Mechanical coaxial switches, which rely on physical movement of internal components to establish or break connections, typically exhibit slower switching speeds compared to solid-state alternatives. The mechanical design involves moving parts that require time to accelerate, move to the target position, and stabilize, introducing inherent delays.

Precision engineering of internal components, optimized electrical pathways, and high-quality materials can minimize signal delays and enhance switching agility. The driving mechanism of the switch also plays a role; switches with efficient, low-latency control circuits can initiate and complete switching actions more quickly than those with less sophisticated control systems.

Extreme temperatures, humidity, or vibration can affect the performance of mechanical components, potentially slowing down switching or introducing inconsistencies. Solid-state switches, being less susceptible to environmental fluctuations, tend to maintain more consistent switching speeds across varying operating conditions.

In practical applications, the required switching speed varies depending on the system's purpose. High-speed communication systems demand switches that can route signals rapidly to support high data transfer rates. Test and measurement setups also benefit from fast-switching coaxial switches, as they enable quick reconfiguration of test circuits and improve measurement efficiency.