{"id":21555,"date":"2023-01-25T16:38:33","date_gmt":"2023-01-25T15:38:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/g100.us\/?p=21555"},"modified":"2023-01-25T16:38:38","modified_gmt":"2023-01-25T15:38:38","slug":"linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/","title":{"rendered":"Linear vs. Tactile vs. Clicky Mechanical Keyboard Switches [There's One That Suits You Best]"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_39 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">TABLE OF CONTENTS<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66844b1b42fc2\" class=\"cssicon\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;direction:ltr;\"><svg style=\"fill: #7f11e0;color:#7f11e0\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\" \/><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #7f11e0;color:#7f11e0\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\" \/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66844b1b42fc2\" class=\"cssiconcheckbox\">1<\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-66844b1b42fc2\" checked><nav><ul class=\"ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 \"><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Mechanical_Keyboard_Switches_-_Which_One_Is_Best\" title=\"Mechanical Keyboard Switches \u2014 Which One Is Best?\">Mechanical Keyboard Switches \u2014 Which One Is Best?<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Linear_Mechanical_Switches_-_Fast_Responsive_Smooth\" title=\"Linear Mechanical Switches \u2014 Fast, Responsive, Smooth\">Linear Mechanical Switches \u2014 Fast, Responsive, Smooth<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Tactile_Mechanical_Switches_-_Best_Option_All-Around\" title=\"Tactile Mechanical Switches \u2014 Best Option All-Around\">Tactile Mechanical Switches \u2014 Best Option All-Around<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Clicky_Mechanical_Switches_-_Loud_and_Potentially_Obnoxious\" title=\"Clicky Mechanical Switches \u2014 Loud and (Potentially) Obnoxious\">Clicky Mechanical Switches \u2014 Loud and (Potentially) Obnoxious<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Are_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switches_Important\" title=\"Are Mechanical Keyboard Switches Important?\">Are Mechanical Keyboard Switches Important?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Can_I_Swap_Out_My_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switches\" title=\"Can I Swap Out My Mechanical Keyboard Switches?\">Can I Swap Out My Mechanical Keyboard Switches?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Which_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switch_Is_Right_For_Me\" title=\"Which Mechanical Keyboard Switch Is Right For Me?\">Which Mechanical Keyboard Switch Is Right For Me?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#FAQ\" title=\"FAQ\">FAQ<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Which_Mechanical_Switches_Are_Best_for_Gaming\" title=\"Which Mechanical Switches Are Best for Gaming?\">Which Mechanical Switches Are Best for Gaming?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Which_Mechanical_Switches_Are_Best_for_Typing\" title=\"Which Mechanical Switches Are Best for Typing?\">Which Mechanical Switches Are Best for Typing?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Whats_the_Best_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switch\" title=\"What\u2019s the Best Mechanical Keyboard Switch?\">What\u2019s the Best Mechanical Keyboard Switch?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/linear-tactile-clicky-mechanical-keyboard-switches\/#Over_to_You\" title=\"Over to You\">Over to You<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>Mechanical keyboard switches come in various different \u201cflavors.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>There are so many of them, in fact, that it\u2019s quite easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options that are available on the market. And, to make things even <em>more<\/em> complicated, it\u2019s like there\u2019s a brand new switch \u2014 a \u201cnoteworthy\u201d one \u2014 every few weeks!<\/p>\n<p><strong>This <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/low-profile-mechanical-keyboards-guide\/\"><strong>burgeoning segment<\/strong><\/a><strong> of the market is blossoming beyond belief.<\/strong> What was once an obscure thing reserved for hobbyists and the most dedicated enthusiasts among us has now transformed into something much more ubiquitous \u2014 and deservedly so.<\/p>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/guide-to-mechanical-keyboards\/\">mechanical keyboard<\/a> is an absolutely <em>spectacular<\/em> addition to your set-up, no matter your profession or overall workflow. They\u2019re great for typing, gaming, content creation, and everything in between.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Membrane keyboards cannot even hold a candle to all the many splendors that mechanical ones bring to the table.<\/strong> And, well, it\u2019s not even up for debate.<\/p>\n<p>What about the selection process, though? How can one navigate such a vast and seemingly endless list of options, each of which with its own unique allure?<\/p>\n<p>The first and most important step, one could argue, is deciding what kind of switch <em>type<\/em> would best suit your needs and preferences.<\/p>\n<p>So, let\u2019s cover that first before delving any deeper into the nitty-gritty!<\/p>\n<p><noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CbPCqVsX-wQ\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CbPCqVsX-wQ\" class=\" lazyload\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mechanical_Keyboard_Switches_-_Which_One_Is_Best\"><\/span>Mechanical Keyboard Switches \u2014 Which One Is Best?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There\u2019s no universal way to define a pleasurable typing experience.<\/p>\n<p>Different strokes for different folks as the old saying goes. Moreover, it\u2019s hard to fully explain what typing on a mechanical keyboard <em>feels<\/em> like if you\u2019ve never actually experienced it.