Selecting the right key switches can significantly impact your gaming performance, affecting both speed and sound. Here is your guide to choosing the best key switches for gaming. We will dive into 14 best options, explaining the pros and cons of each to help you find your ideal match for victory.
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Name Switch types Price (per switch) Gateron Yellow Pros Linear $0.27 Kailh Speed Coppers Tactile $0.28 Kailh Box Jade Clicky $0.38 Holy Panda X Tactile $0.54 Kailh Box Pinks Clicky $0.59 Gateron North Pole 2.0 Yellow Linear $0.69 Gateron Ink Black Linear $0.8 Gateron Yellows Linear $0.85 Kailh Box Silent Pink Linear $0.96 Cherry MX Red Linear $0.99 Razer Red Optical Linear $1.2 Cherry MX Speed Silvers Linear $1.23 Cherry MX Black Linear $1.41 Omnipoint Adjustable Linear Not typically sold separatelyNote: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
Mechanical keyboard switches are the heart of the keyboard, determining its feel and performance. They come in various types, offering different tactile feedback, actuation forces, and sound levels to suit individual preferences and gaming styles. These switches come in three main types:
Tech Specs:
Gamers seeking the best switch mechanical keyboard should look no further than Cherry MX switches family, especially Cherry MX Speed Silvers. These linear switches are known for their hair-trigger actuation point, which means you can register key presses incredibly fast. This is ideal for fast-paced games where every millisecond counts.
Not only are they fast, but Cherry MX Speed Silvers are also very smooth and consistent, making them comfortable for extended gaming sessions. Plus, they're incredibly durable, lasting up to 100 million keystrokes, so you can be sure they'll withstand even the most intense gaming sessions.
Pros ConsYou can check out this video by Cherry MX to have detailed explanation about this best type of switches for gaming:
Tech Specs:
For gamers, the best switch mechanical keyboard needs to have a balance of speed, smoothness, and a satisfying feel. Enter the Gateron Yellows, the linear switches that become favorite amongst budget-minded gamers seeking exceptional performance.
Compared to Gateron Red switches, Gateron Yellow switches have a slightly heavier actuation force at around 50g, offering smooth linear keystrokes ideal for gaming, while Red’s actuation force is 45g, providing a lighter touch for users who prefer a responsive and effortless typing experience without tactile feedback. You can consider these switches based on your typing/gaming style.
Moreover, unlike tactile or clicky switches, Gateron Yellows offer a clean travel with minimal resistance, perfectly to rapid key sequences, ideal for fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. They are also built to withstand the test of time, boasting a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes. This translates to years of reliable performance, making them a smart investment for heavy keyboard users.
Pros ConsYou can watch this review to get a real feel about their smoothness, helping you make informed decisions:
Tech Specs:
In the best mechanical switches for gaming world, linear switches are usually recommended. But for those who like tactile switches, Kailh Speed Coppers are among the top choices for mechanical keyboards.
These switches are built for lightning-fast gaming. Their light actuation and minimal key travel allow for rapid keystrokes without sacrificing accuracy, perfect for clutch online battles. These switches are also incredibly durable, lasting up to 50 million keystrokes, so you can dominate the competition for years to come.
Pros ConsTech Specs:
For gamers who thrive on the auditory and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, Kailh Box Pinks stand out as a top choice for the best clicky gaming switch. With Kailh Box Pinks, you can experience a crisp, satisfying click sound that provides clear actuation feedback, enhancing your in-game awareness and accuracy. Read a full review here.
This best type of switches for gaming promote long-lasting performance and reduce maintenance needs because its innovative box design safeguards the switch from dust and debris. In addition, these switches deliver premium clicky goodness without a hefty price tag, making them a fantastic value for gamers on budget.
Pros ConsDo you want to see how the best mechanical switches for gaming performs? Let’s dive into Kailh Box Pink’s review and sound test:
Tech Specs:
Razer Red Optical switches use light for lightning-fast key registration, perfect for competitive gaming. Plus, they boast a massive 100 million keystroke lifespan, lasting for years of intense use. Despite the light actuation force, they deliver a satisfying keypress with a clear actuation point, enhancing your in-game precision.
