In this article, we will discuss the different types of Kailh style switches, their features, and how to choose the right one for your needs. We will also provide some tips on how to install and maintain Kailh style switches.
So let’s start!
What is a Kailh style switch?
A Kailh style keyboard switch is a type of mechanical switch that is made by the Chinese company Kailh. Kailh switches are compatible with Cherry MX style hotswap keyboards, which means that they can be easily swapped out with other switches without soldering.
Kailh switches are available in a variety of different types, including linear, tactile, and clicky. They also come in a variety of different colors, which indicate the switch’s characteristics. For example, red switches are linear, while blue switches are clicky.
Kailh switches are known for their durability and reliability. They have a lifetime rating of 60 million keystrokes, which means that they should last for many years of use. Additionally, Kailh switches are IP56 rated for dust and water resistance, which makes them ideal for use in gaming keyboards.
Here is a table of the different types of Kailh switches:
| Switch Type | Actuation Force | Travel Distance | Sound |
| Linear | 45g | 2.0mm | Quiet |
| Tactile | 50g | 2.0mm | Slight bump |
| Clicky | 55g | 2.0mm | Click |
| Speed | 45g | 1.8mm | Quiet |
| Low-Profile | 35g | 1.2mm | Quiet |
Kailh switches are a popular choice for mechanical keyboards, and they offer a variety of different typing experiences to choose from. If you are looking for a durable and reliable switch, then Kailh switches are a good option.
How do you pronounce Kailh?
The most common way to pronounce Kailh is the same as the word “kale”, that leafy cabbage. This is the pronunciation that is used by the company itself, and it is the pronunciation that is most commonly used by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
However, the name Kailh is a Chinese word, and it can also be pronounced in other ways. In Mandarin Chinese, the name is pronounced “Kai-li”. This pronunciation is less common, but it is still sometimes used by people who are familiar with the Chinese language.
How is typig experience of kailh switches?
According to my experience Overall, the typing experience of Kailh switches is smooth and responsive. low profile are a good choice for people who are looking for a durable and reliable switch that offers a variety of different typing experiences.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Kailh Blue: These switches are clicky and provide both tactile and audible feedback. They have a pronounced bump when pressed and make a distinct clicking sound, resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
- Kailh Brown: These switches are tactile but non-clicky. They offer a noticeable bump when pressed, providing tactile feedback, but they do not produce a loud click sound. They are generally considered a good balance between typing comfort and noise level.
- Kailh Red: These switches are linear and do not offer tactile feedback or audible clicks. They have a smooth keystroke from top to bottom, making them suitable for rapid typing. They are often favored by gamers for their quick and quiet operation.
Are Kailh Switches Good?
Yes, Kailh switches are generally considered to be good switches for keyboards. Because They are durable and reliable, and they offer a variety of different typing experiences to choose from.
They have gained popularity among keyboard enthusiasts and gamers for several reasons:
- Variety of Options: Kailh offers a wide range of switch options, including clicky, tactile, and linear switches. This allows users to choose a switch that suits their preference in terms of typing feel and sound.
- Durability: Kailh switches are known for their durability and longevity. They are designed to withstand heavy use and are rated for a high number of keystrokes, ensuring they can handle prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming sessions without issues.
- Competitive Pricing: Kailh switches often provide good value for their price. Compared to some other popular switch brands, Kailh switches are often more affordable, making them an attractive choice for those looking for a quality keyboard switch without breaking the bank.
- Customizability: Kailh switches are compatible with various keyboard brands and layouts, making them easily replaceable or upgradable. This allows keyboard enthusiasts to personalize their typing experience by swapping out switches to suit their preferences.
While personal preferences for keyboard switches may vary, Kailh switches have earned a positive reputation in the mechanical keyboard community and are generally considered to be good switches offering a satisfying typing experience.
Are Kailh Switches Hot-Swappable?
Yes, Kailh switches are hot-swappable. This means that they can be easily removed and replaced without soldering.
Hot-swappable keyboards are becoming increasingly popular, as they allow users to experiment with different switches without having to desolder their keyboard every time they want to try something new.
There are a few different types of hot-swappable PCBs, and not all of them are compatible with all Kailh switches. However, most hot-swappable PCBs will work with the standard 3-pin Kailh switches.
If you are not sure whether or not your keyboard is hot-swappable, you can check the manufacturer’s website or contact them directly.
What are types of kailh switches?
There are major 4 types of kailh switches?
- Kailh speed switches
- Kailh box switches
- Kailh Regular switches
- Kailh low profile switches.
Each type of Kailh switch caters to different preferences and use cases. The Speed switches prioritize fast typing speeds, Box switches provide added protection against debris and liquids, Regular switches offer a standard typing experience, and Low-Profile switches are designed for slim keyboard designs.
Consider your typing preferences and the specific requirements of your keyboard when choosing the type of Kailh switch that suits you best.
Here I have explained further each switche, so you can get more details about them.
1.Kailh Speed Switches
Kailh Speed switches are designed for fast and responsive typing. They have a shorter actuation point compared to standard switches, which means they register keystrokes with a shorter distance of key travel. This can result in quicker typing speeds and reduced finger fatigue.
