Are you looking to try a mechanical keyboard for the first time? Everyone has to begin somewhere, but for newcomers to the hobby it can be overwhelming if you’re not aware of a few basic attributes associated with each of the primary mechanical keyboard switch types.
Let’s start by ignoring the many different brands and variations of mechanical keyboard switches and just focus on the three main switch types you’ll most likely encounter in your search: Clicky, Tactile and Linear.
Clicky Switches
A clicky switch does exactly as the name implies. They feature a distinct click sound that can be heard when the switch is fully actuated. Clicky switches also offer feedback in the form of tactile resistance that must be overcome to actuate the switch and register a keystroke. They often have hysteresis, which is generally considered an undesirable trait for gaming purposes.
Clicky switches are the preferred switch type among heavy typist and those who want clear indication that a keystroke has fully registered. Those wanting a quiet mechanical keyboard for the office should probably steer clear, but if you’re on a quest for maximum WPM this switch type will suit you well. The Japanese manufactured Filco Majestouch 2 is an example of a premium build full size mechanical keyboard in standard ANSI layout that uses traditional clicky style MX switches (Cherry Blue).
Tactile Switches
Tactile switches have a small tactile bump that provides resistance which can be felt at the point of key actuation. The switch itself is practically inaudible, omitting the click sound present in clicky switches. Tactile switches are versatile performers that cope well with a variety of different typing tasks.
When playing MMO’s and games that require frequent communication they’re quieter than clicky switches (won’t annoy friends over a mic) and generally offer a better feel than linear switches for pure typing experiences.
Tactile switches usually have little to no hysteresis. No standout strengths, but no glaring weaknesses either. The Durgod Taurus K320 is a high quality Tenkeyless mechanical keyboard available with tactile switches (Cherry MX Brown).
Linear Switches
Linear switches are coveted for their quiet, smooth action that’s free of any interference from tactility. The keystroke is a straight downward drop with no tactile bump or click leaf. Linear switches themselves are close to silent, but easy to bottom out depending on the actuation force required from the spring strength.
When a key is bottomed out the plastic on plastic impact results in noise, not the switch itself. This particular noise can be mitigated with the use of O-rings, factory dampened switches and other silencing products; though keep in mind adding dampeners will likely decrease the travel distance of the switch and alter the key feel.
Cherry MX Reds are a light (45g actuation force) linear switch often targeted by gamers looking for a responsive switch with no hysteresis to help with effectiveness when performing rapid, repeated keystrokes. Generally not ideal for heavy typing (though personal preferences vary) as the light actuation force and complete absence of feedback can lead to more frequent typos for users not accustom to a linear switch. The Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition is a mechanical keyboard in TKL form factor that’s built specifically for competitive gaming. It features optical linear switches that deliver ultra fast response times when registering each key press.
Personal Preference Is Key
Just because clicky switches are most often recommended for the best typing experience, linear for fast paced gaming and tactile for general purpose use doesn’t mean those are the switch types you’ll favor in each scenario. Getting experience with all three of the main switch type before making a decision is critical. This can be accomplished with help from a cheap switch tester, a small board with various types of mechanical switches installed that allows you to try before you buy.
Or if you really want the ability to easily replace and try out new switches consider a mechanical keyboard with hot swappable sockets. These types of modular sockets literally allow the switches to be snapped in and pulled back out without having to desolder then resolder the contacts. Replacing hot swap switches is very easy and fast. Anyone can do it.
Switch tester kit with O-rings and keycap puller tool.
Good Info, and i really was looking for something like this.
This is very easily understood by layman like me.
Thanks a lot.
Cheers!!
So for the most silent solution a linear switch with O rings would be the best choice.
The O rings help reduce the noise from bottoming out.
This was a very well-written intro to the different key switch types out there…thanks for alleviating my first world dilemma lolol. Seriously though, this did help.
This really helped me thx
So a linear keyboard is best for gaming? I bought a Havit mechanical keyboard that was heavily marketed as a gaming keyboard, but it was only available with clicky switches. I do like the keyboard. It feels and sounds very nice to type on, but I mostly game. Would linear have been a better choice in that case?
@Beavis I think that would depend on your preference and environment. If you (1) are in a work environment, (2)have roomate(s)/other people in the house/flat that does not like the clicking sounds, or (3)are annoyed by the sound and/or tactile feedback of the clicky switch, then the linears (if not other clicky switches) would have been better. But if none of the three conditions above is true, then that should be fine.
Yes and no, if you have been playing for a while and you feel ok, then you went with the right choice…
They talk about linears being better because in games like League of legends you have to repeatedly type the same key over and over and, with the clicky switches, in the way up after bottoming out there is some difference in the point the switch becomes actually deactived and the point where actually hear the “click”(hysteresis)
As a result, it makes it a bit more imprecise at really high speeds. But mind my words, if you are not a world champion with world champion fingers and reflexes you will be just fine and possibly enjoy the clickiness more than a linear switch…especially if you type a lot…
This is helpful. Thank you!
So I like playing games and I have lots of work, so should I get Linear or Tacticle.
Tactile for sure… very few people will have a good experience with linears for general purpose…
The fact that they are more prefered for gaming is simply because very serious gamers prefer them… but honestly it will not make you play better…and you might miss a good experience by not having the tactile feel when typing a lot for your work…
I found myself frequently activating keys accidentally with linear switches. At the end of the day, Cherry MX Browns were the “just right” for me. I prefer the tactile feel of those over the linear Reds. They have the same operating force, actuation points, and travel distances but just give me better feedback, overall. The linear switches don’t make me a better player, they make me worse!
This! Linear is really bad for (especially) competitive fps games like csgo (etc). I found my aim performance becoming worse with the linears (less consistency, more misses in flick shots, etc) than with tactile. I really don’t understand the marketing over linears. The lack of the bump makes it feedback less, meaning you don’t the certainty feeling that you’ve activate the key. Causes issues at the subconscious/autonomic level when playing.