Linear switches are a fan favorite—and for good reason. Their smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes feel buttery from start to finish. Whether you’re deep into a gaming session or writing your magnum opus, linear switches deliver clean, consistent motion. No clicks. No bumps. Just pure flow.
Looking for budget-friendly linear switches? Keep a few things in mind. Actuation force matters. Lighter switches feel snappy. Heavier ones offer more control. Travel distance is key too. Shorter travel means faster response. Longer travel can feel more satisfying.
Build quality makes a huge difference. Cheap materials wear out fast. Solid construction feels better and lasts longer. You want switches that can take a beating and still sound smooth.
With so many affordable choices, picking the right switch can feel tricky. But don’t stress. We’ve rounded up the budget linear switches on Amazon to help you find the perfect match—for your fingers and your wallet.
| Switch | Actuation Force | Material | Unique Feature |
| Gateron Milky Yellow Pro V2 | 50g | Nylon Housing, POM Stem | Milky Housing |
| Akko Rosewood | 40g | Nylon House & Stem | LED Slot |
| EPOMAKER Wisteria | 45g | PC/Nylon Housing, POM Stem | LED Slot |
| Wuque Studio Morandi | 50g (est.) | POM Housing, UPE Stem | PMMA Light Diffuser |
| LEOBOG Reaper | 36g | PC/Nylon Housing, POM Stem | Lightweight Actuation |
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Gateron Milky Yellow Pro V2: Best All-Rounder
The budget linear switches, Gateron Milky Yellow Pro V2, are a standout option for anyone looking to elevate their keyboard’s performance on a budget. With a 50g actuation force, they strike a comfortable balance between responsiveness and ease of use—perfect for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming.
Aesthetically, their signature milky white housings aren’t just for looks. These upper and lower covers also enhance the switches’ overall durability, making them a reliable choice for everyday use. What sets these switches apart, though, is their factory pre-lubrication. This adds a smooth, almost gliding feel to each keystroke, reducing friction and helping to keep noise levels down—great news if you’re working in a quiet environment or sharing space with others.
- Beginner Tip: Pre-lubrication means smoother presses—no extra oiling needed at first!
Built with a mix of copper and soft plastic components, the Milky Yellow Pros are designed to go the distance, rated for up to 50 million keystrokes. That said, keep in mind that factory lube isn’t permanent. Over time, the smoothness may fade, and preferences vary—some users love the feel right out of the box, while others may opt for custom lubing to fine-tune the experience. Still, for their price, these switches deliver impressive value and performance.
Vibe with these budget linear switches? They’re worth a glance!
Akko Rosewood: Best Lightweight
The budget lightweight linear switches, Akko Rosewood, are designed with mechanical keyboard enthusiasts in mind. With a 40g actuation force, these switches deliver a smooth typing experience. Their rosewood finish not only looks great but also contributes to the unique sound profile they offer.
These switches are also built with an LED slot, allowing for customizable lighting options. This feature can make your keyboard stand out while providing functionality that matches aesthetics. While the sound profile boasts a nostalgic thock, it can be somewhat dependent on the keyboard material used.
- Beginner Tip: Thock’s a deep, satisfying sound—great for cozy typing vibes!
Despite being pre-lubed, many users find that a personal touch improves their experience, yielding a smoother feel. Some switches may exhibit noticeable wobble, but the overall feedback indicates they are generally reliable. With 45 switches in each package, you can easily upgrade your keyboard without breaking the bank.
Feeling these budget lightweight linear switches? Take a peek!
EPOMAKER Wisteria: Best Stylish
The budget stylish linear switch, EPOMAKER Wisteria, delivers a buttery-smooth typing feel without the usual scratchiness. They’re built for comfort and speed. With a POM+PTFE stem and tough PA66 bottom housing, these switches stay consistent—whether you’re gaming or typing a novel. A 45g actuation force and 3.6mm travel strike the perfect balance between fast and comfy.