These switches kick it into high gear with Razer HyperPolling for an 8x faster connection (from Hz to Hz) between your Razer mouse and PC, delivering near-instantaneous response for ultimate competitive edge.
Pros ConsTech Specs:
Cherry MX Red have strong brand recognition and are popular choices for the best switch mechanical keyboard. They offer a smooth keypress without a tactile bump or clicky sound, allowing for rapid key sequences. The low actuation force requires minimal pressure to register a keystroke, promoting faster key presses. More than that, it is also renowned for their exceptional durability, withstanding up to 100 million keystrokes - double the industry standard.
If you want to see some top options featuring these smooth linear lightweight mechanical switches in the red color, find your perfect match here.
Pros ConsTech Specs:
Holy Panda X switches offer a delightful and pronounced tactile bump, providing clear actuation feedback for precise in-game control. Compared to original Holy Pandas, the X variant boasts a slightly lighter actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
The sound of Holy Panda X is a pleasant thocky sound, offering a quieter alternative to clicky switches while providing some auditory feedback.
The reason why Holy Panda X is one of the best mechanical switches for gaming is that its switches fall within a mid-range price point compared to premium switches.
Pros ConsYou can get all the details about Holy Panda X switches in the review below:
Tech Specs:
The reason why Kailh Box Jade is one of the best mechanical keyboard switches for gaming is that they are renowned for their loud, clicky sound and pronounced bump, making them a popular choice among gamers who crave a satisfying typing and gaming experience.
These switches boast a dustproof and water-resistant design so they are resilient to spills and dust buildup, a plus for long-term use. However, the extreme clickiness, potentially excessive actuation force, and somewhat mushy feel might be drawbacks.
Moreover, people also consider Kailh Box and Gateron switches and usually bring them into comparison to find the perfect fit for their keyboard. Click here if you are in the same situation.
Pros ConsDon't settle for just reading about the best key switches for gaming! Watch this side-by-side video to see how it performs:
Tech Specs:
Another best switch mechanical keyboard is Cherry MX Black. These switches are legendary for their exceptional durability and smooth linear keypress.
In detail, they boast a lifespan rated for a staggering 100 million keystrokes, ensuring years of reliable performance, ideal for gamers who demand long-lasting switches.
But, Cherry MX Blacks are not ideal switches for all game genres because the lack of tactile feedback might make them less suitable for games where precise actuation is crucial.
Pros ConsIf you are curious about linear sound of the best type of switches for gaming, come hear and see through this video:
Tech Specs:
Gateron Ink Blacks are factory-lubed for a buttery-smooth keypress, skipping the hassle of DIY lubing. Their design minimizes friction further. Remember, "smoothness" can be subjective, so explore options to find the best gaming keyboard switches for your feel.
Related Article:
For a complete picture of Gateron Ink Black's performance and user experience, head over to the linked review video and get all the details you need:
Tech Specs:
Gateron Yellow Pro switches are strong contenders for the best mechanical switches for gaming. These Pro switches boast an increased lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes, compared to the standard Gateron Yellow switches which typically offer around 50 million keystrokes.
Additionally, they exhibit a smoother keystroke feel, with reduced friction and enhanced consistency, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions and gaming marathons alike.
Pros ConsGet an up-close look at the build quality and functionality of these top contenders of the best key switches for gaming in this detailed review video:
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Tech Specs:
The reason why Gateron North Pole 2.0 Yellow becomes one of the best mechanical switches for gaming is an upgraded structure based on the original North Pole switch.
In addition, with a fully transparent body and a light-gathering structure, North Pole 2.0 Yellow switches bring a brighter and more vivid lighting display compared to switches with opaque housings. It’s extremely suitable for those who want a luminous RGB experience.
Pros ConsAnd now, let’s see the upgrade of 2.0 ver compared with the original through this video and you will know why it is the best type of switches for gaming:
Tech Specs:
Kailh BOX Silent Pink switches are a suitable choice for the best key switches for gaming or any situation where you want to type with minimal noise. They are an extremely stable, non-wobbly switch, similar to classic Box Pinks but without the clickiness.
