A Guide to Kailh Optical Switches

Kailh optical switches are a popular choice among gamers and enthusiasts looking to upgrade their mechanical keyboards. These switches use infrared light to register keystrokes, which allows for faster and more accurate actuation than traditional mechanical switches.

One of the main advantages of Kailh optical switches is their speed. Because they use infrared light to register keystrokes, the actuation point is reached almost instantly. This means that you can register multiple keystrokes in rapid succession, which can be useful in fast-paced games or when typing at high speeds.

Optical switches also tend to be more durable than traditional mechanical switches. Because there are no physical contact points, there is less wear and tear on the switch, which can lead to a longer lifespan. In addition, optical switches are resistant to dust and debris, which can cause issues with traditional mechanical switches.

Another advantage of Kailh optical switches is their versatility. They come in a variety of actuation forces and styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. For example, Kailh offers linear, clicky, and tactile switches, as well as different actuation forces ranging from 35g to 80g. This allows you to customize your keyboard to your specific typing and gaming needs.

There are also a number of benefits to using Kailh optical switches for gaming. In addition to their speed and accuracy, they offer a number of features that can enhance your gaming experience. For example, Kailh’s Box switches have a square stem and a dustproof housing, which can help prevent dust and debris from entering the switch and causing issues. They also offer a “Hot Swap” feature, which allows you to easily swap out switches without having to desolder them from the PCB.

In terms of aesthetics, Kailh optical switches offer a number of options to choose from. They come in a variety of colors, including traditional black and white, as well as more eye-catching options like pink, purple, and green. This allows you to customize the look of your keyboard to match your personal style.

Overall, Kailh optical switches are a great choice for those looking to upgrade their mechanical keyboard. They offer a number of benefits, including speed, durability, versatility, and improved gaming performance. If you’re looking for a high-quality switch that will enhance your typing and gaming experience, Kailh optical switches are definitely worth considering.

While Kailh optical switches offer a number of benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks to consider. One potential issue is cost. Because they are a newer technology, optical switches tend to be more expensive than traditional mechanical switches. This can be a barrier for some users who are looking to upgrade their keyboard on a budget.

Another potential issue is compatibility. Not all keyboards are compatible with optical switches, so you’ll need to make sure that your keyboard is compatible before you make the switch. Some keyboards may require a specific type of switch or have a limited number of switch options, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

Finally, some users may not like the feel of optical switches. While they offer a number of actuation forces and styles, they may not feel the same as traditional mechanical switches. This can be a personal preference, and some users may need to try out different switches to find the one that best fits their needs.

Despite these potential drawbacks, Kailh optical switches are still a popular choice among gamers and enthusiasts. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for a high-quality switch that offers faster actuation and improved durability, Kailh optical switches are definitely worth considering.


About the Author

Dan was initially only focused around gaming reviews and other content back in 2019ish on this platform. Since then he has decided to focus on the hardware and software side of things instead of just the games themselves. He has been focused on PC gaming and wants to give back to his community as much as possible.