| Switch Type: | Tactile |
| Mount Type: | Plate Mount |
| Travel Distance: | 2mm Actuation | 4mm Total |
| Force: | 40g Operating |
| Price: | ~£11.00 (45 pieces) |
The Akko CS Jelly Blue is a unique switch that features a “dual tactile bump”, and was designed as a “toy” for the custom keyboard community. Click here to read Akko’s full description.
Smoothness: 8/10
On-centre keypresses are very smooth with very minimal scratchiness throughout.
Off-centre keypresses are also very smooth, but with more switches showing minor hints of scratchiness. However, not enough for them to be a dealbreaker.
Overall, these are very smooth and I can highly recommend them for those looking for a smooth budget tactile switch.
Akko CS Jelly Blue switch disassembled.
Weighting: 7/10
According to Akko, these switches have an actuation force of 40g at 2mm, a peak tactile force of 60g at 0.3mm and a total travel of 4mm.
So, whilst it may seem like a light switch from the numbers, the peak tactile force is on the heavier side of things making for an interestingly balanced weighting…kinda.
In terms of the key feel, I would describe them as “medium weighted”, specifically before actuation. However, since they have a light spring, bottoming out on these switches can be quite harsh feeling.
Moreover, the second tactile bump cannot be felt even on very slow keypresses. So, it’s pointless and gimmicky. I’m not exactly sure why they even bothered with it.
Overall, these are on the lower side of a 7, but a 7/10 nonetheless. It just about strikes the balance between having a light spring and having some sort of tactility. Although, I would’ve preferred something a little heavier, but any lighter and it definitely would have been a 6.
Additionally, since the second tactile bump cannot be felt under normal circumstances. I’m not factoring it in the score. Again, it’s a useless gimmick.
Sound: 7/10
Akko switches + CLACK. An iconic duo at this point. I suspect these switches are made of the same materials as the Jelly Black. So, it’s no surprise they sound very similar despite these being a tactile switch.
However, the switches installed in my “R” and “D” keys sound a bit plasticky (demonstrated in the video). I suspect this is due to an inconsistent construction with the metal contacts as the sound can only be heard upon actuation. I’m mostly fine with it, but I can see it being a dealbreaker to many.
Overall, they sound more than decent enough and I do really like clacky switches such as these. It would’ve been an easy 8/10, but it does have its issues, sadly.
Typing Performance: 6/10
As mentioned above, the second tactile bump is nothing more than a gimmick. However, the rest of the typing experience has been quite pleasant.
Additionally, these have proven to be very smooth and consistent – a good trait I’ve witnessed in Akko switches. A trait I hope they continue down the line.
Now, for the not so good aspects.
Compared to many tactile switches in its price segment, think the Kailh BOX Brown, Outemu Brown etc…it does well against those. However, when pitted against Akko’s own, Lavender Purple, It struggles. These are just not as tactile and as satisfying to type on. It’s in this middle ground of more tactile than the common browns, but not as tactile as “enthusiast grade” tactile switches. Only a handful of switches fall into this, and the Jelly Blue is one of those. And it’s a disappointing.
Overall, this wouldn’t be my pick as it lacks the tactility I want from a switch, but it’s at least better than something like Gateron or Kailh Browns in my opinion.
Akko CS Jelly Blue stem top profile.
Akko CS Jelly Blue stem side profile.
Gaming Performance: 7/10
I’ll keep this short.
They’re smooth, consistent and reliable making for a compelling gaming switch. Plus, they’re tactile and decently weighted. For me, those are some serious bonus points. Or in other words – These are bloody good!
I’d say the only real let-down is the tactility during fast-paced gameplay. Most of the time, I didn’t feel them, but I also didn’t treat them like linear switches as the tactility is present and can be relied on. I do still wish they were more tactile though.
Overall, pretty good. A solid pick, especially for those looking for an affordable tactile switch, or for those looking to upgrade from a Cherry, Gateron or Outemu Brown.
Final Score = 35/50 (70%)
Places to purchase this switch:
AliExpress | Akko | Amazon