With a total travel distance of 3.6mm, these switches promote faster actuation compared to some other silent switches, potentially leading to a more responsive feel in games.
However, for gamers who love these pink switches, they might be less readily available and require searching for compatible keyboards or purchasing switches separately.
Pros ConsConsidering among the best mechanical switches for gaming? This reviewer will help you decide if Kailh Box Silent Pink’s quiet performance and feel are the perfect one for you.
Tech Specs:
SteelSeries boasts their OmniPoint Adjustable switches as the pinnacle of customization for gamers. A special point of these switches is that they dike the traditional essence splint and contact points rather, it uses attractions.
Compared to the OmniPoint 1.0 switches, the 2.0 switches boast a 50% faster actuation and a 33% swiffer response time. With the 2.0 switches, users have the flexibility to customize the actuation point within a range of 0.2 mm to 3.8 mm, whereas the 1.0 switches were constrained to a range of 0.4 mm to 3.6 mm.
Pros ConsAre OmniPoint Adjustable the best mechanical keyboard switches for gaming? Let’s check this out:
When choosing the best key switches for gaming, you should consider the following factors to find out perfect key switches that suit your gaming preferences and enhance your overall gaming performance.
1- Actuation force
The actuation force is the amount of force needed to register a keystroke. Lighter actuation force switches are often preferred for gaming as they allow for faster and more responsive key presses.
2- Latency
When choosing the best key switches for gaming, latency is a crucial factor. It directly impacts the response time between your keypress and the in-game action. Lower latency translates to faster on-screen response, giving you a competitive advantage in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts.
3- Noise level
Some key switches are louder than others when pressed. If you prefer a quieter gaming experience, consider switches with low noise levels.
4- RGB lightning
RGB lighting is cool, but for the best type of switches for gaming, focus on performance. While fancy lights look nice, features like low latency and actuation point have a bigger impact on your gameplay. Choose switches based on feel, sound, and responsiveness, not just flashy colors.
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5- Durability
When considering the durability of the best key switches for gaming, you need to look for switches rated for a high number of keystrokes to ensure longevity.
6- Customizable actuation
Customizable actuation lets you fine-tune how much you press a key to register a keystroke. This can be helpful for gamers who want to optimize responsiveness for their playstyle. While not a must-have, it adds another option for the best switch keyboard for gaming.
Note: Additionally, for the best typing and gaming experience, besides switch types, you can also consider keyboard layout factors. The most common layouts today are AZERTY and QWERTY, while more advanced options include Dvorak and Colemak layouts.
In conclusion, through the list of 14 switch options , we hope those guides and recommendations empower you to narrow down your search and make an informed decision. Remember, the best key switches for gaming is the one that elevates your gameplay and complements your style.
Not necessarily. But gaming switches can offer faster response or better durability then you can consider these advantages.
It depends on personal preference. However, the red or silver switches are the most famous among gamers because of their effortless keypress and faster response time.
You just need to follow your personal preference. All of them can work well for gaming with their own potentials such as linear (fast and smooth), tactile (nice middle ground between feedback and speed), and clicky (improve keystroke accuracy).
Shorter actuation distance (the travel needed to register a keypress) can be beneficial for faster response times in competitive games. However, some gamers prefer a longer throw for better keystroke control.
There's no single answer as it depends on the individual player. Many pro gamers use linear red or black switches for their speed. In contrast, some still prefer tactile browns for the balance between feedback and actuation.
Many online retailers and computer parts stores sell mechanical keyboards and individual switches. Some popular options include: Mechanical keyboard stores, Amazon, Newegg.
Electrical boxes are an essential component in any electrical system, serving as a hub for electrical connections and wiring. Whether you’re working on a residential, commercial, or industrial project, understanding the role of electrical boxes is crucial for ensuring safety and functionality.
