Behind the scenes #190

Keyboard projects, tips, quick news, keyboard art, in the mailbox, meetups, vendors, discounts.

Hey, what's up everyone!

Welcome back for another recap and behind-the-scenes write-up.

If you are new to kbd.news, you can read how this started out and what this is all about nowadays. If you like what you see, subscribe to the newsletter (free) and donate some bucks to keep this otherwise free and ad-free project alive.

Some posts worth sharing

• Hmm. It's been a while – there just wasn't enough content for a newsletter lately. You've probably seen this already, but just in case: here's my recent switch market overview featuring March's top picks, based on real sales data provided by vendors and manufacturers.

• This latest revision of Un Kyu Lee's Micro Journal sports a paper-like display and a more traditional keyboard compared to previous versions.

• The open-source Actually XT by nearestexit features a true XT layout.

• A 56-key split keyboard using low-profile Redragon switches: Muikku58 by Juho T.

• JCam's PickPocket is a 36-key hotswappable Bluetooth split keyboard.

• Nikita Shirokov released his Lapka, a 36-key low-pro split keyboard with uniform splay.

• An open-source 68-key low-profile split keyboard by Andreas Tacke: Nomad.

• A 36-keys low-profile unibody split keyboard designed for portability: Gamma Omega by unspecworks.

• The Protractor is a low-profile unibody ortho keyboard with adjustable typing angle.

• The HE60 is an open-source 60% Hall-effect keyboard PCB by peppapig.

TIPS

• The KEA profile keycaps have new flavors. There is now a Choc-spaced version, along with some thumb variants, for more customization. Shared by Claude from Kea Workshop.

• Based on the original Portable Keyboard Layout (PKL) by Máté Farkas (I've been using this tool for many years on Windows for non-programmable keyboards), DreymaR released the latest, v1.4.2 EPKL (EPiKaL PKL).

• Ultra Short Throw – Rob Cameron aka cannikinn managed to shorten both the bottom-out travel and topout travel in Kailh low-pro switches by adding ball bearings.

Closed-source, commercial, WIP, etc.

• QK Duo, the first split keyboard by Qwertykeys.

• TEX Prototype Ergo with trackpoint. Soon on Kickstarter.

• Get naked handwired concept by SfBattleBeagle.

• WIP: Stenowing28 by Flexyjerkov.

• Clawtype is a custom wearable chorded keyboard (and mouse) by akavel.

• Xlice – An Alice layout keyboard by wind x alice with three flavors: standard, normal numpad, southpaw numpad.

• Dry Studio Black Diamond 75 RT: leaf springs, Hall-effect switches, cool case.

• TestDrive Fifi by jrussellsmyth aka LockPickingCoder. A series of handwired projects to test layouts before buying.

• SkinnyPete32. A handwired split with keywell – by Stephan (Rollercole) Moller.

• Another monoblock split by gwirn/boring-beaver: the handwired Hedgehawk comes in a tented case.

• Kinesis mWave – the familiar "sculpt" design in wireless flavor with mechanical switches (Gateron low-pro).

• Two handwired Cornes stuck together, with an Azoteq TPS45 trackpad in the middle: Shio by adachinkovsky.

• A custom prototype by No-Series-4301. Inspired by Teenage Engineering and the Work Louder Board.

• ermbkbd aka "Erik's Monoblock Keyboard" is a 3D-printed, handwired project with encoders and a mini macropad in the middle.

Keyboard art

• Rain2's latest abomination – "angering both diagonal and straight users".

• Hand-sewn deskmat matching the GMK Indigo keycap set – by intuifin.

• Ahem. Solid brass Le Chiffre by Monkeycrunk.

• Capzine metal artisans by Winmix Production. With hand-adjustable calendar keys, just to name the most extreme variant.

• Nics.tek Hesper64 with physical "dual-action" switches? Art column because I'm not sure if this is an actual product. :)

Weekly Diderot effect

• This food grade keyboard silicon mold was part of the April 1st posts, but it does exist as a pre-order/group buy. Let's make keyboards out of chocolate, wax, gelatin, etc.

Donations

It seems the effects of misguided US policies are starting to take a real financial toll. Some long-time donations have been canceled, some recurring donations declined this month – probably a sign of empty balances. Anyway, help me out if you can afford.

• A new supporter: Andrew M. Thanks a lot!
• A new recurring donation set up by Ikasaya. Thank you!

• As always, many thanks to my awesome regular supporters and everyone who helped this project thus far.

For all the donation options check out the donation page!

Meetup database

As always, this meetup database serves as both a calendar and an archive, so feel free to send me upcoming events or even ones from the recent past to make this collection as comprehensive as possible.

Upcoming meetups

• Berlin Mechanical Keyboards & Input Devices Meetup, April 28, Berlin, Germany

Recently added

• Berlin Mechanical Keyboards & Input Devices Meetup, May 26, Berlin, Germany

Vendors & Discounts

Feel free to use the KBDNEWS discount code at 173 keyboard shops! And do not hesitate to report any issues – like Edward did earlier. Thanks! :)

New shops and updates to the database of keyboard vendors this past two weeks:

• Mecha Malaysia offered you a 5% discount (KBDNEWS). They have a physical store, feel free to check them out!
• ktechs.store (Singapore) offered 50% off your first deskmat order. (Another physical store you can visit!)
• The Pantheonkeys (Singapore) discount is back (3%).
• Asian Joy Co (US) added.
• Dry Studio (Hong Kong) added.
• WinMix Production (China) added.
• Cherry is moving its switch production to China.

