Mechanical Keyboard Switches — Linear, Tactile, Clicky & Silent

August 26, 2025

Mechanical Keyboard Switches — Linear, Tactile, Clicky & Silent

Mechanical Keyboard Switches: Finding Your Perfect Feel

Switches are the heartbeat of a mechanical keyboard. They define how each keystroke feels, sounds, and responds. Choosing the right one is the difference between a tool that just works—and one that feels made for you.


The Four Main Switch Types

Switch Type Feel Sound Best For
Linear Smooth, no tactile bump Quiet to moderate Gaming, fast typing
Tactile Noticeable bump at actuation Moderate, muted Office use, balanced feedback
Clicky Tactile bump + audible click Loud, crisp Typists, streamers, private setups
Silent Linear or tactile with dampening Extra quiet Shared spaces, late-night typing

1. Linear Switches

  • How they feel: Smooth press from top to bottom, no bump.

  • Sound: Softer, consistent.

  • Who they suit: Gamers and speed typists who value fast actuation.

  • Popular picks: Gateron Red, Cherry MX Red.

👉 Shop linear switches


2. Tactile Switches

  • How they feel: A small bump in the middle of the press, giving feedback without noise.

  • Sound: Quieter than clicky, but still offers presence.

  • Who they suit: Office professionals, writers, coders—those who type a lot and want assurance without distraction.

  • Popular picks: Gateron Brown, Boba U4T.

👉 Shop tactile switches


3. Clicky Switches

  • How they feel: A tactile bump paired with a clear click.

  • Sound: Loud, expressive—ranges from sharp “snap” to deeper “clack.”

  • Who they suit: Enthusiasts who enjoy audible, confident typing or content creators who want sound as part of their setup.

  • Popular picks: Gateron Blue, Kailh Box White.

👉 Shop clicky switches


4. Silent Switches

  • How they feel: Similar to linear or tactile, but with rubber dampeners built in.

  • Sound: Extremely quiet, muted at bottom-out and return.

  • Who they suit: Shared spaces, open offices, or night owls who don’t want to disturb others.

  • Popular picks: Gateron Silent Red, Cherry MX Silent Black, Durock Shrimp.

👉 Shop silent switches


Typified Recommendations

  • For gaming setups: Start with linear for speed.

  • For hybrid work + play: Go tactile for balance.

  • For full expression: Try clicky, if noise isn’t a concern.

  • For quiet focus: Choose silent to keep sound low without losing feel.

💡 Tip: Not sure which one fits you? Book a Typified workshop and test all four before deciding.


Next Steps

The right switch makes your keyboard truly yours. From smooth linears to discreet silents, every choice shapes your daily rhythm.


Never Miss a Drop.