The primary function of an electrical box is to create a safe environment for electrical connections by shielding them from accidental contact. Without an electrical box, wiring connections could become exposed, leading to potential risks such as short circuits, electrical fires, or shock hazards. Electrical boxes are typically installed during the construction or renovation of buildings and are key to maintaining a compliant and safe electrical system.
The purpose of electrical boxes also extends to organizing the wiring system. By containing wires in a single, accessible location, they allow for easier maintenance and troubleshooting. Electrical boxes also act as a point of transition between the electrical wiring and the connected devices, such as switches, outlets, or lighting fixtures.
Choosing the right type of electrical box is essential for safe and code-compliant installations. In Electrical boxes can be categorized according to various benchmarks, which help in selecting the appropriate type for different projects. These benchmarks include material composition, functional purpose, and shape, among others. We explore these different classifications in the following briefly.
Electrical boxes are also classified by their intended function, with specific designs tailored to support different electrical needs.
Electrical boxes come in different shapes, which play a role in their installation and use, particularly when dealing with specific wiring configurations.
Electrical boxes are primarily divided into metal and non-metallic types based on their material.
In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the various types of electrical boxes based on the classifications mentioned above. We hope this information helps you better understand electrical boxes and enables you to choose the right one for your project.
Junction boxes are one of the most common types of electrical boxes, designed to protect and manage wiring connections in both residential and commercial settings.
Junction boxes come in different shapes to suit different installation situations and environments.
A square or rectangular junction box provides a compact yet spacious design with a square shape that allows for multiple conduits to enter from different directions. This design makes it ideal for managing several wire connections in larger installations, with additional space at the corners to house more conductors, connectors, or splices.
Square or rectangular junction boxes are commonly used in residential lighting, commercial wiring, and more complex industrial electrical systems. Available in both plastic and metal, they offer durability and versatility for various electrical installations.
A round pan junction box is circular and typically used for ceiling-mounted light fixtures and small wall lighting installations. These shallow boxes are designed for low-voltage connections where space is limited, making them ideal for simpler applications. The round shape allows for easy installation in confined areas, particularly in ceiling and wall lighting setups. However, they are best suited for installations with limited electrical demands, as their size restricts the number of wire connections they can accommodate.
In contrast, the octagonal junction box provides slightly more interior space than a round box, featuring eight sides that offer stability and room for additional wiring. This design makes it suitable for heavier installations, such as ceiling fans or larger light fixtures, where more connections or splices are required.
An electrical circular junction box is a flexible, round-shaped box designed to accommodate different wiring configurations, making it suitable for a variety of electrical installations. These boxes are widely used in both residential and commercial environments, where cables need to be connected or branched in multiple directions. Depending on the wiring requirements, these junction boxes can offer various entry and exit points for conduits or cables.
Weatherproof electrical boxes are specifically designed to protect electrical connections and devices from harsh outdoor conditions. So called adaptable box. These boxes are essential for installations exposed to rain, snow, dust, and other environmental factors. They are built to meet certain standards for water and dust resistance, ensuring that the electrical components inside remain safe and operational despite external weather conditions.
An outlet box is a small, enclosed fixture that houses electrical connections for outlets. Outlet boxes help organize and protect wiring, prevent electrical fires, and maintain the integrity of your home’s electrical system.
To help with understanding, we will categorize outlet boxes in the following ways.
Installation Type Intended Environment Size & Structure Old work outlet boxes Indoor outlet boxes Single-gang outlet boxes New work outlet boxes Outdoor outlet boxes Double/multiple gang outlet boxesOld work outlet boxes are specially designed for retrofitting electrical outlets in existing walls where no electrical boxes currently exist. These boxes are ideal for scenarios where walls have already been finished with drywall or plaster, allowing for the addition of outlets without the need for extensive renovations.
New work outlet boxes are used primarily in construction projects where the walls are open and accessible, such as during the initial framing stages of new homes or major renovations. These boxes provide a solid foundation for electrical outlets, ensuring they are properly supported within the wall structure.
