The
Ripometer is by far the most accessible, reliable (no moving parts) and inexpensive way to accurately measure the resistance of a key switch. But I wanted to find a gauge that could be used to do the same thing. At first I wanted a digital gauge, but they are at too high of a price point. I toyed with modding a $10 digital scale but then discovered you can get these gauges that are normally very expensive for a good price if you keep your eyes open.
I've been using these tension/push/force gauges for a while now and they are very reliable and accurate. There are many manufacturers and any should be fine, just be sure you get a 100g version. Preferably 10-100g.
Here's an ebay search you can save that will show you some good ones. It's pretty broad so it will show a lot of things you don't want but most things you do should be there. If you look often you'll find they pop up in the $5-20 range frequently. And those are the Swiss/German/French gauges that are a few hundred retail. There are some new ones from China that go for $45.
Here's a 10-100g
Sherr Tumico like one of my gauges and an
Arpo that looks good.