Akko
Akko CS Switches - Air
Best linear switches for gamers and typists seeking fluid, responsive keystrokes.
Experience a consistently smooth keystroke with the Akko CS Switches - Air. These linear mechanical switches are engineered for fluid motion, making them ideal for both typing and gaming. Each pack contains 45 switches, featuring a precise 1.9mm pre-travel distance and requiring a 48gf operating force. With a total travel of 4.0mm and an end force of 56gf, these switches enhance the responsiveness and tactile feel of your mechanical keyboard.
$14.00
More CS Switches Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
200
/ 6542
#200 in Keyboard Keys & Caps
Price vs Category Average
-67%
Below average
Type
Linear
/ Linear
Who it's for
- Budget-conscious builders wanting premium performance at a low cost
- Speed typists and gamers needing minimal finger fatigue
- Keyboard enthusiasts seeking a crisp, distinct acoustic profile
Who should skip it
- Users preferring a deep, muted thock sound profile
- Heavy-handed typists prone to frequent accidental key presses
- Perfectionists unwilling to perform manual switch lubrication
Performance breakdown
Keystroke Fluidity
Linear action provides a consistently smooth travel from top to bottom.
Actuation Precision
The 1.9mm pre-travel offers a snappy, responsive feel for rapid inputs.
Build Consistency
High-quality manufacturing ensures uniform performance across every switch in the pack.
Compatibility Range
Standard MX-style stems fit almost any custom mechanical keyboard build.
Typing Comfort
Balanced operating force prevents fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions.
Installation Ease
Standardized design makes swapping switches simple for both beginners and veterans.
Key Specs
Type
Linear
Quantity Per Pack
45pcs
Operating Force
48gf ± 5gf
Pre-Travel
1.9 ± 0.3mm
Total Travel
4.0 - 0.5mm
End Force
56gf ± 5gf
Switch Mechanism
Mechanical
Stem Mount Type
MX Style (Cross)
Features
- Smooth, consistent linear switch action
- Fluid and responsive keystroke feel
- Designed for mechanical keyboards
- Sold in convenient 45-piece quantities
- Enhances keyboard responsiveness
What customers say
The Akko CS Air switches are highly regarded budget linears praised for their exceptional out of the box smoothness, thanks to improved factory lubrication. The core appeal is the extremely light 37g actuation force, which typists and gamers find effortless and fast. Users also appreciate the pleasing, deeper sound profile that exceeds expectations for the price. However, this light spring weight is polarizing; some users report frequent accidental presses. Despite this, the consensus is that these switches deliver phenomenal quality and value, making them a top recommendation for anyone specifically seeking a very light and smooth linear experience.
Know before you buy
A linear switch provides a smooth, consistent keystroke from top to bottom without any tactile bump or audible click. This makes them a popular choice for gamers who prefer a fluid, uninterrupted motion.
These switches feature an MX-style cross stem, meaning they are compatible with most standard mechanical keyboards that support Cherry MX-style switches. Always verify that your keyboard is hot-swappable or supports soldering for 3-pin or 5-pin switches before purchasing.
Each pack contains 45 switches. For a standard full-sized keyboard (104 keys), you would need three packs, while a 60% or 65% keyboard typically requires two packs.
An operating force of 48gf is considered a medium-light weight. It is light enough to prevent finger fatigue during long typing sessions, yet provides enough resistance to avoid accidental key presses.
Pre-travel is the 1.9mm distance the key must be pressed before the switch registers an input, while the 4.0mm total travel is the full distance the switch moves until it hits the bottom. The shorter pre-travel on these switches allows for faster, more responsive inputs.
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$14