Nowadays every work depends on the computer. Whether you are an office worker, programmer, work from home or a gamer, having a computer is very important. But you will not be able to do it just with a computer, you need a good super keyboard. And when it comes to keyboard, the most important thing is to choose the mechanical keyboard switch type.
A mechanical keyboard is considered the best for its durability, speed, and typing comfort. But not every mechanical keyboard is the same. Every keyboard has different types of switches, which change the feel, sound and performance of the keyboard.
Mechanical keyboards are of many types, like – some switches are soft and smooth, some provide tactile feedback, and some even make a sudden “click” sound. So if you are confused about mechanical keyboard switch types, which one is what and which one provides what features – this guide is for you.
In this blog, we will explain in a simple way for you all the popular mechanical keyboard switch types – what are their pros & cons, best use cases, and how you can find the best switch for yourself in 2025.
Let’s get started!
Whenever you press any key on the computer keyboard, there is a mechanism underneath that key which sends a signal to the computer. In mechanical keyboards this mechanism is a separate mechanism switch.
Every mechanical switch has 3 basic parts:
- Stem – This is the part located under the keycap that moves when you press the key. The design of the stem determines whether the switch is linear or tactile.
- Spring – Located under the stem, it pushes the key back. The strength of the spring determines how much force is required to press the key.
- Housing – This protects and structures the switch.
Compared to membrane keyboards, mechanical switches are more:
- Durable (over 50 million keystrokes)
- Customizable (you can change the keycap/switch)
- Accurate and responsive
2. Types of Mechanical Keyboard Switch Type
2.1 Linear Switches – Smooth and Silent
Linear switches feel absolutely smooth because they don’t have any tactile or cliché sound. When you press the key, the key moves straight in without any interruption.
- Feel: Butter-smooth
- Sound: Very quiet (especially Red switches)
- Actuation Force: Light to moderate
- Best For: Ideal for gaming because they support fast double-taps and movements
Examples: Cherry MX Red, Gateron Red
2.2 Tactile Switches – Comfortable with Feedback
Tactile switches have a small bump below the keypress which you feel when the key is registered. This gives physical feedback without much sound.
- Feel: Noticeable bump with smooth travel
- Sound: Quiet but not silent
- Actuation Force: Medium
- Best For: Great for typing and office work due to feedback without noise
Examples: Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Brown
2.3 Clicky Switches – Loud and Satisfying
Clicky switches give an audible click as well as a tactile bump. These are perfect for people who enjoy both sound and feedback while typing.
- Feel: Bump + Click
- Sound: Loud click sound
- Actuation Force: Medium to high
- Best For: Writers, typists who like to feel and hear every keystroke
Examples: Cherry MX Blue, Kailh Box White
3. Switch Comparison Table – Easy Summary
Switch Type
Linear
Tactile
Clicky
Tactile Feedback
❌
✅
✅
Click Sound
❌
❌
✅
Actuation Force
Low
Medium
Medium-High
Best For
Gaming
Typing+Office
Writing / Feedback
4. Popular Mechanical Keyboard Switch Type Brands
4.1 Cherry MX
- Most trusted and industry-standard switches
- Available in all switch types: Red, Brown, Blue, etc.
- Long-lasting (up to 100 million keystrokes)
4.2 Gateron
- Known for smoothness
- Affordable alternative to Cherry MX
- Same color coding (e.g., Gateron Red = Cherry Red)
4.3 Kailh
- Offers a wide variety of custom switches
- Famous for Box-style switches
- Good build quality and affordability
4.5 Razer
- Makes switches optimized for gaming
- Green, Orange, Yellow – for different gamer needs
4.6 Logitech Romer-G
- Logitech’s own switch design
- Shorter travel = faster performance
- Quiet and durable – great for gaming and office use
5. How to Choose the Right Switch Type?
Choosing the right switch depends on your personal usage and preferences:
Use-Case Based:
- Gaming: Linear (Red, Yellow)
- Typing: Tactile (Brown) or Clicky (Blue)
- Office/Quiet Room: Silent Linear or Silent Tactile
Sound Preference:
- Want quiet: Linear or Silent Red/Brown Like
- clicky sound: Blue or Green switches
Feel Preference:
- Light and fast feel: Linear
- Controlled with feedback: Tactile
- Feedback + Sound: Clicky
Switch Tester:
The best way to try them is to buy a switch tester kit that lets you press and feel different types before choosing. mechanical keyboard switch type .
6. FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are mechanical keyboard switches better than membrane?
➡ Yes! Mechanical switches are more accurate, durable, and responsive.
Q2: Can mechanical switches be replaced?
If your keyboard is hot-swappable, you can replace switches without soldering.
Q3: What is the lifespan of a mechanical switch?
➡ Typically 50 to 100 million keystrokes – highly durable for everyday use.
Q4: Which is the quietest switch?
Cherry MX Silent Red or Gateron Silent Brown are best for quiet environments.
Conclusion
So friends, now you have got very clear information about mechanical keyboard switch types. And you also know which mechanical keyboard switch type you should buy. Each switch type has its own unique feel, sound, and performance. If you are planning to buy a new keyboard, you can select it according to your case.
If you liked this type of blog, don’t forget to comment and do share it! We will soon share our recommended mechanical keyboards as well – so stay connected with the blog!
Thank you!
