Gateron
Gateron Milky Yellow Pro V2 Linear Switches (70 pcs)
In: Best Linear Switches 2026
- Factory pre-lubed for smoothness
- Affordable 70-pack
Category guide
Keyboard Switches: Linear, Tactile and Clicky Switches Explained
Switches decide how a mechanical keyboard feels and sounds. Type, weight and compatibility matter most.
- 3 roundups · 1 reviews · 2 comparisons · 2 guides
- Updated
- No paid placements
Shop the shortlist
Top keyboard switches we recommend
Standout picks from our best-of lists. Tap any product for features, pros and cons.
- Glorious
Glorious Panda Tactile Switches (36 pcs)
In: Best Tactile Switches 2026
- Strong, satisfying tactile bump
- Plate-mounted 3-pin, works in most hot-swap boards
Best by need
Best keyboard switches for every buyer
Ranked shortlists for specific budgets and use cases. Start with the one that matches yours.
- Best Keyboard Switches 2026: Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh ComparedCherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh switches compared for typing, gaming, and office use across 18 months of testing.See the picks
- Best Linear Switches 2026: Smooth Keystroke for Gaming and TypingLinear switches have a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with no tactile bump or click.See the picks
- Best Tactile Switches 2026: Typing Feedback Without the NoiseTactile switches provide a bump at the actuation point without an audible click.See the picks
Know before you buy
About Keyboard Switches
Linear switches move smoothly without a bump and suit fast typing and gaming. Tactile switches have a bump you can feel at actuation. Clicky switches add an audible click that some love and coworkers often don't.
If your keyboard is hot-swappable, you can try new switches without soldering.
How to choose keyboard switches
Switch type
Linear for smoothness, tactile for feedback, clicky for sound.
Actuation force
Lighter switches reduce finger effort; heavier ones prevent accidental presses.
Sound
Lubed linears and silent switches are quieter for shared spaces.
Compatibility
Check 3-pin vs 5-pin and hot-swap socket support.
Try samples
Switch testers help you choose before buying a full set.
Research-based picks from specs, independent reviews and owner feedback.
No paid placements, ever.
Our methodologyQuick buying tips
What matters most in keyboard switches
- Linear for smoothness, tactile for feedback, clicky for sound.
- Lighter switches reduce finger effort; heavier ones prevent accidental presses.
- Lubed linears and silent switches are quieter for shared spaces.
- Check 3-pin vs 5-pin and hot-swap socket support.
- Switch testers help you choose before buying a full set.
Deep dives
In-depth reviews
Learn first
Buying guides & how-tos
- Buying guideHow to Lube Keyboard Switches: Tools, Lubricants, and Step-by-Step ProcessLube keyboard switches with Krytox 205g0 (linear) or Tribosys 3203 (tactile) using a switch opener, small brush, and switch puller. This guiRead
- Buying guideKeyboard Switch Buying Guide: Linear vs Tactile vs Clicky and How to ChooseChoose a keyboard switch by deciding between linear, tactile, and clicky types, then selecting actuation weight. This guide explains how eacRead
- Buying guideKeyboard Switch Problems: Stuck Keys, Chattering, and How to Fix ThemFix keyboard switches that stick, double-register keystrokes (chatter), or feel scratchy. Covers cleaning, contact cleaning, and when to repRead
Answers
Keyboard Switches: common questions
What is the best keyboard switche to buy?
One of our strongest picks is the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro V2 Linear Switches (70 pcs), a standout in our Best Linear Switches 2026 list. The Glorious Panda Tactile Switches (36 pcs) is another excellent choice.
How do I choose the right keyboard switches?
Start with your main use and budget, then compare our shortlists: Best Keyboard Switches 2026, Best Linear Switches 2026, Best Tactile Switches 2026.
What should I look for when buying keyboard switches?
Linear for smoothness, tactile for feedback, clicky for sound.
Should I lube Gateron Yellow switches?
Stock Gateron Yellows are already smoother than many switches that cost more, but lubing them with Krytox 205g0 produces a dramatic improvement, the scratchy high-frequency sound becomes a low, consistent thock and the keystroke feels significantly smoother. If you are comfortable lubing, Gateron Yellow lubed is competitive with switches that cost 3-4x more.
Are Gateron Yellow switches good for gaming?
The 35g actuation is lighter than the Cherry MX Red standard (45g), which reduces the force required for repeated keypresses during gaming. Light actuation is a meaningful advantage for rapid input in fast-paced games. The tradeoff is a slightly higher risk of accidental keypresses during non-gaming desktop use.
Are Gateron switches as good as Cherry MX?
For raw smoothness and actuation lightness, Gateron Yellow outperforms Cherry MX Red at a lower price. For consistency (identical actuation force across every key) and long-term durability, Cherry MX has a verified track record. For budget builds and first-time linear users, Gateron Yellow is the better value. For professional or competition gaming where consistency matters, Cherry MX or premium Gateron Ink options are preferred.
What lubricant should I use for keyboard switches?
Krytox 205g0 is the standard recommendation for linear switches, it produces the smoothest keystroke and lowest sound. Tribosys 3203 is the standard for tactile switches, it improves smoothness without dampening the tactile bump. Do not use Krytox 205g0 on tactile switches because it coats the bump legs and reduces tactile feedback.
Should I lube springs separately?
Springs develop a rattling sound over time from unlubed coils resonating. Bag-lube the springs separately using a thin oil (Krytox 105 or TriboSys 3204), put the springs in a small bag with a tiny amount of oil and shake. This is faster than individually lubing each spring and effective for the rattle issue.