Pantheon “This Switch Is Called” Linear Switches: A Deep Dive into Smooth Typing
PantheonKeys, a Singapore-based company known for its innovative keyboard products, brings to the table a unique offering: “This Switch Is Called” Linear Switches.
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| “This Switch Is Called” Linear Switches |
Specifications:
- Switch Type: Linear
- Number of Pins: 5
- Actuation: 50g
- Bottom Out: 60g
- Total Travel: 3.8mm
- Top Housing: POK
- Bottom Housing: Nylon + 20% Glass Fiber
- Stem Material: UPE
- Factory Lubrication: Light
- Spring: 19mm Single Stage
- Manufacturer: Keygeek
- 1 Quantity = 10 Switches
In this review, we’ll explore what makes these switches stand out and why they might be the next addition to your custom keyboard build.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing I noticed is the careful attention to materials: the stem is made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UPE), known for its smoothness and durability. The top housing is crafted from POK, a sturdy plastic, while the bottom housing uses nylon reinforced with 20% glass fiber. This adds rigidity and reduces wobble. Together the materials contribute to the switch's durability and creates a smooth, consistent feel across the board.
At its core, the switch is designed to be linear, meaning it has no tactile bump or audible click. It offers a fluid keystroke from top to bottom, making it perfect for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience, whether for gaming or everyday typing.
Sound Profile: The "Thock" Experience
One of the most defining characteristics of these switches is their “thocky” sound profile. For those who enjoy a deep, muted sound when typing, “This Switch Is Called” delivers in this area. The UPE stem contributes significantly to the acoustics, producing a rich, low-pitched sound that could be described as satisfying and relaxing.
The combination of nylon and glass fiber housing further dampens any unwanted noise, ensuring a refined typing experience without the harshness that some linear switches might exhibit. If you’re in a quiet workspace or prefer less auditory distraction while typing, these switches are ideal.
Don't you think the switches resemble the sea and its waves?
Since the switches reminded me of the sea and its waves, I paired the switches on my GMK87 Barebones Kit together with cute shark keycaps. For the spacebar and modifier keys (e.g. CRTL, Shift and ALT) I used a lighter switch (as always).
Sound Test
Customization and Modding
If you want to further fine tune your switches further but do not want to lub them yourself, PantheonKeys offers customization services for those who want to fine-tune their switches even further. For an additional fee, you can opt for hand-lubrication using Krytox 205g0 or Tribosys 3203. This reduces friction even more, enhancing the smoothness and eliminating any potential scratchiness. Additionally, TX films are added to reduce wobble, ensuring a stable, consistent typing experience.
If you are looking to reduce spring noise, Krytox 105 lubrication is applied to the springs. These mods make the switches quieter and even smoother, creating a premium typing feel.
Performance: A Balance of Smoothness and Precision
With an actuation force of 50g and a bottom-out force of 60g, these switches strike a nice balance between being light enough for rapid typing but still offering enough resistance to avoid accidental key presses. The total travel distance is 3.8mm, which is slightly shorter than the standard 4mm in some switches, allowing for quicker key returns.
That said, "This Switch Is Called" Linear Switches are an excellent choice for both gamers and fast typists. The single-stage spring ensures that each keystroke feels snappy and smooth. It is a versatile switch for different use cases.
Personally, I am more used to lighter switches with actuation force of 35-45g, but it was quite easy adjusting to this slightly heavier linear switches. I noticed that it did help me to slow down a little and typos are slightly reduced. As each keypress requires more intentional effort, the extra resistance contribute to a more controlled and precise typing experience (for me at least). However, due to the increased resistance from the stronger spring long typing sessions might be giving the fingers a good workout.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Switch For?
The Pantheon “This Switch Is Called” Linear Switches are a fantastic option for anyone who enjoys a smooth, quiet typing experience with a deep, satisfying sound. Whether you’re an enthusiast building your next custom keyboard or someone looking for an upgrade, these switches provide a balance of precision, comfort, and sound quality.
The premium materials used in the switches, coupled with PantheonKeys’ modding services, make them stand out in the crowded field of mechanical switches. If you’re looking to invest in a set of switches that offer a smooth keystroke with a “thocky” sound profile, these switches are well worth considerin.
Just take note that having an 50g actuation force and 60g bottom out force, “This Switch Is Called” Linear Switches would be considered moderately heavy. It provides more resistance than many lighter switches, which might make it more challenging to press. This can result in a more deliberate typing experience with greater control, but it may also lead to increased finger fatigue during extended use.
Are you a light, moderate or heavy switch lover? Let me know in the comments below!
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