Best Optical Switches [2023 Edition]

Are you looking for the best gaming keyboard with optical switches? Optical switches are gaining traction in the gaming keyboard realm, thanks to their swift actuation times and impressive durability. This piece explores the finest optical switches available currently and offers pointers to consider when selecting a gaming keyboard armed with optical switches. We’ll also explore how optical switches can improve your experience when playing games. So if you’re looking for an edge in your gaming performance, read on!

Gateron Brown Optical Switches

If you’re on the hunt for a cost-effective optical switch, Gateron Brown Optical Switches provide an ideal solution. They feature a tactile feel with low noise levels and a slight bump on each key press, making them perfect for gaming or typing without disturbing others. The actuation force is 55g – light enough to prevent fatigue from extended use yet providing ample feedback when needed. Plus, they’re shine-through compatible with RGB LED Keyboards, allowing easy swapping without any soldering required.

The only downside of Gateron Brown Optical Switches may be their propensity to be quite loud if not outfitted with dampening tools—as well as reports of some quality control issues by consumers in the past. Nevertheless, these minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by the great value when compared to other optical switches available on the market.

Keychron Low-Profile Optical White

The Keychron Low-Profile Optical White keyboard is the perfect choice for gamers and typists who need fast, reliable performance. This full-sized keyboard features ultra-low latency optical switches that have 1.1 ±0.3mm pre-travel and 30 ±10gf operating force with a total travel of 2.5 ±0.3mm, providing a linear feeling similar to MX style stem housing.

These keys are a breeze to install and replace, catering to those who enjoy personalizing their keyboards or occasionally swapping out individual keys. Not to mention, the longevity of these keys significantly surpasses industry norms, ensuring you derive maximum value from your investment over time!

While we did experience some squeakiness from the plastic nub/shaft that is pushed out the bottom of each switch, overall we found this product to be an outstanding option for anyone looking for one of the best optical switches around today. The low profile design makes it ideal for gamers looking for faster response times while typing or playing games.

Gateron Red Optical

Gateron Red Optical switches are some of the best on the market for gaming keyboards. They offer a fast and responsive gaming experience, making them ideal for professional gamers or those who demand the highest performance from their keyboard. The switch is plate mounted with 1-pin design and compatible with optical PCB only, which makes it great for hot swap mechanical gaming keyboards and DIY custom keyboards. Gateron Optical Red comes with a puller tool included in the package, allowing you to easily remove keys when needed. The linear switch offers a snappy feel that many gamers find appealing and they’re also rated for 100M actuation, meaning they will last through plenty of intense gaming sessions. On top of that, they provide excellent backlighting clarity since there aren’t any obstructions blocking light from passing through.

The main downside to these switches is the price tag – they can be more expensive than other switches with similar sound. Additionally, compared to other mechanical tactile switches, Gateron Red Optical has slightly lower tactility so if you prefer something more tactile then this might not be your best option. All in all though, Gateron Red Optical provides an overall pleasant click and great fit for PCBs that makes them one of the hottest picks on the market right now for those looking for reliable optical switches.

Punkston H&J Optical Yellow Switch

The Punkston H&J Optical Yellow Switch is a great choice for gamers looking for the best optical switches on the market. Its infrared optical sensing component and two-state design ensures that commands are triggered quickly and accurately, making it a great option for fast-paced gaming. Not to mention, they’re rated for 70 million clicks so you can be sure of their longevity. Additionally, these switches provide satisfying tactile feedback while staying relatively quiet – perfect if you don’t want to disturb others or if you’re in a shared space. All things considered, this switch is an excellent choice for gamers who want reliable and responsive keyboards with great tactile feedback at an affordable price point.

Gateron G Yellow Pro

For gaming aficionados in search of a reliable and economical switch, the Gateron G Yellow Pro MX Mechanical Keyboard switches are an exceptional choice. Pre-lubricated for convenience, they feature silent linear 3-pin designs that are compatible with a multitude of mechanical keyboards and hot swappable options. Furthermore, they come in a variety of colors to suit any preference and boast blister packing that safeguards against damage during transportation or storage.

Moreover, these particular switches are renowned for their durability; every one functions without fail and there is no risk of having dead on arrival units included in the package. Additionally, they can be used with NovelKeys v3, Meletrix Boba U4T Wuque Switches, as well as 2pin LED and 4pin RGB SMD RGB lights – thus making them highly adaptable for any sort of gaming setup.

To sum up, the Gateron G Yellow Pro MX Mechanical Keyboard switches offer great value at an affordable price point – not to mention being among the most reliable optical switch solutions on the market!

Choosing Optical Switches for Gaming

Searching for the optimal optical switches for gaming? Although optical switches are somewhat new and pricier than other switch types, they offer gamers reduced input latency and extraordinarily accurate inputs. This guide is designed to elucidate why optical switches are the ultimate gaming choice and point out the noteworthy ones to consider.

Benefits of Optical Switches

Optical switches offer low input latency, making them ideal for gamers looking to reduce reaction time. They are usually considered faster to operate than linear switches, but may have lower power consumption than optical switches. Additionally, optical switches often more durable than mechanical counterparts and are quiet, making them ideal for use in environments where noise would be a distraction or annoyance.

Optical switches are quickly becoming the go-to choice for gamers looking for a competitive edge with their gaming setup. With low input latency, fast actuation time, and durability, these mechanical-optical hybrids offer the best of both worlds – the accuracy and speed of an optical switch, with the reliability of a mechanical one. If you’re in the market for an optimal gaming experience, then you should definitely consider investing in an optical switch keyboard – your skill level will thank you!

Razer’s Opto-Mechanical Switch

One popular brand of optical switch is Razer’s Opto-Mechanical Switch. These switches rely on fewer moving parts and a laser sensor to actuate faster than traditional mechanical switches with all other things being equal. They also feature switch bounce and debounce which refers to when multiple values are measured in a single keypress caused by metal parts of a switch making contact and rubbing or vibrating against each other. This helps make Razer’s Opto-Mechanical Switch faster and more responsive than traditional switches as well as more durable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, optical switches for gaming keyboards offer gamers a fast and reliable experience with low input latency and accurate inputs. With fewer moving parts than mechanical switches, optical switches are also more durable and quieter, making them ideal for gaming in shared spaces. Ultimately, investing in an optical switch keyboard is the best way to ensure optimal performance when playing games or typing.