The restructuring concept includes, among other measures, the complete discontinuation of switch production at the Auerbach site and its transfer to a partner in China.

• Sorry, I'm not going to read this way too long post by Ryan Norbauer about selling half of his business to investment firm Tiny. Basically, this partnership allows Ryan to focus on his creative vision, and to maintain the brand's unique identity.
• There was an issue with a rouge Meletrix employee account sending out scam emails. Those who were affected are eligible for a $20 no-minimum discount.

Developments

• Some of you were looking for filtered lists with newly released switches only, so I've added a "sort by newest" option. However, with unknown release dates for many older switch models, only about 100 of them are listed properly this way at the moment.

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That's all for today. Thanks for checking by. As always: Keep learning and building!

Until next time,
Tamás

Best-selling keyboard switches of March, 2025

In this month's overview of community-favorite mechanical switches, here are March's top picks, based on real sales data provided by vendors and manufacturers.

(Cover: Akko Botany switches shot by StacksKB.)

Hey fellow switch enthusiasts! Many shops have gotten back to me with their top lists and other sales statistics, so let's continue our series highlighting the community's favorite switch models! This time, we're diving into March's best-selling switches. Discussion over at r/mk if you'd like to share your experiences or opinion.

Summary (updated): 18 contributors from all around the globe, representing almost 1 million switches sold, with 125 switch models mentioned and 18 new switch models appearing first in the top lists.

The article is quite long, feel free to jump to the list of contributors, to my market overview, the aggregated top10 list, the shooting stars, the detailed results by shops, or to the disclaimer, aggregation rules used by the algorithm, or my closing thoughts with new features and developments.

Switch testers

Many of you asked for switch testers. While I'm not a merchant myself, Clackify (US) specializes in exactly that – custom switch testers. Give them a shot. Or there's Unikeys (CN) with a massive selection, and also Monacokeys (DE) and CoffeeKeys (IT) in the EU. Other shops offer more specific switch testers too, e.g. Beaverkeys (CA) or Keebz N Cables (AU). In addition, SwitchTest.shop is a relatively new service – for US customers only.

PSA

I’ve added some new features to the switch database – now listing more than 300 switch models. Most importantly, you can now sort the database and filtered lists by price. This function uses the lowest in-stock price across all the shops involved in the project. (Though this may not be very useful for US folks these days.)

Contributors

Welcome StacksKB, first-time data provider, representing India!

And of course many thanks to all the shops who contributed this month! Detailed stats are mandatory now since exact sales volumes (rather than mere rankings) make life easier and the aggregated list more accurate. Thank you for your confidence on behalf of the community – we all know how sensitive this data is.

Clicking the links takes you to the individual top lists:

MonacoKeys (DE), BeaverKeys (CA), Mechboards (UK), Lume Keebs (US), SerpentKeys (UK), Clackify (US), UniKeys (CN), Ikasaya (US), Keebz N Cables (AU), The Thocc Exchange (UK), AKKO EU (CN), Coffeekeys (IT), StacksKB (IN), Mechanical Keyboards (US), YourKBD (CN), Gateron (CN), TALPKEYBOARD (JP), CandyKeys (DE).

General market trends

Based on the sales volumes provided, I can identify some interesting trends: e.g. after many stores reporting significantly lower sales last time, the overall sales trend for the past month shows a noticeable rebound. An overwhelming majority of our contributing vendors reported growing sales figures, while 15% experienced stable performance, and only 23% saw a decline compared to the previous month. This marks a positive shift following last month’s clear slowdown, suggesting renewed interest and momentum in the market.

In addition, after months of linear hegemony, with March came the time of tactile switches. Many shops mentioned this observation independently. Half of the best-sellers at Monacokeys, BeaverKeys and Lume Keebs were tactiles, claiming the top or even top two positions. Mechboards? Sunsets at the top. 4 out of 10 tactiles at Ikasaya, Thocc Exchange, and StacksKB. The aggregated top10 features five tactiles too. Lastly, the fact that 80 percent(!) of Clackify's top list consists of tactiles might hint at some interesting trends for the future as well.

Novelties & Database updates

Several new-old switch models have been added to the database, and I had the opportunity to try some of them – thanks to Coffeekeys!

Riccardo and Tommaso sent me this very nice 20-switch tester with a cool acrylic tester base with lid, featuring their newly stocked Gateron Magnetic Jade Ruby and Green Dragon switches.

