Hall Effect keyboard switches, often called “magnetic switches” are an alternative to traditional mechanical switches. What makes Hall Effect switches great? The Rapid Trigger feature.
Rapid Trigger is a feature in mechanical keyboards with magnetic switches that lets you adjusts the actuation point of each key. This means that as soon as a key starts to rise, the actuation point resets, allowing for immediate keystrokes from any position, particularly beneficial for gaming actions requiring fast and repeated key presses.
TLDR: Basically Hall Effect/Rapid Trigger keyboard use magnetic switches so you can press keys really fast without waiting for them to fully come back up. This is super useful for quick moves in games like Counter Strike, Valorant and osu!.
Full list of Hall Effect keyboards
Every keyboard on this list has magnetic hall effect switches with rapid trigger, dynamic keystrokes and adjustable actuation point.
How are they different? Layout, build quality, software quality, switches from different brands, keycaps and price. Most of them are wired only for the lowest latency possible, but some also have wireless option (latency is slightly higher then).
My personal recommendations (I’ve tested 13 HE keebs as of April 2024):
- Best Full Sized Hall Effect Keyboard: Wooting Two HE or SteelSeries Apex Pro
- Best Compact 60% Hall Effect Keyboard: Wooting 60HE or SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini
- Best Budget Keyboard: Keydous NJ80-CP (75% layout, only $99.99, wired and wireless)
- My Favorite 75%: Meletrix BOOG75 (great build quality, latency feels as good as Wooting)
- Other great picks: Akko MOD007B HE, Corsair K70 MAX, Lamzu Atlantis Pro
- Most Anticipated by me: Akko MOD007v3 HE (similar to the other Akko, but 8kHz polling and nice design)
- Best wireless: HE keyboards are best used wired to have the best latency, but if you want that flexibility then: Keydous NJ98-CP or NJ80-CP and Akko MOD007B HE are probably the best with Bluetooth and 2.4G connectivity.
And a complete list of Hall Effect keyboards as of February 2024:
| Size | Model | Description | Price | Switches and other info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100% | Wooting Two HE | Very low latency and good software | $194.99 | Older lekker magnetic switches, wired only |
| 100% | Steelseries Apex Pro | Close to Wooting in latency | $199.99 | OmniPoint switches, software is average |
| 100% | Keydous NJ98-CP | Wireless; $10 off with coupon “hlplanet” | $142.99 | Custom Kailh x Keydous switches, 8000mAh battery |
| 100% | Corsair K70 Max | Wrist rest, not factory lubed | $229.99 | Corsair MGX switches, decent software |
| 100% | NEWMEN GM560Pro | 1kHz and 8kHz versions with different colors | $89.99 | Gateron switches, 100 keys layout |
| TKL | Durgod K100 | 87 keys, lesser known brand | $99.99 | Gateron KS-20 white magnetic switches, wired only |
| 80% | Melgeek Cyber01 | Cyberpunk look, very good quality, my review | $139 | Gateron KS-20 white magnetic switches, 1000Hz polling rate |
| 80% | Wooting 80HE | Middleground betweeen Two HE and 60HE, wired only | $199.99 | Founders campaign, shipping in July/August 2024, Lekker V2 switches, Rappy Snappy feature |
| 75% | Meletrix BOOG75 | Premium build quality, wired only | $229.99 | Based on Zoom75 (also, Zoom75 HE is coming in May 2024), 1000Hz polling rate |
| 75% | Drunkdeer A75 Pro | Great budget 75%, low latency, good software | $119 | Aluminium case, Raesha magnetic switches; there’s also older normal A75 model |
| 75% | Keydous NJ80-CP | Aluminium plate, also NJ80-C wired only version | $99.99 | Outemu magentic switches, Cherry/OEM profile, aluminium/brass plate |
| 75% | Akko MOD007B HE | Three-mode connection, our review | $149.99 | Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic Switches or Kailh Sakura Pink Magnetic Switches |
| 75% | Akko MOD007v3 HE | Very similar to MOD007B HE, 8kHz polling and improved software | $179.99 | Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic switches, wired only |
| 75% | MonsGeek M1 HE | Wired | $159.99 | Akko Magnetic Switches, preorder |
| 75% | Gamakay TK75HE | Three-mode connection, ABS case, great price | $89.99 | Shipping in March/April 2024, Gamakay’s custom Linear Mercury and Silent Phoenix magnetic switches |
| 75% | Keychron Q1 HE | QMK and VIA support | $219 | Shipping in April 2024, Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic switches |
