The Ashkeebs Alexandrite and Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the linear breed. They both feature Nylon bottom housing, standard stem shape, - g actuation, - mm pre-travel, however, they come with different top housing (HPE vs Nylon), stem material (UPE vs UMPWPE), bottom-out force (58 g vs 55 g). That said, they are quite similar. Let's check out this side-by-side specs rundawn with details, availability -- and even current prices -- to figure out which one fits you the best!
The Ashkeebs Alexandrite is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with HPE top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and UPE stem (standard shape). The bottom-out weight is 58g. Designed by Ashkeebs. Manufactured by Tecsee. | The Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx is a linear standard MX mechanical switch with Nylon top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and UMPWPE stem (standard shape). It features a 19.5 mm single-stage spring. The 55g bottom-out occurs at 4mm. Silicone inserts in the bottom housing act as switch films to improve the sound and feel. No factory lubing. Designed by Swagkeys. Manufactured by Gateron. |
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| Name | Ashkeebs Alexandrite | Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx |
|---|---|---|
| Type | linear | linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | HPE | Nylon |
| Bottom housing | Nylon | Nylon |
| Stem material | UPE | UMPWPE |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | - | 19.5 mm single-stage |
| Actuation | - g | - g |
| Bottom-out | 58 g | 55 g |
| Pre-travel | - mm | - mm |
| Total travel | - mm | 4 mm |
| Lube | unknown | No factory lubing. |
| Designer | Ashkeebs | Swagkeys |
| Manufacturer | Tecsee | Gateron |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that availability of the Ashkeebs Alexandrite and Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx switches is exactly the same:
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering Ashkeebs Alexandrite and Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx switches. When accepted, the prices indicated already include the discount - use the KBDNEWS coupon code at checkout to claim your saving!
Prices, discounts, and stock status are checked regularly; however, changes since the last update cannot be ruled out. Everything here is for informational purposes only. Check the product pages for the latest prices!
Ashkeebs Alexandrite sound test | Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx sound test |
No Ashkeebs Alexandrite sound test available. |
Comments on Ashkeebs Alexandrite switches | Comments on Swagkeys x Gateron Onyx switches |
Ashkeebs's third switch that they brought to the world! Just like with their Amethyst and Auralite switches, the Alexandrite continues their gemstone theme that start with the letter A – switchoddities. The Alexandrite linear switch is aimed at mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, modding-friendly system with a good sound profile. The switch design features a housing with an HPE upper and a nylon lower part, combined with a long-pole stem that reduces stem wobble and provides a solid typing feel. The spring is relatively light at approximately 58g, giving the switch a balanced feel between responsiveness and spring tension. The sound is described as "thhocky" and deep, making it attractive for builds focused on sound and tactile feedback. The switch is particularly suitable for keyboards where fine-tuning, sound modification (e.g., lubing, filming) and individual setup are important – InputGear. | Onyx switches are the newest collaboration switch between Swagkeys and Gateron. They are full travel linears that utilize the custom designed molds that have silicone inserts in the bottom housing that act as switch films to improve the sound and feel of the switch. It is similar to the previous SW x Gateron Deeping switch with improved factory lubing and a new stem material that produces a different sound signature. Once lubed (either manually or factory lubed) these are smooth linears with a medium weight spring and a nice loud sound profile. They are available in both unlubed and factory lubed options – Bowl Keyboards. |
