Best Tactile Switches of 2025

Mechanical switches are at the heart of both the typing feel and sound of a keyboard. Unlike linear switches that offer a smooth keystroke, tactile switches feature a noticeable bump that provides satisfying feedback. Because of the unique tactile feedback, tactile switches have attracted many keyboard enthusiasts. 

Whether you're new to tactile switches or a seasoned fan, this guide will help you find the right Akko switch based on the distinct characteristics of each option.

What Are Tactile Switches?

Tactile switches provide noticeable physical feedback when a key is pressed.  This bump occurs around the actuation point (when the key press is registered), giving users confirmation that the key has been activated without needing to bottom out (press the key all the way down).

Key Parameters of Tactile Switches

Operating Force: The amount of force (measured in gf) required to actuate the switch.  Operating force affects typing heaviness — lower = lighter feel, higher = more resistance.

Pre-Travel: Distance the key travels before actuation is registered. Pre-travel determines responsiveness—shorter = quicker key response.

Total Travel: The full distance a key can travel when pressed down completely. Total travel impacts key bottom-out depth — longer travel can feel deeper or softer.

Tactile Position: The point in the travel where the tactile bump occurs. Tactile position affects when feedback is felt — shorter = earlier bump during press.

Tactile Force:  The peak force required to overcome the tactile bump. Tactile force defines bump intensity — higher = more pronounced feedback.

Key Features of Akko Tactile Switches

1. Widely Tactile Profiles

Akko tactile switches provide multiple options, from soft to crisp, and from light to strong feedback. No matter if you are a beginner or an experienced player, you can find the one that suits your needs.

2. Multiple Sound Profiles

Akko’s tactile switches aren’t limited to a single sound profile. Instead, the different materials and structure design of each one create a unique typing sound.

Just like the Cilantro switch provides a deep clack sound, the Bittersweet switch provides a thocky profile, and the Penguin switch is the silent switch.

3. Thoughtful Engineering

Akko continues to optimize the switch structure to improve the feel and stability.

By adding the dustproof wall to improve stability and durability. By adding the light guide column to improve lighting uniformity for better RGB lighting. And all switches adopt the standard MX 5-pin structure, providing wide compatibility.

4. Factory-lubed for Smoother Keystrokes

All Akko switches come pre-lubricated to reduce noise and friction, offering a smoother and more stable typing experience right out of the box. This not only enhances durability and consistency but also minimizes the need for users to apply additional lubrication.

5. Continuous Innovation

With long-term investment, persistence, and a spirit of continuous innovation, there's always something new to discover. If you're looking to try something different, you'll find a fresh option here.

Akko Best Tactile Switches 2025

Switches	Best For	Sound	Features	Ideal Use
V3 Creamy Purple Pro	Best for Balanced Typing Feel	Light & Soft Thock	Light bump (55gf), short 2.0mm pre-travel, budget-friendly	Daily typing, light tactile users
Cilantro	Best for Snappy Tactile Feedback	Deep Clack	Ultra-short bump (0.2mm), fast response, POM stem	Fast typing, code, precise input
V3 Lavender Purple Pro	Best for Gamers	Moderate Thock	Stronger bump (40gf), dust-proof wall, faster actuation (1.9mm)	Gaming + occasional typing
V3 Cream Blue Pro	Best for Beginners	Clean & Soft Tactile	Moderate bump (45gf), forgiving travel, beginner-friendly design	New mechanical keyboard users
V5 Creamy Blue Pro	Best Smooth Upgraded Feel	Deeper & Polished Thock	PA12 stem, better smoothness, guided light column, refined from V3	Daily use, experienced users
Bittersweet	Best Soft Thocky	Muted & Deep Thock	Light bump like MX Brown, modern materials, long travel	Office, long typing sessions
Penguin	best Silent	Quiet & Soft Thock	65gf tactile force, silent switch design, suitable for quiet environments	Office, shared spaces, night use

Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro Switch: Best Balanced Typing Feel Switch

The Akko V3 creamy purple pro switch is one of our most popular tactile switches. With a total travel of 3.0mm and a pre-travel of 2.0±0.6mm, it offers quick and responsive actuation. The 55±5gf tactile force provides just the right amount of feedback without requiring excessive pressure—perfect for comfortable, everyday typing.

• Operating Force: 30±5gf
• Pre Travel: 2.0±0.6mm
• Total Travel: 3.0mm
• Tactile Travel: 0.5mm
• Tactile Force: 55±5gf

Akko Cilantro Switch: Best Snappy Tactile Feedback Switch

The Akko Cilantro Switch is launched in March 2025. It stands out for its incredibly short tactile position (0.2mm), delivering near-instant feedback as soon as you press the key. Combined with a crisp and sharp bump, it feels almost clicky without the sound. Perfect for fast typists or those who crave immediate actuation.