Some notable additions to the database last month:

• Gateron EF Silent Yellow appears at Coffeekeys.
• BSUN Olive and Aflion Thunder Shadow made it to beaverkey's top10 for the first time.
• HMX Cowboy at Lume Keebs – making it to the top 10 even as a pre-sale offer.
• The Keebhut Tropical Waters V3 at SerpentKeys.
• Gateron X debuted at mechanicalkeyboards.com.
• As always, lots of new and exciting models at Unikeys: Siliworks X HMX Sonja HC, OWlab Ti HE magnetic, and Keygeek Cyan as best sellers.
• StacksKB, as a new contributor, added KTT Cabbage Tofu, Akko's CS Crystal Silver, and CS Crystal Wine Red to the mix.
• Another new Akko contender was the AKKO V3 Crystal Pro, listed by their most responsive branch: Akko EU.
• Gateron Green Apple at Candykeys.

For even more new mentions, take a look at the lists below.

Results

March's Top 10 – aggregated

Beside this Top10 feel free to check out the Top 300 list too. (About the ranking: switch models appearing in multiple shop lists are prioritized over high sales in a single shop.)

1		Gateron Oil King linear	buy
2		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	buy
3		Gateron Quinn tactile	buy
4		Kailh Deep Sea Silent Mini White/Islet Low-Profile silent linear	buy
5		Akko Penguin Silent silent tactile	buy
6		TTC Bluish White (V2) Silent silent tactile	buy
7		Gateron Smoothie linear	buy
8		Outemu Silent Lemon/Lime V3 silent tactile	buy
9		Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear	buy
10		Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear	buy

As you'll see, there's not much overlapping in the individual shop lists, and because of the relatively few repetitions, it's no surprise that the well-known, widely available, recurring models made it into the aggregated list above.

Anyway, here is a more interesting list: the shooting stars.

Shooting stars

These are the switches with the highest gain in rank from February to March.

1		Gateron Magnetic Jade Pro Hall-effect	83	buy
2		TTC Venus linear	56	buy
3		Sillyworks x Gateron Type R tactile	53	buy
4		Akko Lavender Purple Pro V3 tactile	52	buy
5		HMX Xinhai (heavy) linear	45	buy
6		Akko Mirror linear	45	buy
7		Gazzew U4 Black silent tactile	44	buy
8		Outemu Feather silent tactile	39	buy
9		Akko Cream Blue Pro V3 tactile	35	buy
10		Kailh Choc (V1) Brown tactile	33	buy

And now let's take a look at the individual lists.

MonacoKeys (Germany)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

Here is the collection of Monaco's best sellers so you can find them all at once.

HMX Canglan V3 and Outemu Feather silent tactile have been added this month and already made a good start. The HMX Canglan V3 are even better than the Canglan V2 if you ask me and the Feather is the newest switch added to Outemu's silent lineup – Michael.

1		Outemu Silent Lemon/Lime V3 silent tactile	2	€0.38	buy
2		Outemu Silent Honey Peach V3 silent linear	2	€0.38	buy
3		HMX Canglan V3 linear	new	€0.42	buy
4		Neo Oat linear	-3	€0.32	buy
5		MMD Princess Tactile V4 tactile	-	€0.34	buy
6		Outemu Cream Yellow Pro silent tactile	-4	€0.31	buy
7		Akko Penguin Silent silent tactile	new	€0.42	buy
8		Gateron Smoothie linear	1	€0.37	buy
9		Outemu Feather silent tactile	new	€0.45	buy
10		Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear	new	€0.37	buy

BeaverKeys (Canada)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

March was the month of the tactiles at BeaverKeys with Gateron Baby Kangaroo V2 and Gateron Quinn claiming the first and second spot on the list. Remarkably, 5 out of the 10 best selling switches this month were tactiles. The love for tactiles at BeaverKeys will continue as I'm looking forward to Akko Cilantro (manufactured by HMX) arriving later in April. This is one of HMXs first tactile switches and given their track record, I'm sure they will deliver a great switch for the tactile gang! – Peter.

1		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	new	0.85CAD	buy
2		Gateron Quinn tactile	1	0.85CAD	buy
3		Gateron Oil King linear	-1	0.87CAD	buy
4		Akko Mirror linear	5	0.40CAD	buy
5		BSUN Holy Panda V2 tactile	new	0.60CAD	buy
6		KEYGEEK X MZ Y3 linear	2	0.37CAD	buy
7		BSUN Olive tactile	new	0.65CAD	buy
8		KTT Strawberry V2 linear	new	0.70CAD	buy
9		Durock Ice King Linear linear	new	0.75CAD	buy
10		Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile	new	0.70CAD	buy

Mechboards (UK)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

Notes: Sunsets claim the top spot as we ran out of Ambients. Oil Kings reclaim their spot as king of the MX switches. The Choc Red and Brown switches are much higher this month as they were purchased often in our March Madness sale – Ben.

