This page is devoted to sound tests of mechanical keyboard switches. Each switch has been tested on a stock Monsgeek M3 aluminum keyboard with "Ocean Wave" Glorious Premium PBT keycaps. Other than where indicated, I have not removed any of the keyboard foam. This should minimize the sound of the keyboard itself, leaving the switches to produce as much of the sound signature as possible.
I have set a consistent microphone senstivity (gain) for each trial. You can turn up or down your volume without invalidating the comparisons though you should use a consistent volume across comparative tests. I have not done any digital signal processing, not even eliminating background noise. I have tried to keep such noise to a minimum, and I have include a sound recording so you can hear for yourself the unfiltered background noise.
The sounds were recorded using a Rode Podmic (SLR) microphone and run through an Elgato Wave XLR audio interface. Recording was done using Audacity software.
Many of the switches have been purchased from Milktooth.com. That web site includes sound tests of every switch sold on the site. The production values of the recordings are excellent, but I do not know if recording parameters are maintained consistently. Milktooth also provides detail technical information on the switches. The person who runs the Milktooth site stands behind what he sells and generally offers good pricing. However, the switches are not shipped in protective packaging beyond a padded envelope and so some switches can have damaged pins. I have no affiliation with the Milktooth web site. I have also purchased many of the switches from Amazon and from Divinikey.
I have purchased all of the switches with my personal funds, and I do not include any affiliate links on this site. If you want to find a seller of any of the switches, Amazon, Milktooth, Divinikey and Whatgeek are good places to try. I have included one set of switches bought on Ali Express (at pre-tariff prices). I anticipate selling many (though not all) of the switches on the Boardwalk web site, always for less than the current market price.
If you want to send me a message, please do NOT send it to my Harvard email address. This project is not in any way sponsored by or affiliated with Harvard University or with the Harvard Law School. I can be contacted through the Boardwalk site.