB lighting.
• Additional features: Assess if you require hot-swappable switches, programmable macros, dedicated media keys, ergonomic design, or customizable software.

Considering these factors, you can find the perfect keyboard with Kailh switches that enhance your typing or gaming experience.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Kailh low-profile switches offer various options to cater to different preferences and needs. The Kailh Speed Silver switches offer a feather-light typing experience for those seeking lightning-fast vital presses. In contrast, the Kailh Box White switches deliver a tactile and clicky typing experience. The Kailh Speed Copper switches provide a balance between smoothness and tactile feedback.

When comparing Cherry MX Speed and Kailh Speed Silver switch keyboards, the former offers a more tactile experience. At the same time, the latter provides an ultra-light and effortless keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and intended use. Regarding Custom mechanical keyboards, there are budget-friendly options like the RK G68 and E-Blue Skyloong GK61 and the feature-packed Tecware Phantom 87 for those seeking a full-size keyboard.

With these tips and the shared keyboards, you’re ready to find your perfect Kailh match! So grab your mechanical keyboard compass, embrace the click-clack, and conquer the world, one keystroke at a time!