Explore our comprehensive collection of high-travel mechanical switches, featuring a total travel distance of 4.0mm or more. These switches offer a classic, deep keystroke perfect for typists who appreciate pronounced feedback and deliberate actuation. Use our advanced filters to sort by switch type, brand, actuation force, and price to find the ideal switch for your next custom keyboard build. Compare specifications and check real-time availability from multiple vendors to make an informed decision. Find the perfect high-travel switch to enhance your typing experience and build your ultimate mechanical keyboard.
High-travel switches are a popular choice for enthusiasts building a custom keyboard. With a deeper press and distinct feedback, they offer a typing experience many find more satisfying. Here, we answer common questions to help you choose the right high-travel switch.
A high-travel switch is typically characterized by a total travel distance of 4.0mm or more. This extended travel path from initial press to bottom-out provides a deliberate and substantial feel, which is often preferred by typists and users of a classic mechanical keyboard. The longer distance can help prevent accidental key presses and offers a more controlled keystroke.
Many leading brands produce excellent high-travel switches. Cherry MX has long been the standard, with many of their switches featuring a 4.0mm travel. Gateron is another popular choice, offering smooth-feeling switches at a competitive price. Kailh provides a wide variety of options, including their BOX switches, many of which fall into the high-travel category.
For typing, the pronounced feedback of high-travel switches can improve accuracy and comfort over long sessions. The distinct actuation point helps reduce errors. For gaming, some users may prefer shorter travel for faster response times, but many gamers still favor the control and feedback of a high-travel switch, especially in genres that don't rely on split-second repeated presses.
Absolutely. High-travel switches are a cornerstone of the custom keyboard hobby. They are available in linear, tactile, and clicky variants, allowing for complete personalization. You can further customize them by lubing or changing springs to fine-tune the feel and sound to perfectly match your preferences.
When choosing high-travel switches, consider the actuation force (light vs. heavy), the type (linear, tactile, or clicky), and the housing materials (like polycarbonate or nylon), which affect sound. Check for pin compatibility (3-pin vs. 5-pin) with your PCB. KeebFinder's comparison tools help you filter by these specifications to find the perfect switch for your build.
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