1		lowprokb Choc (V1) Sunset tactile	1	£0.85	buy
2		Gateron Oil King linear	new	£0.65	buy
3		Gateron Smoothie linear	1	£0.30	buy
4		Kailh Choc (V1) Red linear	3	£0.55	buy
5		lowprokb Choc (V1) Ambients Twilight silent linear	-4	£1.00	buy
6		Kailh Choc (V1) Brown tactile	4	£0.55	buy
7		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	1	£0.55	buy
8		Gateron Ink Black V2 linear	new	£0.75	buy
9		Alpaca V2 linear	-3	£0.55	buy
10		lowprokb Choc (V1) Ambients Nocturnal silent linear	-5	£0.95	buy

Lume Keebs (US)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

New Switches on the Rise: Some of our latest switches have quickly gained popularity, including the MMD Vivian, Neo Keygeek Oat, and the HMX Cowboy. Trends & Insights: We’re seeing a notable rise in demand for silent switches. Additionally, pre-lubed switches continue to be a favorite, with users looking for a smoother stock experience right out of the box. Behind the Scenes: We’re expanding our offerings with more switches, keycaps, and keyboards. On the content side, we’re ramping up sound tests, switch comparisons, and build guides to help the community stay informed. – Emily.

1		GAZZEW Boba U4T tactile	-	$0.65	buy
2		TTC Bluish White (V2) Silent silent tactile	7	$0.53	buy
3		MMD Vivian linear	new	$0.35	buy
4		MMD Matcha Ice Cream V3 linear	new	$0.30	buy
5		TTC Frozen V2 Silent (TTC Silent Glacier) linear	-3	$0.53	buy
6		Kailh Cocoa linear	-	$0.35	buy
7		Durock Ice King Tactile tactile	-3	$0.42	buy
8		Durock Silent T1 - Shrimp silent tactile	new	$0.56	buy
9		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	-2	$0.55	buy
10		HMX x EILAB West Cowboy linear	new	$0.35	buy

SerpentKeys (UK)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

Tactile taking the top spot?! Yep you read that right, it didn’t take long for the Hojicha Reserve from Invokeys to climb back up the list, if you’re a tactile enjoyer you should definitely give them a go! Really great to see the Tropical Waters V3 making an appearance as well, one of personal favourites at the moment – Ollie.

1		Invokeys Hojicha Reserve tactile	new	£0.47	buy
2		Gateron Oil King linear	-	£0.60	buy
3		Invokeys x Alas Daydreamer silent tactile	-	£0.60	buy
4		HMX Xinhai (heavy) linear	new	£0.33	buy
5		Invokeys Matcha Reserve linear	4	£0.47	buy
6		Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear	-5	£0.23	buy
7		Keebhut Tropical Waters V3 linear	new	£0.44	buy
8		HMX Caramel Pudding linear	-4	£0.33	buy
9		Invokeys x Alas Nightshade silent linear	new	£0.60	buy
10		KTT Strawberry V2 linear	-3	£0.38	buy

Clackify (US)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

Switches overall remain similar this month. I did want to point out, however, that there were some standouts that did not quite make the top 10 cut. Gateron Type R, Huano Sakura, and Invokeys Hojicha Reserve all saw big jumps in popularity with good reason. I'd recommend trying some of them out! - Calvin.

1		TTC Bluish White (V2) Silent silent tactile	-		buy
2		Gateron Oil King linear	2		buy
3		GAZZEW U4T tactile	-1		buy
4		Gateron Quinn tactile	1		buy
5		Gazzew U4 Black silent tactile	5		buy
6		TTC Frozen V2 Silent (TTC Silent Glacier) linear	-		buy
7		Akko Penguin Silent silent tactile	-		buy
8		Everglide Aqua King (V3) 62g linear	1		buy
9		Gateron Beer tactile	new		buy
10		KTT Matcha tactile	new		buy

UniKeys (China)
[7% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

We got some very exciting new releases for March. All of them are instock and ready to ship: e.g. the Keygeek Matcha Pudding and Keygeek Little Ghost. Besides the new products, a few very popular switches also got restocked including HMX Sonja, Gateron Type R tactile, HMX Snow Crash, Keygeek Cyan, Keygeek Oat, etc. – Dashan.

1		HMX Snow Crash linear	new	$0.29	buy
2		Siliworks X HMX Sonja linear	-1	$0.35	buy
3		Sillyworks x Gateron Type R tactile	5	$0.44	buy
4		Siliworks X HMX Sonja HC linear	new	$0.35	buy
5		UNIKEYS x HMX Sugar Rush linear	-1	$0.29	buy
6		OWlab Ti HE linear, Hall-effect	new	$0.48	buy
7		Keygeek Higanbana linear	2	$0.35	buy
8		Keygeek Cyan linear	new	$0.25	buy
9		KEYGEEK X MZ Y3 linear	-4	$0.21	buy
10		HMX Canglan V3 linear	-8	$0.35	buy

Ikasaya (US)
[10% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

1		KTT Kang White V3 linear	-	$0.26	buy
2		Gateron Smoothie linear	-	$0.30	buy
3		Gateron Quinn tactile	2	$0.59	buy
4		Gateron Oil King linear	-1	$0.65	buy
5		Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear	-1	$0.25	buy
6		Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 linear	new	$0.25	buy
7		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	94	$0.55	buy
8		Gateron EF EverFree Grayish tactile	new	$0.27	buy
9		Gateron Ink Black V2 linear	new	$0.96	buy
10		Gateron Mini i tactile	new	$0.55	buy

Keebz N Cables (Australia)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

In March, Keygeek Blue Cheese continues to be a crowd favourite. We've sold out and are waiting for V2 to finish production. Our in-house range of switches are all in our Top 10 this month as we have introduced permanent price drops of 11-56% as we get ready for the release of our 2025 switches, two tactiles – Icey Ice MangoBerry and Long Mac Clacked Up – Jason.