Kailh Speed switches are available in different variants, such as Kailh Speed Silver, Speed Bronze, and Speed Copper, each offering different actuation forces and tactile feedback.
2.Kailh Box Switches
Kailh Box switches are known for their water and dust resistance. They feature a protective casing around the stem, which helps to prevent debris or liquids from entering the switch and potentially causing damage.
Kailh Box switches come in various types, including Box White, Box Brown, Box Red, and more, offering different levels of tactile feedback and actuation forces.
3.Kailh Regular switches
Kailh Regular switches, also known as Kailh MX-style switches, are the standard switches offered by Kailh. They are compatible with most keyboard layouts and are widely used in mechanical keyboards.
These switches are available in different variants, such as Kailh Blue, Brown, Red, and Black. They provide tactile and audible feedback (except for the linear Kailh Black), allowing users to feel and hear when a key is pressed.
4.Kailh Low-Profile Switches
Kailh Low-Profile switches are designed for slim or low-profile keyboards. They have a shorter height compared to regular switches, allowing for thinner keyboard designs.
These switches are available in different types, such as Low-Profile Blue, Brown, Red, and Choc switches. Despite their slim profile, they still offer tactile and audible feedback similar to their regular counterparts.
What is the difference between Kailh and Cherry switches?
Kailh and Cherry are two of the most popular brands of mechanical keyboard switches. They both offer a wide variety of switches, including linear, tactile, and clicky. However, there are some key differences between the two brands.
Kailh switches are generally considered to be more affordable than Cherry switches. They are also available in a wider variety of colors.
Cherry switches are generally considered to be higher quality than Kailh switches. They are also more durable and reliable. However, Cherry switches are more expensive than Kailh switches.
Here is a table of the key differences between Kailh and Cherry switches:
| Feature | Kailh | Cherry |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Colors | Wider variety of colors | Limited variety of colors |
| Scratchiness | Can be a bit scratchy | Smoother |
| Stem compatibility | Not as compatible with keycaps | More compatible with keycaps |
| Durability | Less durable | More durable |
| Reliability | Less reliable | More reliable |
So Let me share my opinion about Kailh switches. If you are looking for an affordable switch with a wide variety of colors, then Kailh switches are a good option. However, if you are looking for a high-quality switch with smooth operation and good compatibility with keycaps, then Cherry switches are a good option.
Here are some of the best Kailh and Cherry switches for different typing styles:
Kailh switches:
- Linear switches: Kailh Box Red, Kailh Speed Silver
- Tactile switches: Kailh Box Brown, Kailh BOX Royal
- Clicky switches: Kailh BOX Jade, Kailh BOX Navy
Cherry switches:
- Linear switches: Cherry MX Red, Cherry MX Black
- Tactile switches: Cherry MX Brown, Cherry MX Clear
- Clicky switches: Cherry MX Blue, Cherry MX Green
I have explained well and hope this will help You to learn more about kailh switches!
Is Kailh an MX switch?
Kailh switches are not MX switches, but they are compatible with MX-style hotswap keyboards. This means that you can easily swap out Kailh switches for other MX-style switches without having to solder.
Kailh switches are based on the Cherry MX switch design, but they have some slight modifications. For example, Kailh switches have a different stem design that is not as compatible with keycaps as Cherry MX stems.
However, most keycaps will still fit on Kailh switches, and the difference is usually not noticeable.
Is Kailh better than Cherry MX?
The given statement is comparing Kailh switches with Cherry MX switches, which are both types of mechanical switches commonly used in keyboards. Kailh switches are considered clones of Cherry MX switches, meaning they are designed to imitate the functionality and feel of Cherry MX switches.
Kailh switches are not considered the best among the available options. They are described as feeling scratchy, meaning they may have a rough or unpleasant tactile feedback when pressed. In comparison, the answer suggests that Gateron switches and Cherry MX switches are superior to Kailh switches
If you are specifically looking for a basic switch type such as Red, Brown, or Blue, the answer advises against choosing Kailh switches and recommends opting for Gateron or Outemu switches instead. Gateron switches are known for their smoothness and are often praised as an alternative to Cherry MX switches.
Outemu switches are another type of Cherry MX clone and are generally considered decent, although they may vary in quality depending on the specific model.
Do Kailh switches have RGB?
Yes, many Kailh switches have RGB. In fact, Kailh was one of the first switch manufacturers to offer RGB switches. Kailh RGB switches use a four-pin design, with the fourth pin being used to connect the LED. This allows for more vibrant and accurate RGB lighting.
Some of the most popular Kailh RGB switches include:
- Kailh BOX White RGB
- Kailh BOX Navy RGB
- Kailh BOX Jade RGB
- Kailh BOX Pink RGB
- Kailh BOX Heavy Plum RGB
These switches are all available in a variety of colors, and they offer a variety of different typing experiences. Whether you are looking for a linear, tactile, or clicky switch, Kailh has an RGB switch that is perfect for you.
What is the rarest Cherry MX switch?
