A key switch assembly for interposition between a PCB and a cover plate for actuating a contact element such as a snap dome. The key switch includes a body having a cantilever actuator arm hingedly secured to the body. The body is located with respect to the cover plate by means of an upwardly extending dowel pin. The underside of the actuator arm carries a generally cylindrical striker element which when the arm is depressed engages the snap dome in line contact. The upper surface of the actuator arm has a mounting projection which projects through an aperture in the cover plate and is adapted to receive a key cap. Manual pressure applied to the key cap will cause the actuator arm to pivot about hinge section bringing the striker element into contact with the snap dome.