1		Keebz N Cables Ice Kachang V2 tactile	5	0.45AUD	buy
2		Keebz N Cables x BSUN Taro N Sweet Potato linear	-1	0.67AUD	buy
3		Keygeek Blue Cheese linear	-1	0.60AUD	buy
4		HMX Noire linear	new	0.58AUD	buy
5		Keebz N Cables Ice Kachang Linear linear	new	0.30AUD	buy
6		Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear	new	0.66AUD	buy
7		HMX YG Macchiato linear	new	0.50AUD	buy
8		KTT Kang White V3 linear	-1	0.28AUD	buy
9		HMX Ice Cendol linear	new	0.35AUD	buy
10		Keebz N Cables Mountain King tactile	new	0.40AUD	buy

The Thocc Exchange (UK)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

No surprises seeing Cherry MX Oranges and HMX Hades leading the pack again this month! Zuoce switches are really gaining popularity along with the Outemu x XCJZ Butterfly silent linears. We have a HUGE stock drop happening this month and Typeplus Stabs in stock – Matty.

1		Cherry MX2A "Hirose" Orange linear	-	£0.30	buy
2		HMX Hades V2 linear	1	£0.35	buy
3		Keygeek Jasmine Milk Green linear	new		buy
4		TTC Venus linear	6	£0.50	buy
5		Outemu Cream Yellow Pro silent tactile	new	£0.30	buy
6		Zuoce Litchi Milk tactile	new	£0.20	buy
7		Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear	new	£0.33	buy
8		DK Creamery - Red Velvet tactile	new	£0.40	buy
9		XCJZ x JKDK Butterfly silent linear	new	£0.35	buy
10		Cherry MX2A Brown tactile	new	£0.30	buy

AKKO EU (China)
[10% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

The Cilantro switches are Akko’s first deep-clack tactile switches and are set to officially launch this week – Albert.

1		Akko Penguin Silent silent tactile	-	€0.37	buy
2		Akko Rosewood linear	-	€0.37	buy
3		Akko Fairy (silent) silent linear	1	€0.37	buy
4		Akko Creamy Purple Pro V3 tactile	2	€0.26	buy
5		Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 linear	-2	€0.24	buy
6		Akko Cream Blue Pro V3 tactile	-1	€0.24	buy
7		Akko Lavender Purple Pro V3 tactile	-	€0.26	buy
8		Akko x MonsGeek Green Fog linear	new	€0.32	buy
9		Akko Crystal Pro V3 linear	new	€0.40	buy
10		Akko Creamy Cyan clicky	-1	€0.29	buy

Coffeekeys (Italy)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

As you can see, WS Morandi remains our best-selling item. Sales remained stable across most categories. As noted last month, we added the Gateron Magnetic Jade Ruby and Gateron Magnetic Green Dragon to our inventory in the magnetic switch category, along with the Gateron EF Silent Yellow for silent switches. We also introduced a switch base for the switch tester which are going to come in hand for those willing to test our switches. Magnetic switches showed moderate demand, while silent switches performed better. Low-profile switches also maintained a strong presence – Tommaso.

1		Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear	-	€0.39	buy
2		Gateron Quinn tactile	-	€0.52	buy
3		Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear	7	€0.29	buy
4		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	4	€0.45	buy
5		BSUN Light Sakura silent linear	new	€0.32	buy
6		Gateron North Pole linear	new	€0.29	buy
7		Gateron KS-33 Low Profile Brown tactile	-1	€0.24	buy
8		Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear	-4	€0.32	buy
9		Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 linear	new	€0.25	buy
10		Gateron EF EverFree Silent Yellow silent linear	new	€0.33	buy

StacksKB (India)

Tactiles dominate the ranking, but that also has to do with there being a lot more variety for linears with minor variations when compared to tactiles – speculates Aditya. So sales get split between the different HMX linears for example, with only GAME1989 coming in the ranking.

Our best sellers from brands other than Akko were OOS in March, so Akko takes 8/10 spots. Otherwise we would expect more variety in the rankings. If we had stock, Gateron Smoothie, Sea Salt Smoothie, Keygeek Purple Dawn, TTC Bluish Whites, and KTT Kang Whites would likely figure in the rankings. Crystal Wine Red and Crystal Silver sneak in due to them discounted heavily for clearance.

