If you are a gaming enthusiast, you are probably always on the lookout for new and improved gaming gear. Usually, gamers are looking for the best gaming keyboard, mouse, or controller to help them win.
There are many different types of gaming switches on the market, but one of the most popular is the linear switch. This type of switch has a smooth motion, which is perfect for FPS and action games.
Recently, a new linear switch has hit the market – the Alpaca Linear Switch. This switch is made by a company called Alpaca, and it is quickly gaining a reputation for being one of the best linear switches on the market.
So, what makes the Alpaca Linear Switch so unique? I will discuss everything but first, let’s take a look at the basics.
What are Alpaca Switches?
Alpaca switches have become the new normal of the gaming industry. They are developed by the JWK company, and their designs are from PrimeKb. The Alpaca Linear Switch is their latest and most popular product.
This switch is a linear, tactile switch that is designed for gaming. It has a smooth motion and is perfect for FPS and action games.
When we talk about the components that Alpaca are made of, they’re both the same.
Following are the main components:
- Polycarbonate for top dark grey housing: You will mostly see this color for keyboard housings. It provides a look of elegance.
- Nylon for bottom housing: This is the color of the switch that you won’t see because the keycap will cover it. Nylon is known to be a tough material.
- POM stem: The stem of the keycap is made of POM, which is strong and resistant plastic. POM is usually used in mechanical keyboard switches.
- Gold Plated Contact: The contacts are where the switch makes contact with the keyboard PCB. These are plated with gold to ensure a reliable connection.
The question is: Will this switch take the gaming world by storm? Will this be an alternative to the popular Cherry MX switches?
Let’s see in the review.
Alpaca Switches Review
When it comes to its making, the Alpaca Linear Switch is composed of a gold-plated spring and has a bottom-out force of 62g.
Alpaca has also opted to use thicker pins in its switch, which leads to excellent durability. This switch is designed to last 50 million clicks, which is five times more than Cherry MX switches.
One of the major benefits of this switch is its travel distance. The Alpaca Linear Switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, which is much shorter than the Cherry MX switch (4mm). This makes it an ideal choice for FPS and action games.
The Alpaca Linear Switch is also available in various colors, including black, blue, brown, and red. Also, this switch is a perfect replacement for any rubber or silicone switch.
Alpaca V1 vs V2
Alpaca V2 is the latest linear switch from Alpaca. It is a revision of the original Alpaca V1, released in early 2017. However, it doesn’t have any effects on the design, performance, or manufacturing of the switch.
A slight difference between the two switches is that the stem of the Alpaca V2 is slightly longer. This is because some switches, such as the Razer Green switch, have a shorter stem than others.
But when it comes to smoothness, I would go with Alpaca 2.
Alpaca V2 is smoother and has a shorter travel distance than Alpaca V1.
However, this difference isn’t really noticeable, so it really comes down to your personal preference.
Alpaca 2 is the improved version of the Alpaca V1, which is a pretty good switch. I don’t think the original Alpaca V1 needs to be replaced, but if you want to try the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch, I don’t see why not.
Both the Alpaca V1 and the Alpaca V2 are PCB Mounted switches which means you can easily use them for 5 Pin type keyboards and are perfect for mechanical keyboards that use a 6.25x spacebar.
Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is the latest switch from JWK, and it’s designed for gamers who are looking for a smooth linear switch with a shorter travel distance.
Here are the main specifications of Alpaca Switches:
Manufactured By | JWK |
Design By | PrimeKB |
Main Components | Polycarbonate, Nylon, POM, Gold Plated Metal |
Switch Type | PCB Mounted, 5 Pin |
Profile | Smoother and Lubberer |
Keycap Termination | PCB Mounted |
Switch Mounting | Plate Mount |
Auction Force | 62-gram (bottom-out) |
Noise Level
When it comes to sound testing, these switches are a big win. They are rated at near to 45% quieter than Cherry MX Blue switches, which makes them ideal for use in office environments.
Its silent profile and shorter travel distance make it perfect for gaming as well.
Here you can watch this video to understand the sound test:
Alpaca V2 Switch Performance
The keycap mount is a little different on these switches. They come with a PCB-mounted keycap, which is thicker and has a square profile. This keycap is designed to be seated on the switch stem and snap into place.
The switch also comes with a nylon-reinforced plastic washer that helps to reduce noise and stabilize the switch.
When you use these switches, they have a smooth and linear feel. They are also very lubberly, which makes them easy to use.
One thing to note is that they are a PCB-mounted switch, so you will need to use a keyboard that has a 5-pin connector.
Overall, the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is an excellent switch for gaming or office use. It has a smooth linear feel with a shorter travel distance, and it’s rated at almost 45% quieter than Cherry MX Blue switches.
Are Alpacas Good Switches?
Well, that really depends on what you’re looking for in a switch. If you want a smooth linear switch with a shorter travel distance, then the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is a great option. They are reasonably good as gaming switches, but I would not recommend them for typists.
Are Alpaca Switches Quiet?
The Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is rated at almost 45% quieter than Cherry MX Blue switches, which makes them ideal for use in office environments. They have a silent profile and shorter travel distance, making them perfect for gaming. I find this quality more than sufficient.
How Do You Lubricate Alpaca Switches?
Well, you really don’t have to lubricate them. They are lubberly by design. However, if you want to add a little extra lubricant, you can use a light oil or grease. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can cause the switch to become sticky.
Are Alpaca Switches Good for Gaming?
The Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is an excellent switch for gaming. They have a smooth linear feel with a shorter travel distance, and they are rated at very near to 45% quieter than Cherry MX Blue switches. They are also very lubberly, which makes them easy to use.
What are the Alpaca Switches Made From?
The main components of the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch are made from polycarbonate, nylon, and POM. The switch stem is made from gold-plated metal, and the keycap is made from PCB-mounted.
Are Alpacas Linear or Tactile?
The Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is a linear switch, which means that it has a smooth feel with no tactile feedback. This makes them ideal for gaming or office use.
Alpaca vs Tangerine Switches
Both the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch and the Tangerine Switch are PCB-mounted linear switches. However, the Alpaca is quieter than the Tangerine Switch. Tangerine switches are one of the smoothest linear switches I have ever tried, but they are not as quiet as the Alpaca.
If we compare the other specifications, Tangerine comes with almost the same features: a 5-pin connector, smooth linear feel, lubberly, etc. So, it really depends on what you are looking for in a switch. If you want a quiet linear switch, go for the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch.
If you want the smoothest linear switch around, go for the Tangerine Switch.
Alpaca vs Cream
Cream switches are also linear switches with a smooth feel.
The following are its specifications as compared to the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch:
- Cream has an auction speed of 55g with a bottom out of 70g.
- Cream has a travel speed of 4mm.
- It’s also pre-lubricated and comes with a pull-tab.
When it comes to feeling, Cream is stiffer than the Alpaca with a bottom out that’s 5g heavier. Its travel speed is also a bit slower at 4mm. However, it does come pre-lubricated and with a pull tab. So, if those features are important to you, then the Cream switch would be a better option.
When we compare both the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch and the Cream switch, it’s important to keep in mind that the Alpaca is rated at 45% quieter than the Cream switch.
Alpaca vs Banana Split Switches
Let’s take a look at how the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch compares to the Banana Split Switches:
- Both switches are PCB-mounted linear switches.
- Both have a smooth linear feel.
- Both have been made with components like polycarbonate, nylon, and POM.
- Both have a gold-plated metal switch stem.
Both switches are very similar, with the only difference being the design. The latter is designed by C3 Equalz. When it comes to performance, both switches are very comparable. They are both linear switches with a smooth feel that are perfect for gaming or office use. So, it really comes down to personal preference.
Alpaca vs Lavender Switches
I will start with the feel of the switches as that is the main difference between the two. Though both are linear switches, the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is much smoother than the Lavender switch. The Lavender has a little hard and striking tactile feedback, which may be good for some but not for others.
When it comes to other features, they are pretty much the same. 5-pin connector, smooth linear feel, lubberly, etc. Lavender is produced by Durock with a 65g gold plated switch which means it can last up to 100 million keystrokes.
Again, I will say that it really comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth feel, the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is the perfect option. If you are looking for a switch with tactile feedback, the Lavender switch may be a better choice for you.
Alpaca vs Mauve Switches
Let’s first see the specifications of Muave switches:
- Switch type Linear
- POM stem
- Nylon housing
- PCB mount (5 pins)
- Made by JWK
- Pretty lubed
- Spring Weight 65g
So, these are some pretty good specs. When it comes to feel, Mauve switches are stiffer than the Alpaca with a bottom out that’s 5g heavier. However, they are still a very smooth linear switch. They also come with a gold-plated metal switch stem that makes them durable and perfect for gaming or office use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Alpaca Switches Clones of Cherry MX Switches?
No, these are not clones of Cherry MX switches. They are a completely different switch with their own unique features.
What Makes Alpaca Linear Switches Different From Other Switches?
Alpaca linear switches are different from other switches because they are smooth, have a linear feel, and are perfect for gaming or office use. They also come with a gold-plated metal switch stem that makes them durable.
What is the Lifespan of an Alpaca Linear Switch?
The lifespan of an Alpaca linear switch is more than 50 million keystrokes.
What is the Difference Between an Alpaca Linear Switch and a Cherry MX Switch?
The main difference between an Alpaca linear switch and a Cherry MX switch is that the Alpaca is quieter and has a smoother feel. They are both linear switches, but the Alpaca is much smoother than the Cherry MX switch.
Conclusion
The Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is a great option for those looking for a linear switch with a smooth feel. They are quiet, lubberly, and perfect for gaming or office use. They also come with a gold-plated metal switch stem that makes them durable.
When compared with other linear switches, the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is a clear winner. They are smoother than Mauve and Lavender switches, have a longer lifespan and are perfect for gaming or office use.
So, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth feel, the Alpaca 2 Linear Switch is the perfect option for you.