| 75% | IROK ND75 | Little-known brand, 8k polling rate | $89.99 | Gateron Jade magnetic switches |
| 75% | ZOUYA X86 | Extremely cheap, straight from the factory | $69 | Gateron switches |
| 75% | ATTACK SHARK K85 | Blue and grey colors | $79.99 | OUTEMU magnetic beige switches |
| 65% | DrunkDeer G65 | Best budget 65%, low latency, decent software | $117 | Raesha switches; decent Antler software |
| 65% | Latenpow Looting68 | Great price | $91 | Hejin Magnetic Switches |
| 65% | Kzzi G68 | Pink, grey colors | $105.99 | Gateron switches |
| 65% | Darmoshark KT68Z | Purple colors | $129.99 | Gateron switches |
| 65% | Arbiter Studio Polar 65 | Lots of color options | $150 | Fuji magnetic switches, average software (no key remapping) |
| 65% | Lamzu Atlantis Pro | Looks promising | $159.99 | Raesha switches, carrying bag |
| 65% | Endgame Gear KB65HE | Low latency, aluminum case | $139 | Gateron KS-37B switches, software is average |
| 65% | Higround Performance 65 | Constantly unavailable | $165 | Gateron KS-37B switches |
| 65% | Varmilo Victory | 8000Hz polling rate, CNC metal case | $199 | Pre-lubed Gateron x Varmilo magnetic switches |
| 65% | VXE ATK68 | Unknown brand, average software, decently priced | $115.99 | Gateron KS-20 magnetic switches |
| 60% | Wooting 60HE | Very low latency, good software | $174.99 | Lekker x Gateron switches, plastic case, wired only |
| 60% | SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini | Very low latency, decent software | $179.99 | Omnipoint switches, wired only, great build quality |
| 60% | REDRAGON M61 | 8000Hz polling rate, software is good, but firmware not great | $79.99 | OUTEMU magnetic beige switches |
| 60% | WAIZOWL Lightning 60 | Wired only, not hotswappable | $129.99 | Raesha switches, 1000Hz polling rate |
| 60% | DrunkDeer G60 | Cheap with decent software | $84 | Raesha switches, 1000hz polling |
| 75% | Flux Keyboard | Customizable, IPS Adaptive Display | Starting at $550 | Hot-swappable keyframes, Shipping June/July 2024 |
| 60% | KBDFans Takka60 | Preorder, comes in batches | $140 | Orange, Jade switches |
| 60% | KBDFans HOLY60 | Custom case, comes in batches | $210 | Gateron Magnetic switches |
| 75% | Finalmouse Centerpiece | Build-in CPU and GPU, skins marketplace (?!) | $349 | Delayed release, Gateron switches |
Hall Effect magnetic switches differ from mechanical and optical switches in their functioning. Mechanical switches rely on physical contact, while optical switches use light to register keystrokes. Hall Effect switches, on the other hand, utilize the Hall Effect principle, where a magnetic field causes a change in electrical voltage, to detect key presses without physical contact. The Hall Effect technology has been also on the rise in the game controllers space.
What Hall Effect switches are exactly used?
I checked every keyboard with magnetic switches and here’s a list of all of the switches available on the market today (will be updated):
| Switch name | Force | Bottom-out Force | Total travel | Initial magnetic flux | Bottom magnetic flux | Pre-lubed | Lifetime keystrokes | Keyboards that use them |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GATERON KS-20 | orange 38gf, white 30gf | 50gf | 4.1±0.2mm | 102±15Gs | 905±80Gs | Yes | 100 million | VXE ATK68 |
| GATERON KS-37B | 30gf | 50gf | 4.0±0.2mm | 120±15Gs | 800±80Gs | Yes | 150 million | Meletrix BOOG75, Higround Performance 65, Endgame Gear KB65HE |
| GATERON KS-20T (Magnetic Jade) | 30±7gf | 50gf | 3.5±0.2mm | 120±15Gs | 800±80Gs | Yes | 100 million | Melgeek Cyber01, KBDFans Takka60, RAKKA 60 Origin |
| GATERON KS-20U white (Dual rail) | 30±7gf | 50gf | 4.1±0.2mm | 102±15Gs | 905±80Gs | Yes | 150 million | Keychron Q1 HE, Durgod K100 |
| Raesha magnetic | 30±10gf | 50±10gf | 3.85±0.2mm | N/A | N/A | Yes | 100 million | Drunkdeer A75 Pro |
| OmniPoint 2.0 | 40gf | 45-50gf | 4.0mm | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Steelseries Apex Pro/Mini/TKL |
| Lekker L45 | 30gf | 45gf | 4.0mm | N/A | N/A | Yes | 100 million | Wooting 80HE |
| Lekker L60 | 40gf | 60gf | 4.0mm | N/A | N/A | Yes | 100 million | Wooting 80HE |
| Kailh x Keydous | 30±10gf | N/A | 3.7±0.2mm | N/A | N/A | Yes | 100 million | Keydous NJ98-CP |
| OUTEMU Magnetic Beige Switch | 40gf | 60gf | 4.0mm | 150Gs | 2800Gs | N/A | N/A | |
| CORSAIR MGX | 30gf | 55gf | 4.0mm | N/A | N/A | No | 100 million | Corsair K70 MAX |
Advantages of Hall Effect switches
- Longer lifespan due to the absence of physical contact, reducing wear and tear.