1		Akko Cream Blue Pro V3 tactile	₹20	buy
2		Akko Creamy Purple Pro V3 tactile	₹22	buy
3		Akko Lavender Purple Pro V3 tactile	₹22	buy
4		Akko Rosewood linear	₹31	buy
5		Akko CS Crystal Silver linear	₹38	buy
6		Akko Cream Yellow Pro V3 linear	₹20	buy
7		Akko CS Crystal Wine Red linear	₹33	buy
8		HMX Game 1989 linear	₹34	buy
9		KTT Cabbage Tofu linear	₹23	buy
10		Akko Penguin Silent silent tactile	₹31	buy

Mechanical Keyboards (US)
[5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

1		Cherry MX2A Silent Red (plate-mount RGB) linear	$0.50	buy
2		Gateron X linear	$0.35	buy
3		Gateron Oil King linear	$0.65	buy
4		Neo Oat linear	$0.28	buy
5		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	$0.60	buy
6		Cherry MX2A Brown RGB tactile	$0.40	buy
7		Cherry MX2A Brown tactile	$0.40	buy
8		Gateron Milky Yellow Pro linear	$0.26	buy
9		Cherry MX2A Silent Red (PCB-mount RGB) silent linear	$0.40	buy
10		Cherry Nixie linear	$0.42	buy

YourKBD (China)
[7% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

1		Kailh Deep Sea Silent Mini White/Islet Low-Profile silent linear	-	$0.59	buy
2		Kailh Choc (V1) Pro Pink linear	-	$0.55	buy
3		Chosfox White Fox V2 linear	-	$0.30	buy
4		Chosfox & HMX Hanami Dango V2 linear	-	$0.36	buy
5		Hanami Dango Green tactile	-	$0.39	buy
6		Chosfox Voyager V2 tactile	-	$0.54	buy
7		Outemu Silent Lemon/Lime V3 silent tactile	-	$0.32	buy
8		TTC Frozen V2 Silent (TTC Silent Glacier) linear	-	$0.68	buy
9		Kailh Deep Sea Silent Pro Box Whale silent tactile	-	$0.55	buy
10		Outemu Silent Honey Peach V3 silent linear	-	$0.24	buy

Gateron (China)
[10% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code]

1		Gateron Magnetic Jade Pro Hall-effect	$0.80	buy
2		Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile	$0.60	buy
3		Gateron Smoothie linear	$0.30	buy
4		Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile	$0.28	buy
5		Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear	$0.24	buy
6		Gateron Melodic clicky	$0.65	buy
7		Gateron KS-33 Low Profile 2.0 Banana tactile	$0.28	buy
8		Gateron Quinn tactile	$0.60	buy
9		Gateron Magnetic Jade Max Hall-effect	$1.00	buy
10		Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall-effect	$0.80	buy

TALPKEYBOARD (Japan)

Talpkeyboard is taking a break. The shop is scheduled to reopen after mid-May – Yousuke.

1		Kailh Deep Sea Silent Mini White/Islet Low-Profile silent linear	-	¥96	buy
2		Kailh Deep Sea Silent Mini Brown/Whale Low-Profile silent tactile	new	¥90	buy
3		TTC Frozen V2 Silent (TTC Silent Glacier) linear	-1	¥130	buy
4		Tecsee Pudding Medium linear	2	¥64	buy
5		Kailh Deep Sea Silent MINI Pink Island silent linear	2	¥116	buy
6		Kailh Deep Sea Silent Pro Box Islet silent linear	-2	¥96	buy
7		Durock Mocha Chocolate tactile	-2	¥54	buy
8		Durock Ice King Linear linear	-5	¥80	buy
9		Kailh Choc V2 Black Cloud low-pro tactile	new	¥92	buy
10		Kailh Deep Sea PRO Pink Islet Silent silent linear	-	¥96	buy

CandyKeys (Germany)

People are starting to be wary of prices more and more than ever, cheaper switches generally do better as the quality to price ratio has gone up dramatically. Stock around the world seems to have a influence on the lists here too… – David.

1		Gateron Oil King linear	-		buy
2		Cherry MX Ergo Clear tactile	1		buy
3		Gateron Green Apple tactile	new		buy
4		HMX YG Macchiato linear	new		buy
5		HMX Xinhai (light) linear	new		buy
6		Gateron Magnetic Jade Pro Hall-effect	new		buy
7		Outemu Feather silent tactile	-2		buy
8		Outemu Silent Lemon/Lime V3 silent tactile	new		buy
9		HMX Cloud (42g) linear	new		buy
10		Gateron Smoothie Silver linear	new		buy

Disclaimer

Keep in mind that most of the time I'm not in a position to verify the validity and accuracy of the data provided by shop runners. Some of these lists come automatically from their databases, with screenshots, however, some were put together manually. I asked for the numbers of the previous month, but some shops query the past 30 days, etc.

That said, take everything with a grain of salt, but I hope this compilation will still hold some value, highlighting trends, giving you some tips, and as a snapshot of the zeitgeist it will be also interesting to look back at on the long run.

About the algorithm

While contributors provide exact numbers, standardization, normalization, and other techniques remain essential to come up with a ranked list due to some remaining inconsistencies, unfortunately.

The current system:

• incorporates sales volume as a percentage – to mitigate the dominance of a single huge vendor
• rewards switches present in multiple lists – to compensate the effect of some switches being offered in a single shop only, thus reflecting availability
• incorporates the previous months with decaying weights – to rank the products that are in a tie.

As with all such statistical methods, if we were to tamper with the algorithm, it would produce completely different results.

