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