<\/p>\n<p>And that, combined with the sheer number of variables and options, makes this whole journey a whole lot more complicated than it might seem at first glance.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not <em>just<\/em> about the switch but rather the entire package \u2014 the keyboard itself and all the many elements it is comprised of.<\/p>\n<p>That, however, is a topic for a different time and place, so let\u2019s focus on just the switches themselves for the time being. <strong>What are your options?<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Linear_Mechanical_Switches_-_Fast_Responsive_Smooth\"><\/span>Linear Mechanical Switches \u2014 Fast, Responsive, Smooth<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Linear switches are the smoothest of the bunch. They provide a consistent typing experience and are incredibly quiet (in comparison to tactile and clicky switches, at least).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21560\" style=\"width: 2048px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21560\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21560\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches.jpg\" alt=\"Linear Swtiches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21560\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21560 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Linear Swtiches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Linear-Swtiches.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21560\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logitechg.com\/en-us\/innovation\/mechanical-switches.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Logitech G<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>There's no tactile bump, no additional click to indicate when an actuation has been registered, and they also require the least amount of force in order to actuate (save for a few exceptions).<\/p>\n<p>That's why they're so often referred to as <em>fast<\/em> \u2014 <strong>they actuate the quickest once pressed. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>They <em>do<\/em> vary in their characteristics, though. Some linear switches still offer a stellar typing experience because of their well-balanced nature. Others, however, are so easy to actuate they're basically only good for competitive gaming and little else.<\/p>\n<p>Then again, it's all very subjective.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, linear switches tend to have a shorter travel distance which only further adds to their \u201cspeedy\u201d character.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re amazing for gaming, great for typing (regular ones, at least, like Cherry MX Reds or Gateron Yellows), and won\u2019t do a number on your (or anyone else\u2019s) eardrums.<\/p>\n<p>One thing to keep in mind, though, is that linear switches come in many different flavors. Some, like Cherry MX Speed Silvers, require an astoundingly small amount of force in order to actuate.<\/p>\n<p>Others, like Cherry MX Blacks, are the <em>opposite<\/em> \u2014 they might be linear but easy to type on they certainly are <em>not<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>So, as always, make sure to read the fine print before making any kind of purchasing decision.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tactile_Mechanical_Switches_-_Best_Option_All-Around\"><\/span>Tactile Mechanical Switches \u2014 Best Option All-Around<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You really can\u2019t go wrong with a tactile mechanical switch. They\u2019re amazing for typing and regular day-to-day use but also pretty darn good for gaming, too (but arguably not the best).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21561\" style=\"width: 2048px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21561\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21561\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches.jpg\" alt=\"Tactile Switches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21561\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21561 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Tactile Switches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Tactile-Switches.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21561\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logitechg.com\/en-us\/innovation\/mechanical-switches.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Logitech G<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>They don\u2019t have any inherent drawbacks or flaws. They don\u2019t actuate as fast as linear switches and their sound profile is quite pleasing as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>They\u2019re the best, most well-rounded option.<\/strong> They\u2019re also the only switch type you\u2019re <em>guaranteed<\/em> to like, no matter your profession or use-case.<\/p>\n<p>So, what makes a tactile switch stand out?<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Tactile switches combine the best of both worlds<\/strong>: they\u2019re not as fast as linear ones but are still fast enough (they require a moderate amount of force in order to actuate when depressed), they have a physical tactile bump (most often located near the actuation point), and most often have a well balanced sound profile (i.e. they\u2019re not particularly loud no matter your typing speed).<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>That\u2019s what makes them \u201cbeginner friendly.\u201d<\/strong> They\u2019re great for all sorts of use-cases and are the perfect switch to start off with.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Clicky_Mechanical_Switches_-_Loud_and_Potentially_Obnoxious\"><\/span>Clicky Mechanical Switches \u2014 Loud and (Potentially) Obnoxious<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Clicky mechanical switches, for a small(ish) group of people, are an absolute blessing.<\/p>\n<p>For most, however, they\u2019re just not a good enough option because of the way they sound when actuated.<\/p>\n<p><strong>They come with both a tactile bump <em>and<\/em> an audible click which makes them the loudest option on the market.