But these switches aren’t just about feel—they look stunning too. Inspired by the Wisteria plant, they show off soft purples and pastel green. It’s like springtime on your keyboard. Add in the integrated LED slot, and your board glows with your vibe, day or night.
- Beginner Tip: LED slots let your keyboard shine with custom RGB colors!
They’re linear and factory-lubed, so each press glides like butter. The sound? Not silent, but delightfully subtle. It’s a smooth, quiet hum—not a clacky distraction. If you want style, smoothness, and value all in one switch, the EPOMAKER Wisteria is a colorful, budget-friendly gem.
Also available in tactile.
Drawn to this budget stylish linear switch? It’s worth checking!
Wuque Studio Morandi: Best RGB Glow
The budget RGB linear switches, Wuque Studio Morandi, stand out for their impressively smooth actuation, enhanced by quality factory lubrication. With a 50g actuation force (est.) and 60g bottom-out, they deliver a firm, satisfying keystroke while still maintaining a light, responsive feel—making them a solid choice for both fast typers and dedicated gamers.
One of the most distinctive features of these switches is the built-in PMMA light diffuser. Designed with a honeycomb scattering surface, it ensures your RGB lighting shines through evenly and vibrantly. The result is a beautifully diffused glow that adds visual appeal to any setup. Better yet, the diffuser is removable without needing to open the switch—perfect for those who like to tweak and customize with ease.
- Beginner Tip: Light diffusers soften RGB glow for a dreamy setup!
Of course, no switch is without its quirks. Some users have noted a bit of stem wobble, which could affect the overall typing feel for those sensitive to such details. And while the activation force delivers precision, it might feel a touch firm for fans of ultra-light switches.
Still, for anyone looking to upgrade on a budget, the Wuque Studio Morandi offers an excellent mix of thoughtful design and reliable performance. With its stylish features and smooth operation, it could be just the finishing touch your keyboard build needs.
Like these budget RGB linear switches? Give them a look!
LEOBOG Reaper: Best Speedy
The budget speedy linear switch, LEOBOG Reaper, makes a strong impression with their thoughtful construction and balanced performance. With a light 36g actuation force and a 55g bottom-out, each keystroke feels smooth and responsive—perfect for those who value both speed and control, whether you’re gaming or just cruising through your daily typing tasks.
These switches use a POM stem and tough PC/Nylon housing, built to handle serious typing and gaming. The usual POM rustle? Toned down big time. The result is a quieter, smoother sound that’s easy on the ears. They also work with most MX-style keycaps, so swapping them in is a breeze. Whether you’re upgrading or building from scratch, these switches fit right in.
- Beginner Tip: Actuation force is how hard you press—lighter’s faster!
Factory-lubed right out of the box, the Reaper switches offer a slick, consistent feel during use. And if you’re into lighting effects, you’ll appreciate the built-in LED slots—perfect for adding some flair to your setup or experimenting with your favorite RGB configurations.
Users often describe the sound as creamy and satisfying, though personal preferences may vary. Still, the overall experience is smooth, quiet, and reliable—exactly what you want in a well-priced linear switch.
In short, the LEOBOG Reaper switches deliver impressive value, combining comfort, style, and performance into a package that’s hard to ignore for budget-conscious enthusiasts.
Into this budget speedy linear switch? See what’s up!
Choose Your Budget Switch
When it comes to finding the perfect linear switch without stretching your budget, there are plenty of impressive options to choose from. Whether you prioritize smooth keystrokes, unique sound profiles, or eye-catching aesthetics, each of the top five budget linear switches we’ve explored offers a compelling blend of performance and value. From pre-lubed convenience to customizable lighting and durable construction, these switches prove that you don’t have to compromise on quality to stay within your price range. No matter your preference—be it gaming, typing, or a bit of both—there’s a budget-friendly switch out there ready to elevate your keyboard experience.
Haven’t decided on a kit yet? Check out some of our favorites here.
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