Outdoor outlet boxes must withstand harsher conditions compared to their indoor counterparts. Consequently, their design includes several crucial considerations:
Single-gang outlet boxes hold one electrical outlet or switch and are ideal for small spaces, making them cost-effective and easy to install. However, they limit functionality to just one connection.
In contrast, double-gang outlet boxes can accommodate two outlets or a combination of outlets and switches, providing more versatility for areas with higher electrical needs. While they require more wall space, their ability to serve multiple devices makes them a better choice in busy environments.
A switch electrical box is an enclosure that protects electrical connections and provides a mounting point for switches. Made from materials such as plastic or metal, these boxes are designed to accommodate various switch types, from standard light switches to more complex dimmers and timers. The primary purpose of a switch box is to contain the wiring connections securely while providing a surface for the switch itself, making it easy to operate electrical devices.
The importance of switch electrical boxes cannot be overstated. They play a critical role in ensuring safety and compliance with electrical codes. By enclosing electrical connections, these boxes help prevent accidental contact with live wires, reducing the risk of electrical shock or fire. Additionally, proper installation of switch boxes contributes to the overall aesthetics of a space, as they can be neatly integrated into walls and ceilings.
While both switch and outlet boxes serve as enclosures for electrical connections, their functions differ significantly. Switch boxes are specifically designed to hold switches that control the flow of electricity to devices like lights and fans.
In contrast, outlet boxes are intended for electrical outlets that provide power to appliances and devices. Outlet boxes typically accommodate multiple wires for power distribution, whereas switch boxes focus on connecting a switch to a single circuit.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the right type of box for your electrical installation needs.
The choice of material for electrical junction boxes can significantly impact the safety, durability, and performance of an electrical system. Various materials are used to meet specific environmental, structural, and cost requirements. This section delves deeper into the materials used for junction boxes, outlining their advantages, drawbacks, and best-use scenarios.
Plastic junction boxes, primarily made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), are popular for their versatility and durability. These materials are especially suited for residential and light commercial applications, particularly in environments where moisture or chemical exposure is a concern.
Fiberglass is a composite material made of plastic reinforced with glass fibers. It is strong and resistant to harsh environments, making it popular for demanding industrial and outdoor applications.
Selecting the right electrical box for a project is essential to ensuring safety, functionality, and compliance with regulations. Various factors must be considered, such as the size and capacity of the box, whether it will be used indoors or outdoors, fire safety considerations, and the number of wires that the box needs to accommodate. Each of these elements influences the safety of the electrical system, the ease of installation, and long-term performance.
One of the most critical considerations when selecting an electrical box is its size and capacity. Electrical boxes come in a variety of sizes, and choosing the wrong size can lead to safety hazards, installation challenges, and non-compliance with electrical codes.
It’s important to consider the following:
General Guidelines for Box Size:
Choosing a box that can accommodate the number of wires and devices ensures a safer installation and helps meet NEC compliance requirements.
Another crucial consideration is whether the electrical box will be installed indoors or outdoors. Each environment presents different challenges, and the electrical box must be suited to the conditions in which it will be used.
Proper installation of electrical boxes is crucial for ensuring both safety and functionality in any electrical system.
When selecting electrical boxes, it’s crucial to ensure they meet the required ratings and standards to guarantee safety, performance, and compliance. Electrical boxes often face harsh environmental conditions, such as dust, moisture, and physical impact, so their ratings reflect their durability and protective capabilities. This section will explore the most critical ratings and standards applied to electrical boxes, including IP, NEMA, UL, and NEC.
IP65: Dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. This rating is common for outdoor and industrial boxes.
IP66: Dust-tight and protected against powerful water jets, making it suitable for harsher environments such as industrial or coastal areas.
IP67: Dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for a short time, ideal for locations where temporary submersion is possible.
We sometimes see other letters after the second digit that refer to other protection
F = Oil resistant
H = High voltage apparatus
M = Motion during water test
S = Stationary during water test
W = Weather conditions
The letter K is specified in ISO (replacing DIN -9) and not in IEC .
