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Mechanical keyboards are not just about feel. For many enthusiasts, sound matters just as much. Some prefer a sharp clack, while others chase a low-pitched thock. This guide focuses on deep sounding switches, explaining what makes them thocky, how long pole stems influence sound, and which switches stand out in 2025.
- Deep sounding mechanical keyboard switches are influenced by multiple factors including stem design, housing materials (like nylon for bass, polycarbonate for brightness), spring weight, and proper lubrication
- Long pole stems are a key trend in 2025 for achieving deeper keyboard sounds, as they create a distinct bottom-out feel and tone
- The overall sound profile is affected by the entire keyboard setup, including case material, plate type, and choice of keycaps
- Proper lubrication and switch films can help achieve deeper sounds by smoothing switch travel and reducing sharp clacking noises
- Even with identical switches, two keyboards may sound different due to the combination of all these variables working together
If you are completely new to mechanical keyboards, you may want to start with our beginner’s guide: What is a Mechanical Keyboard?
What Makes a Switch Deep Sounding
A deep sound usually comes from a combination of design choices and materials:
- Stem design: Long pole stems bottom out differently, often producing a deeper tone. This is why deep sounding long pole stem switches are trending in 2025.
- Housing material: Nylon housings absorb more vibration and create a bassy sound, while polycarbonate produces a brighter tone. POM is often described as creamy and muted.
- Spring weight: Heavier springs can add depth to bottom-out sound.
- Lubrication and films: Proper lube smooths the travel and lowers pitch. Films tighten housings and reduce sharp clacks.
- Keyboard setup: Case material, plate type, and even keycaps all affect final sound. See our keycaps guide to learn more.
These factors explain why two people can use the same switch but get different results.
Best Deep Sounding Switches in 2025
Below are the switches most often praised for deep, thocky, or creamy sound. Each listing includes key stats and properties so you can compare.
Gateron Ink Black V2
Type: Linear
Actuation Force: 60 g
Bottom Out: 70 g
Travel Distance: 4.0 mm
Sound Profile: Deep and smooth with minimal scratch
Why it is deep sounding: Thick housing and refined stem create a lower-pitched thock that is consistent across setups.
Gateron Oil King
Type: Linear
Actuation Force: 55 g
Bottom Out: 65 g
Travel Distance: 4.0 mm
Sound Profile: Creamy, bassy, with a subtle thump
Why it is deep sounding: Full black housing with factory lube produces one of the deepest tones on the market.
Alpaca V2
Type: Linear
Actuation Force: 62 g
Bottom Out: 67 g
Travel Distance: 4.0 mm
Sound Profile: Creamy and thocky with muted highs
Why it is deep sounding: Long pole stem and high-quality nylon housing give it a signature deep sound.
Akko Rosewood
Type: Linear
Actuation Force: 43 g
Bottom Out: 55 g
Travel Distance: 3.8 mm
Sound Profile: Smooth, muted, and low-pitched
Why it is deep sounding: Budget friendly option that balances affordability with a surprisingly deep tone.
Vertex V1
Type: Linear
Actuation Force: 50 g
Bottom Out: 58 g
Travel Distance: 3.6 mm
Sound Profile: Rich, bass-heavy, refined
Why it is deep sounding: Boutique long pole design tailored for enthusiasts chasing a low and satisfying thock.
Boba U4T
Type: Tactile
Actuation Force: 62 g
Bottom Out: 68 g
Travel Distance: 4.0 mm
Sound Profile: Deep, punchy thock on every press
Why it is deep sounding: Strong tactile bump combined with a thocky bottom-out makes this a favorite for users who want feedback with sound.
Keygeek x MZ Y3
Type: Linear
Actuation Force: 45 g
Bottom Out: 55 g
Travel Distance: 3.6 mm
Sound Profile: Smooth, mellow, with deep undertones
Why it is deep sounding: Unique long pole design with a hybrid housing material tuned for sound enthusiasts.
Deepest Sounding Switches Right Now
From community polls and Reddit threads, the deepest sounding switches in 2025 are generally agreed to be Gateron Oil Kings, Gateron Ink Blacks, and Alpaca V2. These switches consistently rank high for their low-pitched, creamy sound across different builds.
If you are looking for the deepest sounding switch 2025, the Oil King is currently the most frequently recommended.
Deep vs Clacky Switches
- Deep switches: Low-pitched, thocky, bassy. Described as creamy or muted.
- Clacky switches: Higher-pitched, crisp, and sharper. Sometimes called hollow or rattly.
Both can be enjoyable depending on taste. A deep sounding switch tends to be more soothing, while a clacky switch cuts through noise and feels snappy. If loudness is your concern, see our guide on the loudest mechanical keyboard switches for contrast.
FAQs About Deep Sounding Switches
What are thocky switches
Thocky switches are those that produce a low-pitched, bassy sound often described as thock. They are usually linear or tactile with long pole stems.
Do long pole stems make switches sound deeper
Yes. A long pole stem changes the bottom-out point, creating a sharper and lower-pitched sound. This is why deep sounding long pole stem switches are so popular.
What is the best sounding keyboard switch
The answer depends on taste. Many enthusiasts rank Gateron Oil King, Ink Black V2, and Alpaca V2 among the best sounding switches in 2025.
Are deep sounding switches loud
Not necessarily. Deep switches can be muted and creamy. Loudness is more associated with clicky switches.
What is the best switch for thock sound
Gateron Oil King and Alpaca V2 are often considered the best switches for a satisfying thock.
Conclusion
Deep sounding switches are all about low-pitched, creamy sound that enthusiasts describe as thocky. While housing materials, lubrication, and keyboard setup matter, certain switches consistently deliver the deepest tones.
For 2025, the best deep sounding switches include Gateron Ink Black V2, Gateron Oil King, Alpaca V2, Akko Rosewood, Vertex V1, Boba U4T, and Keygeek x MZ Y3.
If you want the deepest sounding switch right now, the Oil King is the most popular pick, followed closely by Ink Blacks and Alpacas.