FOOTPRINT
Three pins do not mean universal fit
The KS-33 low-profile footprint matters. Pin count alone does not make it interchangeable with standard MX or Kailh Choc sockets.
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02 / THE ESSENTIALS
Gateron KS-33 Low Profile 2.0 Chocolate Tactile Switches at a Glance
Tactile
Switch Type
3 mm
Total Travel
POK
Top Housing
3-pin
Mount
Yes
Factory Lubed
Short travel, gentle feedback
A subtle tactile bump gives each press a physical cue without a click mechanism. The short, low-profile stroke suits typists who prefer feedback over a completely linear feel.
Pre-lubed, but not silent
Factory lubrication does not guarantee a particular sound or smoothness. Some users report residual scratch noise; your case, plate, keycaps and typing style also matter. Try a small pack before committing to a full board.
Is Chocolate right for you?
GOOD FIT
Choose it for
- A gentle tactile cue instead of linear travel.
- A slim keyboard with confirmed KS-33 support.
- Replacing worn switches in a compatible board.
- Testing a different low-profile typing feel.
BEFORE YOU BUY
Consider the trade-offs
- Not a silent switch.
- Not a full-height MX or Kailh Choc replacement.
- A subtle bump, rather than strong tactile feedback.
- Factory lube and sound can vary between builds.
Choose your options
Pack Size: 10 pcs / 30 pcs / 70 pcs / 110 pcs
Check the footprint first
KS-33 is a dedicated low-profile mechanical footprint. Three pins or an MX-style keycap stem alone do not establish compatibility.
Socket and plate
Confirm Gateron KS-33 Low Profile 2.0 support for your exact keyboard model and revision. Standard MX and Kailh Choc sockets are not interchangeable with this footprint.
Before replacing switches
Check the keyboard maker’s specifications, then verify the physical clearances. Do not pull a soldered switch as though it were hot-swappable.
PCBKS-33 socket and three-pin layout
MountingHot-swap support and plate fit
KeycapsStem fit, skirt and case clearance
How many switches should you order?
Choose your keyboard layout to get a practical starting quantity. Then confirm the exact key count for your board and decide how many spare switches you want for testing or replacement.
Recommended for 65%
Select an available configuration
Recommendations require verified pack sizes, prices and availability from the current variation data.
Core specifications
Manufacturer ratings; force and travel include their published tolerances.
Switch type
Tactile mechanical, low profile
Model
KS-33 Low Profile 2.0 Chocolate
Operating force
55±15 gf (manufacturer rating)
Pre-travel
1.7±0.4 mm
Total travel
3.0±0.2 mm
Stem
POM, light brown
Top housing
POK, milky
Bottom housing
POM, light brown
Pins
3-pin (KS-33 low-profile layout; not standard MX footprint)
Lubrication
Factory pre-lubed
LED compatibility
Supports compatible SMD LEDs
BUYING NOTES
Good to Know
FORCE RATINGS
Compare the same force measurement
Published operating force, measured actuation force and bottom-out force describe different values. Check the measurement and tolerance before comparing switches.
SHORT TRAVEL
Shorter travel does not guarantee faster play
A shorter physical stroke does not by itself prove faster gaming results or reduced fatigue. Typing habits and keyboard firmware still matter.
Frequently asked questions
Will they fit my low-profile keyboard?
Only if the exact model and revision supports the KS-33 Low Profile 2.0 footprint. “Low profile” and “3-pin” are not universal compatibility standards.
Can I use MX-style keycaps?
The stem is MX-style, but keycap skirts, plate and case clearance still need checking. Stem shape alone does not guarantee a usable fit.
Are Chocolate switches silent?
No. Sound depends on the whole keyboard and your typing style; factory lubrication does not make this a silent switch.
Do they support RGB backlighting?
They support compatible SMD LEDs and use a light-guide design. Brightness and legend visibility depend on the PCB and keycaps.
What does the force rating mean?
Gateron specifies 55±15 gf operating force. A reviewer’s actuation or bottom-out measurement describes a particular sample or a different point on the force curve.
How many switches should I order?
Count your board’s switch positions and allow for spares. A 10-switch pack suits sampling or a few replacements. Pack Size is switches per pack; cart quantity is the number of packs.