Top 5 clicky switches in 2024
Video version
1. Kailh Box White V2: Value-oriented
The Kailh Box White V2s represent the most traditional approach to clicky switches, serving as the "generics" of popular clickies – think of them as the Kirkland Signature equivalent of Box Jades and Box Navies. These revamped switches use a click bar mechanism, where pressing down activates a nub that hits against the leaf metal, creating their distinctive sound and feel. This design provides a sharper typing experience than traditional click jacket designs.
What makes the Box White V2s particularly appealing is their lighter spring compared to Box Jades and Navies. With a 50g bottom out force (lighter than 87% of all switches), they're much easier to type on for extended periods. At just $3 per 10 switches at Milktooth (a 15% savings), they offer excellent value for those wanting to explore clicky switches.
2. KTT Purple Click: Classic Reborn
KTT's Purple Click switches take a different approach, using a click jacket mechanism – a plastic jacket around the stem that creates the click when it hits the housing. They're spiritually similar to the legendary Cherry MX Blues, but with significant improvements in both feel and sound.
These switches strike a nice balance with their 55g bottom out force, making them lighter than about two-thirds of available switches. Compared to click bar switches, they have a less rigid feel, producing a distinct crunchy sound signature that many users find satisfying. For those familiar with Cherry MX Blues who want something more refined, the Purple Clicks offer a natural progression.
3. TTC Brother: Most Subdued Sound Signature
The TTC Brother switches present a unique solution for those who love clicky switches but need something quieter for shared spaces. Their standout feature is a silicone dampening pad on the bottom of the stem, which mutes the clicky sound while maintaining an exceptional tactile feel. The click remains audible but is much less pronounced than switches like the Box Jades.
Perhaps most impressive is their ultra-light 37g actuation force, making them lighter than 97% of all switches available. This combination of muted clicking and light actuation makes them perfect for both gaming and typing in shared environments. Milktooth offers these switches at a 40% discount, making them an excellent value proposition.
4. Outemu Spring Breeze: Most Interesting Materials
The Outemu Spring Breeze switches distinguish themselves through their unique material choices. Featuring a nylon housing paired with a POM stem – a rare combination in the world of clicky switches – they produce a deeper sound signature than typical clickies. The nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more high-pitched sounds, resulting in a more rounded acoustic profile.
With a 55g bottom out force (matching the Purple Clicks), they sit in a comfortable medium-weight range. Think of them as Purple Clicks with premium materials, offering a click jacket mechanism that feels more tactile than usual. The result is a switch that's incredibly fun to type on without feeling overly clinical like some click bar switches can.
5. Gateron Melodic: Best Overall
The Gateron Melodic switches represent the pinnacle of clicky switch development. They feature a unique mouse-like click mechanism that produces a distinctive sound profile: a chirpy crackle during downstroke followed by a bassy bottom-out. With their 60g bottom-out force, they provide a medium-weight typing experience.
What truly sets the Melodics apart is their perfect factory lubing, resulting in incredibly smooth operation and a refined feel. They almost create their own category, existing somewhere between clicky and tactile switches. While they command a premium price, they offer the most sophisticated clicky experience available – something that has been largely absent from the market.
The Melodics represent a fresh take on clicky switches in a category that has often been overlooked. They incorporate all of Gateron's advances in factory lubing, and their unique sound signature remains pleasant even after extended typing sessions. At Milktooth, you'll find the best pricing on these switches, along with free shipping on orders over $49.
Sound tests are available for all switches mentioned above. If you're interested in tactile switches – which you can think of as clicky switches without the signature clicking sound – check out our companion video on the top tactile switches of 2024.