Another source of confusion and inconsistency is the arrival of belated lists. When such datasets come in, I update the database but often not the already published article. While I add the specific list to the database, I don’t update the overall rankings in the write-up.

Final thoughts

Hey, I hope this write-up was useful to some of you because, again, it took me about 19-20 hours to complete. Yep, all this despite the heavy automation wherever possible. (That said, this one involved some developments I can reuse later, so not all of that time went into compiling the article itself.)

Again, the new models were both the best and most challenging part of the process: researching these new switches, adding them to the database, and often diving into desperate investigations about missing actuation forces, pre-travels and whatnot. (I wonder why people don't indicate the tactile force of tactile switches, where operation weight is pretty irrelevant.) It's time-consuming but also the most exciting aspect – discovering all the fresh, shiny, and innovative releases.

Once again, I learned a lot about vendors, switches, and managing the ever-evolving switch database while compiling this article.

I hope you enjoyed reading this piece as much as I enjoyed putting it together! Feel free to use and reference this post and the switch database. Spread the word so it makes sense for me to invest all this time and effort.

• Check out the switch database – with almost 300 switch models – with specs, photos, vendors, prices.
• Some new tweaks, e.g. I started to add sound test videos, and you can order the list by price now. (However, the latest temper tantrum of the dumbest president of all time renders this pretty useless for US folks.)
• All the switch icons are part of a single image sprite now – to improve loading time. (You may hit Ctrl+Shift+R if your browser cached an older version, resulting in some blank icons.)
• More features already implemented earlier: Search by keyword, filter by tags. Even permalinks to custom lists like silent tactiles or light, lubed linears with dust-proof stem and light diffuser. ;)
• Finally, the archive of all the monthly switch compilations is available too, e.g. the previous, February top list as a reference.

Thanks for reading this far, see you next month!

Micro Journal Rev.7: Kindred Gift

This latest revision of Un Kyu Lee's Micro Journal features a paper-like display and a more traditional keyboard.

Un Kyu Lee's (aka unkyulee) Micro Jounal is a distraction-free device for writers. More precisely: a series of designs. The latest model, rev. 7, features e-ink display and a more traditional keyboard.

I aimed to create a specialized writing device, focusing on the tactile experience of mechanical keyboards. This device would be portable, with a compact form factor, designed to enhance the writing process in a focused environment. The goal was to provide a distraction-free writing experience, allowing users to immerse themselves fully in their creative work – Un Kyu Lee.

Many have asked for a more traditional keyboard layout, and this version delivers. Powered by the ESP32-S3, it turns on instantly. Getting you into the writing flow in just a flicker of a second.

Features

Resources

• https://github.com/unkyulee/micro-journal
• https://www.tindie.com/stores/unkyulee/
• https://buymeacoffee.com/unkyulee

Actually XT

The open-source Actually XT by nearestexit features a true XT layout.

Designed by taylorswiftttttt (aka taylorswift22/nearestexit), the Actually XT is a keyboard prototype in a nice milled alu case, featuring an authentic looking IBM XT layout.

Tired of keyboards being called "XT" when all they have is two macro columns on the left? Wishing for an authentic XT Layout experience? Look no further! – nearestexit.

Designed in Onshape and EasyEDA.

Features

• 83-86 keys
• MX, soldered
• top-mount PCB
• on-board MCU (STM32F072CBT6)
• unified daughterboard
• milled case
• OG Cherry switches (NCR G80-0577)

Resources

• https://github.com/nearestexit/actually-XT
• Case source (Onshape)
• PCB source](EasyEDA)

Muikku58

A 56-key split keyboard using low-profile Redragon switches: Muikku58 by Juho T.

Muikku58 is a RP2040 based 56-key column staggered split keyboard by Juho T. aka Squalius-cephalus, that uses Redragon low profile switches.

I wanted build a budget low profile keyboard, but the biggest problem was how expensive choc switches are. So, I looked for the cheapest low profile switches on the market and came across the “Redragon low profile” switches. Pack of 100 switches cost about 14 euros – Juho.

This split is very similar to the Silakka54, but with two more keys and rotary encoders. "The biggest minus is the lack of hotswap, there are no hotswap sockets for these switches on the market."

Specs

• 56 keys (6x4+4)
• Redragon low-profile switches, soldered
• reversible PCB
• RP2040 Zero controller
• EC11 rotary encoder
• 3D printed case

Build process

Resources

• https://github.com/Squalius-cephalus/muikku_keyboards

PickPocket

JCam's PickPocket is a 36-key hotswappable Bluetooth split keyboard.

PickPocket is a pocket-sized split keyboard by JCam599 aka ParksDevelopment. The board is a revision of the author's 2Pocket, featured earlier.

A couple months back I entered a keyboard contest and made a board which I shared here. I loved that experience but due to the constraints of the contest, both time and size, I made some compromises. I revisited the project and made PickPocket. I have been very happy with the results, using it when I have to go into work, […] Everyone said the color choice made it look like legos – JCam599.