- Greater durability and resistance to dust and debris.
- Faster response time, as the magnetic field can be detected more quickly than physical contact.
- Most Hall Effect keyboards come with Rapid Trigger feature and adjustable actuation points.
Disadvantages of Hall Effect switches
- You have to use a keyboard’s software to change actuation point to not have any accidental strokes. Also rapid trigger and DKS require you to use a software.
Best Hall Effect keyboards on the market
Hall Effect switches are gaining popularity in modern gaming keyboards, with brands like SteelSeries and Wooting introducing them. Now the most popular Hall Effect switches include:
- Gateron Magnetic switches
- SteelSeries Omnipoint switches
- Wooting Lekker switches
- Raesha magnetic
- Kailh magnetic switches
OmniPoint Hall Effect Magnetic Switches from Steelseries
The APEX PRO mechanical keyboard takes a significant leap forward with the world’s fastest OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable switches, boasting 11x quicker response and 10x swifter actuation. Users can customize the sensitivity of each key, ranging from a speedy 0.2mm to a deliberate 3.8mm, and program two different actions to the same key for powerful gaming shortcuts.
- FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE & STUPIDLY FAST with OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic switches
- RAPID TRIGGER — Eradicate latency arising from the physical movement of the switch through dynamic activation and deactivation of keys based on travel distance rather than a fixed point in the key travel
- ULTIMATE CONTROL — 40 levels of per-key actuation (0.1 – 4.0mm) — set WASD for light, ultra-fast movements and set ability keys to deep presses to avoid accidentally triggering specials
- 2-IN-1 ACTION KEYS — Program two different actions to the same key, such as walking with a light touch or sprinting with a deep press
- OLED SMART DISPLAY — Delivers information at a glance from games and apps alongside a clickable metal roller and media key
The Apex Pro Mini Wireless is advertised as the world’s fastest and most advanced keyboard, providing unbeatable performance for gaming and typing tasks.
Equipped with OmniPoint 2.0 Hall Effect Adjustable Switches, it uses state-of-the-art magnetic sensors for instant, zero-contact keystroke activation. The 2-in-1 Action Keys allow you to program two actions for a single key, enabling complex combos for competitive gaming. With ultimate adjustability, you can fine-tune the registration distance of each keystroke down to 0.1mm, catering to various preferences. The compact 60% design saves desk space while retaining full-size keyboard capabilities through side-printed secondary functions.
- FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE and STUPIDLY FAST with OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic switches
- RAPID TRIGGER — Eradicate latency arising from the physical movement of the switch through dynamic activation and deactivation of keys based on travel distance rather than a fixed point in the key travel
- ULTIMATE CONTROL — 40 levels of per-key actuation (0.1 – 4.0mm) — set WASD for light, ultra-fast movements and set ability keys to deep presses to avoid accidentally triggering specials
- 2-IN-1 ACTION KEYS — Program two different actions to the same key, such as walking with a light touch or sprinting with a deep press
- 20x faster actuation, 11x faster response than traditional mechanical keyboards
DrunkDeer A75 – a cheaper alternative
DrunkDeer A75 is a great alternative for SteelSeries Apex Pro. It also has hall effect switches and it’s slightly cheaper coming at only $130. It’s a compact 75% keyboard.
Update: I have recently reviewed their re-release of this model with an aluminium case: the Drunkdeer A75 Pro. Still a great keyboard.
- Ultra Response Speed: 10 times faster than the traditional mechanical keyboard.
- Adjustable Actuation Distance: Actuate from 0.2mm to 3.8mm, the adjustable precision is 0.1mm.
- Rapid Trigger: Triggered once pressed, reset once released. Sensitivity range 0.1-3.6mm, adjustable accuracy is 0.1mm.Smoothly adjusts key action to allow mid-motion repeats without locking in actuation points. Players are free to customize it to their needs, giving them an edge in FPS and rhythm games such as Valorant, osu!.
- Magnetic Switch: Operates through the Hall effect. No metal leaf/pin/optical or other sensitive fittings. The keystriking life is 100m, which is twice as long as conventional keystriking life.
- TKL Keyboard With DrunkDeer Driver: Customizable key values and backlighting effects. Software can be upgraded free of charge during its lifecycle.