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21562\" style=\"width: 2048px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21562\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21562\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches.jpg\" alt=\"Clicky Switches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21562\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21562 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Clicky Switches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Clicky-Switches.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21562\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.logitechg.com\/en-us\/innovation\/mechanical-switches.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Logitech G<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>They're easy to type on and quite enjoyable in general, but if you type fast or tend to bottom out, their clicky nature will soon turn from a boon to an absolute audible hindrance \u2014 <strong>and a most debilitating one at that.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>They're generally considered great for heavy typists but that also depends on the <em>speed<\/em> at which one types and the <em>duration<\/em> of a said typing session.<\/p>\n<p>They're stellar for short bursts and whatnot, but if you're going to be typing for hours on end then their clicky nature might end up becoming a problem a lot sooner than you'd think.<\/p>\n<p>As a result, they're nowhere near as popular as linear and tactical switches which, in turn, means that you won't have as many options to choose from. They're not bad by any stretch of the imagination but are nonetheless a more niche option reserved only for a \u201cselect few.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Still, you shouldn\u2019t write them off immediately as they, too, have their own unique allure. So, just to be sure, head over to your local IT\/hardware shop and see if they have such a keyboard on display for you to test out.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/yXfysGqNLeE\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/yXfysGqNLeE\" class=\" lazyload\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switches_Important\"><\/span>Are Mechanical Keyboard Switches Important?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>They absolutely are, but they\u2019re nonetheless just a single component of a much broader \u201cequation.\u201d The <em>type<\/em> switch matters most in regards to the way it\u2019ll feel and perform.<\/p>\n<p>Its <em>sound profile<\/em>, however \u2014 along with a myriad of other factors and characteristics \u2014 will vary depending on the case in which it is housed, the materials from which it and all of its internals are made of, whether any mods have been performed, and a myriad of other factors as well.<\/p>\n<p>A mechanical keyboard is comprised of many different elements, much like a desktop PC or laptop.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21563\" style=\"width: 1470px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21563\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21563\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components.jpg\" alt=\"Mechanical Keyboard Components\" width=\"1470\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components.jpg 1470w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components-300x139.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components-1024x475.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components-768x356.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1470px) 100vw, 1470px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21563\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21563 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201470%20682%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Mechanical Keyboard Components\" width=\"1470\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201470%20682%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1470w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1470px) 100vw, 1470px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components.jpg 1470w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components-300x139.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components-1024x475.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components-768x356.jpg 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Mechanical-Keyboard-Components.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21563\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gloriousgaming.com\/products\/glorious-gmmk-pro-75-barebone-black\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Glorious Gaming<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>If you change just one of these elements the whole keyboard will sound and feel different, which, in part, is why they're so alluring \u2014 <strong>it's a seemingly endless playground, one that can entertain you for months on end. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>There's always something new one can add which makes it a wholly entertaining hobby. Plus, you're typing on the thing for the vast majority of your waking life so you'll feel these adjustments the very moment they are made \u2014<strong> it's a tactile, sensory experience.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>So, to summarize, the <em>type<\/em> of switch you end up going with is incredibly important, but it\u2019s not the <em>only<\/em> thing that matters.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s so much more for one to master and understand; <strong>these are all hugely important factors that end up making a world of difference. <\/strong><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_Swap_Out_My_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switches\"><\/span>Can I Swap Out My Mechanical Keyboard Switches?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You absolutely can \u2014 <strong>assuming you end up buying a keyboard with a hot-swappable PCB.<\/strong> That\u2019s the most important thing and, well, it\u2019s a wholly advisable route, too!