The rarest Cherry MX switch is the Cherry MX Lock. It is a latching switch, which means that it stays activated until it is released. This type of switch was originally used on typewriters, but it was never mass-produced for keyboards. As a result, Cherry MX Lock switches are very rare and highly sought-after by collectors.
Another rare Cherry MX switch is the Cherry MX Clear. It is a tactile switch with a medium spring weight. Cherry MX Clear switches were originally intended for the spacebar on Cherry MX Blue keyboards, but they were never mass-produced.
However, they have since become popular with enthusiasts who prefer a tactile switch with a heavier spring weight.
Cherry MX Nixie is a rare variant of the Cherry MX Black switch. It has a heavier spring weight and a clear plastic case. Cherry MX Nixie switches were originally produced for Nixdorf keyboards in the 1980s. They are now very rare and can sell for upwards of $7 per switch.
What colors are the Kailh switches?
Kailh switches come in a variety of colors, each with its own unique feel and sound. Here is a list of the most common Kailh switch colors:
- Red: A linear switch with a light spring weight. It is smooth and quiet, making it a good choice for gaming or typing.
- Blue: A tactile switch with a clicky sound. It has a medium spring weight and a pronounced tactile bump. It is a good choice for people who want a tactile switch with a lot of feedback.
- Brown: A tactile switch with a quiet sound. It has a medium spring weight and a tactile bump that is not as pronounced as the Blue switch. It is a good choice for people who want a tactile switch that is not too loud.
- Black: A linear switch with a heavy spring weight. It is smooth and quiet, making it a good choice for people who want a heavy switch that is not too clicky.
- Speed Silver: A linear switch with a very light spring weight. It is smooth and fast, making it a good choice for people who want a switch that is easy to actuate.
- Speed Bronze: A tactile switch with a very light spring weight. It has a pronounced tactile bump and is fast, making it a good choice for people who want a switch that is easy to actuate and has a lot of feedback.
- Box White: A clicky switch with a light spring weight. It has a pronounced tactile bump and a clicky sound. It is a good choice for people who want a switch that is both tactile and clicky.
- Box Navy: A tactile switch with a heavy spring weight. It has a pronounced tactile bump and a clicky sound. It is a good choice for people who want a switch that is both tactile and clicky with a heavy spring weight.
- Box Jade: A clicky switch with a heavy spring weight. It has a pronounced tactile bump and a very clicky sound. It is a good choice for people who want a switch that is both tactile and clicky with a heavy spring weight.
These are just a few of the many Kailh switch colors that are available. There are also many other colors that are less common, such as the Kailh BOX Pink and the Kailh BOX Heavy Plum.
What is the lifespan of Kailh?
Kailh switches are known for their durability and reliability, making them a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
The lifespan of Kailh switches is often stated to be up to 80 million clicks. This means that the switches are designed to endure 80 million keystrokes before their performance may start to degrade.
This figure is an estimate provided by the manufacturer and can vary depending on factors such as usage patterns, maintenance, and individual switch quality. However, Kailh switches are generally considered to have a long lifespan, which contributes to their reputation for quality.
Is Kailh box white good for gaming?
Yes, the Kailh Box White switches are suitable for gaming, because of their tactile feedback and clicky sound. Which making them popular among typists and gamers who enjoy the tactile feel and audible feedback while pressing the keys.
These switches have a relatively light actuation force of around 50 grams, which means they are relatively easy to press and can allow for fast key presses during gaming sessions.
However, it’s important to note that the choice of switch for gaming is highly subjective, and different individuals have different preferences.
If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback and audible click, the Kailh Box White switches can be a good option for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter switch, you might want to consider other options such as linear or silent switches.
What is the difference between Kailh tactile and linear?
The main difference between Kailh tactile and linear switches lies in their behavior and feedback when you press the keys.
Tactile Switches: Kailh tactile switches, such as the Kailh Box White, provide tactile feedback when you press the key.
Tactile switches have a noticeable bump or tactile event in their key travel. This bump provides a physical sensation, indicating that the keypress has been registered.
Tactile switches are popular among typists and gamers who appreciate the tactile feedback as it can help with typing accuracy and actuation awareness.
Linear Switches: On the other hand, Kailh linear switches, such as the Kailh Box Red or Kailh Box Black, do not have a tactile bump. They offer a smooth and consistent keystroke from top to bottom without any interruption in the key travel.
Linear switches provide a linear and uninterrupted experience, making them favored by gamers who prefer a smoother and faster keystroke for gaming actions that require quick and constant key presses.
tactile switches provide a tactile bump that can be felt when pressing the keys, offering a more pronounced feedback. Linear switches, on the other hand, have a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, resulting in a smoother and more linear experience.
The choice between tactile and linear switches depends on personal preference and the intended use, whether it’s for typing, gaming, or a combination of both.
Final words:
So Let me give my final words on it.
Kailh style switches are a type of mechanical keyboard switch that is designed to be compatible with MX-style keycaps. They are made by the Kailh company and are available in a variety of colors, each with its own unique feel and sound.
Kailh switches are a popular choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts because they are relatively affordable and offer a wide range of options.
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