We are releasing new keyboards soon (both PC and Mac) with 2 new mechanical switches that we've spent the last 2 years developing. They are based on the Simplified ALPS switch design, with significant improvements...
The
White switch is similar to the White Fukka ALPS switches which Fuhua stopped making early this year. Our switch has a slightly lower actuation force (60±5 gf) and a more precise operating range than the old Fukka switch (70±25 gf), but is still tactile and clicky. It is made from better quality materials than the old switch, and has a longer operating life -- 25 million actuations tested so far. We've also eliminated the annoying "chorus of springs" sound that Fukka boards made, caused by the springs in all 100+ switches on the keyboard vibrating for a while after you press a key.
The
Orange switch design is based on the switches used in the Apple Extended Keyboard II (AEKII). It is tactile but very quiet, with internal sound dampeners. Actuation force is also (60±5 gf).
Much ground has already been covered in another thread, which is worth reading as background for the discussion here...
http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?32409-Another-quiet-mechanical-keyboard-threadIn addition to the new keyboards, we will be selling these switches to any manufacturer or user who wants to purchase them. Price will be $100 for a box of 800 switches (12.5¢ per switch.)