Specs

• 36 keys (5x3+3)
• low-profile Choc switches, hotswap
• reversible PCB
• XIAO nRF52840 controllers
• Bluetooth support between halves and computer
• Pass-through charging
• 3D printed case

Pass-through charging through magnetic push pins means that plugging in the left half and connecting the boards will charge both of them.

Resources

• https://github.com/ParksDevelopment/PickPocket

Lapka

Nikita Shirokov released his Lapka, a 36-key low-pro split keyboard with uniform splay.

Lapka (Лапка) is a small 36-key wireless split by Nikita Shirokov aka braindefender, designer of various popular keycap profiles, e.g. the KLP Lamé.

The Lapka features a uniform splay layout with Choc spacing. The build is diodeless, using direct-pin on SuperMini nRF52840 (nice!nano compatible) controllers.

Wireless ergonomic split keyboard for those who have paws (: – braindefender.

Specs

• 36 keys (5x3+3)
• low-profile Choc switches, soldered
• reversible PCB
• SuperMini nRF52840 controllers
• 3D printed case

Low-profile case: the switches almost touch the table. For now, silicone bumpers are stuck right onto the PCB.

Resources

• https://github.com/braindefender/lapka/

Nomad

An open-source 68-key low-profile split keyboard by Andreas Tacke: Nomad.

The Nomad is a 68-key split keyboard by Andreas Tacke aka fiendie, based in part on Brian Low's Sofle Choc. It uses low profile Kailh Choc v1 switches with hotswap sockets and features per-key RGB lighting via SK6812 Mini-E LEDs. Compared to the Sofle Choc, the nomad offers an additional thumb cluster key, an additional modifier key in the 5th row, and a 7th inner column with 3 keys on each side. An MX version is also available.

I wanted it to be very portable, hence then name and why I started out with the Choc version. I made an MX version to keep on my desk at home but it doesn't take up much space in the backpack either – fiendie_.

Features

• 68 keys (7x5+2-ish)
• hotswap Choc or MX switches (separate PCBs)
• reversible PCB
• RP2040 MCU
• EC12 rotary encoder
• OLED (SSD1306)
• per-key RGB (SK6812 Mini-E LEDs)

Resources

• https://github.com/fiendie/NomadKeyboard

Gamma Omega

A 36-keys low-profile unibody split keyboard designed for portability: Gamma Omega by unspecworks.

The Gamma Omega is a relatively compact 36-key monoblock angled split keyboard, shared by unspecworks/unspecified-work. Created via Ergogen, it was designed for portability and durability while still maintaining comfort.

Portable? It may not be very compact, but you can still just toss it in your bag, right? – unspecworks.

Features

• 36 keys (5x3+3)
• Choc, hotswap, Choc spacing
• splay
• reversible(!) PCB
• Pi Pico RP2040 USB-C controller
• 3D-printed case with integrated plate

Despite being a monoblock split, the PCB is a one-half reversible one, so you have to order two pieces.

Resources

• https://github.com/unspecworks/gamma-omega

Protractor

The Protractor is a low-profile unibody ortho keyboard with adjustable typing angle.

This adjustable-agle monoblock split keyboard, the ortholinear Protractor, was designed and shared by BFB_Workshop, creator of the Compaq'ed ortho replacement PCB for the Cherry G80-11800. While this current project is handwired, the main idea is the 3D-printed hinge mechanism and custom keycaps, both of which are freely available.

Here is my first take on a portable low-profile keyboard. Unlike my previous daily driver, it is flat enough for the table to serve as your palmrest. I've designed the hinge to provide some level of adjustment – BFB.

The keyboard is compatible with regular keycaps (2-layer case). However, it comes with a custom 3D-printed set of low-profile keycaps that allow for a more rigid 3-layer case while maintaining the overall height.

Specs

• 60 keys (6x5 ortho layout)
• Gateron KS-33 switches
• Nice Nano v2
• 3D-printed case and keycaps

Resources

• Files on Printables

HE60 PCB

The HE60 is an open-source 60% Hall-effect keyboard PCB by peppapig.

As already teased earlier, Pontakorn Prasertsuk aka peppapig/peppapighs released the HE60, a 60% Hall-effect PCB with split spacebar support, and a Tsangan bottom row layout.

This is my latest project in my ongoing Hall-effect keyboard obsession. Inspired by open-source projects like GH60, Waffling60, and Macrolev, I created this design with the hope that it will serve as a useful reference for anyone interested in building their own Hall-effect PCB – Pep.

The PCB was developed with a focus on reducing fabrication costs. The current version costs ~80USD for 2 boards using JLCPCB economy PCBA. To achieve this, the author removed many components from previous designs that he found had little to no impact on PCB performance.

The HE60 runs on the libhmk firmware, previously released by Pep. The software latency (from input detection to USB packet transmission) averaged around 0.4ms – "not bad for a PCB polling at 1000Hz", according to the designer.

Specs

• 61-65 keys, Tsangan bottom row
• split spacebar support
• HE switches
• on-board STM32F446RET6 MCU
• Support for GH60 tray mount cases (KBDfans Tofu60 Redux, Holy60)
• libhmk firmware
• hmkconf web-based configurator

Resources

• https://github.com/peppapighs/HE60