The Best of Linear Switches (Q1 2025)
Linear switches are generally the choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, accounting for nearly 70% of switch sales over at Mecha.
As we move through the first quarter of 2025, we've had enough time to solidify what the favourites are, offering a variety of feels and sound profiles amongst all the noise of new releases.
Here's our favourites and why:
1. Gateron Oil King:
The fan-favourite, one of the oldest switches around the block!
Combined with Gateron's INK material construction, consistent factory lubing and a safe spring-weight: It's no wonder this switch stands the test of time.
Grab some for yourselves!
2. HMX Gravel
HMX's been making waves around the block, and these are no exception.
HMX's methodology revolves around stiffer plastic blends, creating its signature loud poppy bottom-out sound that pairs perfectly with PE foam. There are many HMX switches that move around the sound spectrum today, but the quality remains consistent in them all.
HMX Gravel is our middle-ground for HMX, and is our default recommendation for those looking to get into HMX.
3. Gateron Smoothie
Not wanting to lose to HMX, Gateron brings the pop with Smoothies!
Featuring a full-pom material composition, the switch lends itself a deeper than average sound signature but with a decay that is shorter than that of similar switches.
Combine that with a long-pole stem and two-staged spring, and you got yourself a switch that makes each keypress distinct even at the highest of typing speeds.
Grab some for yourselves!
4. Kailh BCP
A remake of one of the most legendary frankenswitches, like the Holy Panda.
Featuring modern manufacturing techniques, the Kailh BCP brings the velvety signature found from Cherry MX Switches into a deeply satisfying long-pole package without sacrificing on push feel.
The end result is something that Kailh and Off Studio can be proud this switch as a replacement to the original frankenswitch, and in many ways, exceeds it.
Grab some for yourselves!
5. MMD Princess/BSUN Taichi
Both these switches feature BSUN's latest cost-effective mould, and at only RM1.00, these things are a hair short of being straight magic.
Taking the stiff plastic methodology for themselves, BSUN's implementation is even louder, and brighter in tone than that of Gateron Smoothies and the average HMX switch.
However, pair it up with a foam board and you get a sound signature that combines its natural incredibly loud keystroke and a creamy sound signature with just enough bite to not sound muffled.
Discerning users may find the springs lackluster, especially regarding tolerances and spring-ping.
At this price though? Maybe expectations need to be tempered.
Grab MMD Princess for yourselves!
Grab BSUN Taichi for yourselves!
These are the top 5 out of a ridiculously large catalog, and there are so many more brilliant switches that didn't quite make the cut this time.
Switches like the HMX Raptor Extreme, SWK Catmints and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro are brilliant in their own right, and are definitely something worth looking into!