Switches
MX, Choc v1, Choc v2, Gateron low profile...?
Last updated
MX, Choc v1, Choc v2, Gateron low profile...?
Last updated
There are several types of mechanical switches on the market, each with distinct features and advantages. The MX switches are popular for their wide variety, while the Choc V1 switches are well-known for their low profile and fast actuation. Gateron Low Profile switches were introduced to provide a slim form factor while still being compatible with MX keycaps. Recently, Kailh released the Choc V2 switches, which improve upon the Choc V1 and offer features similar to Gateron Low Profile switches.
Pros:
Wide Variety: MX switches are the standard in mechanical keyboards, offering a broad range of options, including linear, tactile, and clicky variants. The choice in actuation force and sound profile makes MX switches highly customizable.
Keycap Compatibility: MX switches are compatible with a vast array of keycaps in various profiles and colorways, providing significant flexibility for personalizing your keyboard.
Cons:
Larger Profile: MX switches are taller compared to low-profile options, which might not appeal to those seeking a slim and compact keyboard.
Bulkier Keyboards: Due to their height, MX switches often lead to bulkier keyboard designs, which could be a drawback for those looking for portability
Pros:
Low Profile: Choc V1 switches are renowned for their slim design and fast actuation, making them ideal for users who prioritize a low-profile, compact keyboard.
Fast Actuation: With a short travel distance and low actuation force, Choc V1 switches offer a responsive typing experience.
Improved Options: While the earlier batches of Choc V1 switches (like the red linear) were less favored due to poor feel, recent improvements, such as the 35g Red Pro Linear, have become popular, and new variants like Sunset Tactile (with a redesigned stem and factory lube) by Lowprokb have been well-received. They also offer some impressive silent switches, like the Twilight Silent Linear (35g) and Nocturnal Silent Linear (20g), which are perfect for quieter environments.
Cons:
Limited Variety: Choc V1 switches have fewer options compared to MX switches, and keycaps are only compatible with Choc-specific keycaps, which limits customization options.
Higher Price in Asia: While these switches are easier to source in Western countries, besides the 35g Red Pro Linear, Sunset Tactile, Twilight and Nocturnal Silent Linear tend to be more expensive in Asia.
Pros:
Low Profile: Gateron Low Profile switches offer a slim design, making them perfect for users who want a compact and sleek keyboard without compromising too much on performance.
MX Keycap Compatibility: These switches are compatible with MX keycaps, which gives users access to a wide variety of keycap options in different colorways and profiles.
Cons:
Limited Variety: While Gateron Low Profile switches introduced the low-profile concept with MX compatibility, there are fewer variants available in the market. This limits your options in terms of switch feel and actuation force.
Lack of Integration in PCB Designs: Due to the limited availability and variety of Gateron Low Profile switches, they are not often integrated into custom PCB designs.
Pros:
Improved Design: Choc V2 switches build on the Choc V1 with improved switch options, making them a more refined choice for low-profile fans.
Wider Variety: Kailh has introduced more variants for Choc V2 switches, such as Kailh Deep Sea Mini, Islet Mini, Black Cloud, and Hide Mountain, giving users more choices for different typing experiences.
Keycap Compatibility: Choc V2 switches support MX-compatible keycaps, which means you can use a wider range of keycaps, including popular profiles like Cherry, XDA, and Low-Profile MX keycaps like XVX and LPF by FK.
Silent Options: Choc V2 now has silent variants like Kailh Deep Sea Mini and Islet Mini, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Same Height as Choc V1: With LPF keycaps, Choc V2 achieves the same height as Choc V1 with MBK keycaps, allowing users to maintain a slim, low-profile design.
Cons:
Compatibility Issues with High-Profile Keycaps: Higher-profile keycaps like SA and MT3 do not fit Choc V2 switches properly because they are too tall and interfere with the switch plate.
No Choc-spacing Option: Unlike Choc V1, which allows for a closer key spacing (known as Choc-spacing), Choc V2 cannot achieve this spacing due to the compatibility with MX keycaps.
MX switches are the most versatile, offering a wide variety of options and compatibility with a broad range of keycaps. However, they are bulkier and may not appeal to those seeking a low-profile keyboard.
Choc V1 switches are perfect for low-profile fans who prefer fast actuation and a slim design. While they have limited variety and keycap compatibility, recent improvements, like the Sunset Tactile and Ambients Silent, have made them more popular. Additionally, the Choc V1 is the only variant to feature Choc-spacing, a narrower layout that brings the keys closer together for a more compact and ergonomic typing experience.
Gateron Low Profile switches are a great budget-friendly option for low-profile builds and are compatible with MX keycaps, though they have fewer variants available.
Choc V2 switches improve upon the V1 design, offering more variety and MX keycap compatibility, making them an excellent choice for users who want a low-profile, customizable experience with a wider range of switch types.
The choice ultimately comes down to your typing preferences, desired keycap compatibility, and the type of keyboard you want to build. Whether you're looking for a traditional mechanical feel, a slim profile, or a quiet typing experience, there's a switch for every need!
Recommendation for Low-Profile Builds
For Users in Asia: Consider Choc V2 switches paired with low-profile MX-compatible keycaps such as LPF or XVX. This combination offers excellent value for money and is ideal for users looking for a premium low-profile experience.
For Users in Western Countries: You have several options:
Choc V1 switches with keycaps designed specifically for Choc V1. These are widely available in your region, making it easy to source compatible components.
Choc V2 switches from our store, paired with any MX-compatible low-profile keycaps. Our Choc V2 switches are priced competitively, often cheaper than what’s locally available in your country, offering a cost-effective alternative for a high-quality build.