Corsair K70 MAX
The Corsair K70 MAX is a new keyboard released in September 2023. It features CORSAIR MGX switches with magnetic hall-effect sensors, allowing users to adjust pre-travel distances and reset points for individual keys. The keyboard excels in latency performance, offering an effective update rate of 8000Hz. Its build quality is also pretty great.
- Adjustable Magnetic-Mechanical Switches: The entire keyboard is equipped with fully adjustable CORSAIR MGX switches, enabling you to set every key’s actuation point from a light 0.4mm to a strong 3.6mm in 0.1mm steps, putting you in control for fast keypresses or ultra-accurate typing.
- Two Actions for One Keypress: Dual-point actuation lets you assign two discrete actions to one keypress, giving you the ability to execute instant one-two combos.
- CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing Technology: AXON enables premier K70 performance, processing and transmitting inputs up to 8x faster than conventional gaming keyboards with 8,000Hz hyper-polling. *8,000Hz hyper-polling is dependent on CPU; older CPUs may experience reduced performance.
- Soft, Satisfying Typing Acoustics: Two layers of sound dampening deliver the satisfying typing sound keyboard enthusiasts crave.
- Package Contents: CORSAIR K70 MAX RGB Magnetic-Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Magnetic Leatherette Cushioned Palm Rest | Detachable USB Type-C to Type-A Cable | CORSAIR Logo Key | Radiant Spacebar | Keycap Puller | Safety Information | Warranty Card | CH-910961G-NA
While designed for gaming, it can also serve for office work with durable PBT keycaps and sound-dampening features. However, it lacks dedicated macro keys, Bluetooth connectivity, and has some key wobbling issues, including a rattling spacebar. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for gaming with a few drawbacks.
How do Hall Effect switches work? Wooting example
Wooting Lekker switches are a type of analog mechanical keyboard switch developed by Wooting. These switches provide a unique typing experience with adjustable actuation points and pressure-sensitive input, enabling more precise control in gaming and other applications. They offer a smooth and consistent keystroke feel, making them a popular choice for gamers and typists looking for a customizable and responsive keyboard experience.
The Wooting Two HE thanks to Hall Effect switches, can detect full switch motion with 0.1mm accuracy for every key. This feature enhances both typing and gaming experiences without compromising standard keyboard functionality.
Although Hall Effect switches have a magnetic component, they are still considered mechanical switches due to their spring and stem components. The typing experience on Hall Effect keyboards is similar to other linear switches, offering smooth key travel and well-defined keypresses.
Should you buy one?
Hall Effect keyboards resemble mechanical keyboards in appearance and feel, providing similar performance in typing and gaming tasks. These keyboards offer adjustable actuation force, allowing users to mimic various popular mechanical key switches and accommodate different typing styles.
In gaming performance, Hall Effect switches are comparable or even superior to mechanical keyboards. They eliminate key chatter and offer exceptional durability, ensuring long-lasting performance even with repeated keypresses.
When considering whether to purchase a Hall Effect keyboard, keep in mind that they are less widely available and offer fewer switch variations compared to mechanical keyboards. If you’re seeking a change from traditional MX-style mechanical switches, Hall Effect keyboards can provide a refreshing alternative. However, if you prefer a wide range of switch options or are interested in customizing your keyboard, mechanical keyboards may be a better choice.
Is Hall effect keyboard better than mechanical?
It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If durability, water and dust resistance, and a contactless design are your priorities, a Hall effect keyboard might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback, customizability, and a wider range of options, a mechanical keyboard might be more suitable for you.
I love testing and writing about new tech. I'm also a gamer and an engineer. Check out my Twitter for keyboard stuff.
Initially, I had concerns about the OmniPoint switches since I was used to Cherry MX Browns with a tactile point. However, the smoothness of the Omni switches amazed me, and I ended up preferring them over the Browns. They offer unique adjustability in actuation, which can be customized per key.
The RGB lighting on the Apex Pro is outstanding, with raised caps allowing vibrant colors to spill over the board, creating an attractive effect. The typing experience is incredible, and I’ve noticed fewer errors compared to my previous keyboard.
Minor issues include the average Steelseries software and the use of ABS keycaps instead of double-shot PBT. The small OLED screen doesn’t add much functionality but is a fun, customizable feature. Also, only the primary keys have Omni switches, with other keys using generic linear switches.
Overall, the Apex Pro is a fantastic keyboard that surpasses my old Gskill in every way. If you’re looking for an analog-based mechanical keyboard with adjustable hall effect switches, this one is worth considering.
Drunkdeer is releasing A75pro soon with aluminium case and it sounds pretty sick tbh