Browse every linear mechanical keyboard switch available. Compare Gateron Yellow, Cherry MX Red, and hundreds more linear switches by actuation force, smoothness, and price. Find the best linear switch for gaming or typing.
Looking for the smoothest linear switches? Browse every linear switch on the market and compare actuation force, travel distance, materials, and pricing. Filter by brand, weight, and features to find your perfect smooth switch.
Our database tracks every linear switch currently on the market from Gateron, Cherry, Kailh, JWK, Akko, HMX, and more. Linear switches provide smooth, bump-free travel from top to bottom. New releases are added as they launch so you always see the latest options.
Linear switches are the top choice for competitive gaming thanks to their smooth, consistent actuation without tactile interruption. Popular gaming picks include Cherry MX Red (45g, proven reliability), Gateron Yellow (50g, excellent smoothness per dollar), and Cherry MX Speed Silver (45g, short 1.2mm actuation) for the fastest response.
For the smoothest typing experience, premium linears like Gateron Oil King, JWK-based switches, and HMX linears offer butter-smooth keystrokes. Factory-lubed options provide great smoothness out of the box, while hand-lubing with Krytox 205g0 can push any linear to its peak potential.
Budget linears have improved dramatically. Gateron Yellow and Milky Yellow remain the value kings for smooth, affordable switches. Akko CS Cream Yellow and Jelly series also deliver excellent smoothness at budget prices with factory lubrication included.
Light linears (35-45g) like Gateron Clear and Cherry MX Red suit fast typists and gamers who want effortless keypresses. Medium linears (50-55g) like Gateron Yellow offer a balanced feel. Heavy linears (60g+) like Cherry MX Black provide firm resistance that prevents accidental presses during intense use.
Switch materials dramatically affect acoustics. POM stems produce deep, thocky tones. Nylon housings create warmer, lower-pitched sounds. Polycarbonate housings deliver brighter, clackier profiles. Full POM switches like NovelKeys Cream or HMX Cloud offer the deepest, most satisfying sound signatures.