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) provides a standardized rating system that defines the level of protection electrical boxes offer against environmental conditions. NEMA ratings are most commonly used in North America and describe the enclosure’s ability to protect electrical components against hazards like dust, dirt, water, oil, and corrosive materials.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is an independent safety certification organization that tests and certifies products, including electrical boxes, to ensure they meet strict safety standards. UL-listed electrical boxes are approved for specific uses and environments, providing users with peace of mind that the products comply with recognized safety standards.
UL Types UL-Listed Enclosures Type 1 Only for indoor use. They provide a degree of protection against contact with the enclosed electrical equipment and against a limited amount of falling dirt. Type 2 Only for indoor use. They provide a degree of protection against limited amounts of dripping water and falling dirt. Type 3 For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against windblown dust, rain, and sleet. Any external electrical mechanisms remain operable even while ice-laden. Type 3R For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against falling rain and sleet. Electrical equipment remains undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure. Type 3S For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against windblown dust, rain, and sleet. Electrical equipment remains undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure. Type 4 For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against splashing water, windblown dust or rain, and hose-directed water. Electrical equipment remains undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure. Type 4X For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against splashing water, windblown dust or rain, and hose-directed water. Electrical equipment remains undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure. They resist corrosion too. Type 6 For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against water entry during temporary submersion at a limited depth. Electrical equipment remains undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure. Type 6P For indoor or outdoor use. They provide a degree of protection against the entry of water during prolonged submersion at a limited depth. Type 11 For indoor use. They provide a degree of protection for enclosed electrical equipment against corrosive effects of corrosive liquids and gases. Type 12 For indoor use. They provide a degree of protection against dust, falling dirt, and dripping non-corrosive liquids. Type12K For Indoor use. They provide a degree of protection against dust, falling dirt, and dripping non-corrosive liquids. They are constructed with knockouts. Type 13 For Indoor use. They provide a degree of protection against dust and spraying of water, oil, and noncorrosive coolants.Ctube offers a comprehensive range of high-quality electrical boxes, including switch boxes, circular junction boxes, and adaptable boxes. All of these boxes are meticulously designed to comply with relevant industry standards, ensuring maximum safety and reliability.
Our electrical boxes boast the V0 fire rating, making them resistant to flames, ensuring enhanced protection in critical situations. Additionally, they feature waterproof and UV-protected materials, providing durability and performance in both indoor and outdoor environments.
For specialized needs, Ctube offers low-smoke halogen-free and solar series boxes. The low-smoke halogen-free series is ideal for areas where reducing toxic emissions is crucial, while the solar series is engineered for long-lasting outdoor use, offering greater resistance to UV exposure.
To choose the right size electrical box, consider the number of wires, devices (like switches or outlets), and the box’s fill capacity. The National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidelines, such as each 14-gauge wire requiring about 2 cubic inches of space. Ensure the box is large enough to avoid overcrowding, which can cause overheating. For outdoor or moisture-prone areas, use weatherproof boxes. If future expansion is likely, choose a box with extra capacity. Always check that the box meets NEC standards for safety.
According to the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 314, electrical junction boxes must remain accessible for maintenance, repairs, and inspections. This means they cannot be permanently concealed behind walls, ceilings, floors, or other structures. The primary reason for this rule is safety—junction boxes contain wire connections, and if an issue arises, such as loose connections or a short circuit, the box needs to be accessible to address the problem.
If junction boxes are hidden behind surfaces, it becomes difficult to inspect or repair the wiring without cutting through the material, which can lead to additional hazards or even violate local building codes. To ensure compliance, junction boxes must either be located in a place that allows easy access or have removable covers that can be opened without damaging walls or structures. However, they can be concealed by removable panels, cabinets, or access doors, as long as they are not permanently obstructed.
Yes, an adaptable box can extend electrical conduit systems. It allows additional conduits to be connected, creating a seamless expansion of the system. Inside the box, wiring connections are safely enclosed, protected from moisture, dust, and physical damage. It’s especially useful when changing conduit directions, branching off to new areas, or adding new equipment.
By providing multiple entry points for conduits, adaptable boxes also offer flexibility in system design while ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They help make future modifications or expansions easier and safer.
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