What factors affect the lifespan of switches besides dust getting in or pressing the keys too hard? For example, are linear switches as durable as clicky switches, or are linears more long-lasting? On average, how many clicks do they usually last?
How long do switches really last?
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The lifespan of a switch primarily depends on **product quality, manufacturing tolerances, and the mechanical durability of its moving parts**. Standard switch manufacturers typically guarantee a lifespan ranging from **50 million to 100 million keystrokes**, though this figure varies by model. For example, Cherry MX linear switches (such as Blue or Red) usually offer **50 million keystrokes**, while higher-quality linear models (like Alps RK or Gateron) can reach **70 million to 100 million**. Clicky models (e.g., Cherry MX Blue, Kailh Box) may have a slightly shorter lifespan due to increased vibration and stress from their sound mechanisms.
The **material of the moving parts** is also critical—models using hard silicone or Teflon instead of soft rubber gaskets experience less wear. Additionally, **controlled temperature and humidity environments** extend lifespan; for instance, switches in an office with air conditioning tend to last longer than those in a home setting. Beyond these factors, **manufacturer tolerances** play a role—cheap clones or unknown brands may use non-standard components, leading to premature failure.
Linear switches might seem like they can handle clicks, but honestly, neither lasts long without maintenance before they start smelling like a server room 😂 Mine lasted 5,000 clicks before it sounded like "I inherited my dad's PC" and then just froze like that 💀
Man, bro, Linear switches always feel more solid to me, clicky ones' stems keep breaking like crazy. I can't even tell how many presses they last, I read somewhere in a forum that standard ones are around 50-60 million presses.