• Operating Force: 36±5gf
• Total Travel: 3.5±0.3mm
• Pre-Travel: 2.1±0.5mm
• Tactile Travel: 0.2±0.2mm
• Tactile Force: 58±5gf

V3 Lavender Purple Pro Switch: Best Tactile Switch for Gamers

Engineered with gamers in mind, the Lavender Purple Pro features a slightly stronger bump (40gf) and shorter actuation (1.9mm) for quicker responsiveness. It also includes a dust-proof wall for added stability—making it ideal for action-heavy gaming sessions and hybrid work setups.

• Operating Force: 30±5gf
• Pre Travel: 2.0±0.6mm
• Total Travel: 3.0mm
• Tactile Travel: 0.5mm
• Tactile Force: 55±5gf

V3 Cream Blue Pro Switch: Best Tactile Switch for Beginners

If you're new to mechanical keyboards, the Cream Blue Pro offers a smooth, forgiving tactile bump and a slightly longer pre-travel. It feels light and comfortable, with just enough feedback to teach your fingers the rhythm of mechanical typing.

• Operating Force: 45±10gf
• Total Travel: 3.30 mm
• Pre Travel: 2.2±0.5mm
• Tactile Position: 0.10mm
• Tactile Force: 55±10gf

V5 Creamy Blue Pro Switch: Best Smooth Upgraded Feel Switch

The Akko V5 Creamy Blue Switch is launched in June 2025. 

An evolution of the V3 Cream Blue, the V5 version brings upgraded materials (PA12 stem, PC/PA66 housing) and improved internal structure. The switch feels more refined, with better sound dampening and a cleaner upstroke—great for experienced users seeking subtle tactile upgrades.

• Operating Force: 45±5gf
• Total Travel: 3.3±0.2mm
• Pre Travel: 2.0±0.5mm
• Tactile Position: 0.5mm
• Tactile Force: 55±5gf

Akko Bittersweet Switch: Best Thocky Tactile Switch

The Akko Cilantro Switch is launched in June 2025. 

Bittersweet delivers a warm, muted “thock” with a light bump similar to MX Brown, but with a more modern smoothness thanks to the PA12 stem and factory lubrication. It’s perfect for long work sessions or office use where both comfort and noise control matter.

• Operating Force: 48±5gf
• Operating Travel: 2.0mm
• Total Travel: 3.8mm
• Tactile Travel: 0.8mm
• Tactile Force: 60±5gf

Akko Penguin Switch: Best Silent Tactile Switch

For users who need silence but still want tactile feedback, the Penguin switch is the perfect match. It combines a higher tactile force (65gf) with a quiet, dampened bottom-out sound—ideal for late-night typing or quiet shared environments.

• Operating Force: 50 ± 5gf
• Total Travel: 3.3mm
• Pre-Travel: 2.0 ± 0.5mm
• Tactile Travel: 0.4mm
• Tactile Force: 65gf ± 5gf

How to Choose the Right Tactile Switch for You?

If you are not sure waht to choose, here is a simple guide you can refer to:

1. Decide Your Typing Style & Finger Strength

• Light Typists: Choose switches with lower operating force (30–45gf), like V3 Cream Purple Pro or Cilantro, for effortless keystrokes and reduced fatigue.
• Heavy Typists: Prefer firmer switches like Penguin (65gf) or Bittersweet (60gf) for more control and stability.

2. Choose the Response Preference

• Quick Feedback Seekers: If you want instant tactile response with minimal travel, Cilantro (0.2mm tactile position) delivers a snappy, near-instant bump.
• Gradual Press Fans: Prefer a smoother build-up? Try Bittersweet or Cream Blue for a soft, progressive tactile feel.

3. Choose the Sound Sensitivity

• Quiet Environments: Choose switches like Penguin (silent tactile) or Bittersweet (muted thock) to reduce noise.
• Sound Lovers: Go for Cilantro for its sharp “clack” or Lavender Purple for a moderate tactile sound profile.

4. Based on Your Use Case

• Office / Shared Space: Penguin, Bittersweet (quiet & comfortable)
• Gaming + Typing: Lavender Purple, Cream Blue
• Daily Typing / Productivity: Cream Purple, Bittersweet, Cream Blue
• Precision / Fast Input: Cilantro

5. Based on Your Budget Consideration

Akko switches range from $8.99 to $13.99 per 45-pack, making them one of the most affordable factory-lubed options in the tactile switch market. You can choose the suitable one based on your budget.

Summary

Everyone has their own tactile preference—maybe you enjoy a crisp, snappy feel like the Cilantro Switch, or prefer a soft, thocky response like the Bittersweet. You might prioritize silence, smoothness, or sharp feedback.

The switches we’ve recommended above reflect what most users are loving right now. With Akko’s wide range of tactile options and constant pursuit of better typing experiences, there’s a perfect switch waiting for you.