<\/p>\n<p>With a hot-swappable PCB, you\u2019ll be able to swap out each and every single switch and tweak and tune everything to your liking!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21564\" style=\"width: 1500px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21564\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21564\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB.jpg\" alt=\"Hot Swappable PCB\" width=\"1500\" height=\"928\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB-300x186.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB-1024x634.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB-768x475.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><\/noscript><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21564\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-21564 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201500%20928%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Hot Swappable PCB\" width=\"1500\" height=\"928\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201500%20928%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB-300x186.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB-1024x634.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB-768x475.jpg 768w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Hot-Swappable-PCB.jpg\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-21564\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/iqunix.store\/collections\/dark-side-series-mechanical-keyboards\/products\/iqunix-f97-dark-side?variant=40030929289276\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IQUNIX<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<p>You might want linear switches <em>right now<\/em>, but that might change further down the road. Maybe you\u2019ll realize those tactile ones are a better fit for your needs and preferences or, perhaps, you\u2019ll just get bored and will want to experience something a bit different.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s the thing: <strong>a hot-swappable PCB will give you the freedom of choice which, in essence, is what mechanical keyboards are all about!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-Ln9rA_usoY\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-Ln9rA_usoY\" class=\" lazyload\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switch_Is_Right_For_Me\"><\/span>Which Mechanical Keyboard Switch Is Right For Me?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>That\u2019s a <em>very<\/em> hard question to answer.<\/p>\n<p>Clicky ones are the most enjoyable for typing but only to a certain extent. They\u2019re often <em>way<\/em> too loud and if you\u2019re a fast typist and tend to \u201cbottom out,\u201d you\u2019ll start questioning your purchase within months if not <em>weeks<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Most folks tend to prefer linear switches for gaming and tactile ones for typing.<\/strong> That, however, is no rule as we\u2019re all different and tend to gravitate toward different things.<\/p>\n<p>And so the most sensible thing you can do is stroll down to your local IT\/hardware shop and test out each and every single mechanical keyboard it has on display. <strong>That\u2019s not going to be that great of a sample size, but it sure is better than nothing.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Adjectives and superlatives and drawn-out explanations are one thing; trying it all out in person is still the best and most practical way of navigating the market and making an intelligent purchasing decision.<\/p>\n<p>Watching online videos and sound tests is <em>also<\/em> a great starting point, but that, too, can be deceiving, as the following video so precisely illustrates:<\/p>\n<p><noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TjA7Oap5XKo\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/noscript><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" width=\"860\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TjA7Oap5XKo\" class=\" lazyload\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Just because a <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/mechanical-vs-membrane-keyboards\/\">keyboard sounds<\/a> or looks great on video doesn\u2019t mean you\u2019ll enjoy it equally as much once you start using it.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ\"><\/span>FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Let\u2019s go over a few potential questions you might have regarding this particular topic:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Mechanical_Switches_Are_Best_for_Gaming\"><\/span>Which Mechanical Switches Are Best for Gaming?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>For gaming, you'll want a switch that's fast, linear, and as smooth as butter.<\/p>\n<p>Cherry MX Speed Silver switches and regular red ones (like Cherry MX Red or Gateron Red) stand out in this regard. That being said, they are by no means the only viable options.<\/p>\n<p><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21565\" src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches.jpg\" alt=\"Cherry MX Gaming Switches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21565 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Cherry MX Gaming Switches\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%202048%201080%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches-1536x810.jpg 1536w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/media\/2023\/01\/Cherry-MX-Gaming-Switches.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p>Scour the web and see what\u2019s out there, and then make the call according to your needs and overall budget.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Mechanical_Switches_Are_Best_for_Typing\"><\/span>Which Mechanical Switches Are Best for Typing?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>All three switch types are great for typing, but they <em>do<\/em> offer a noticeably different typing <em>experience<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Linear ones are the most silent and the fastest to actuate. Tactile ones feel great and are sort of the perfect middle ground. Clicky switches are loud and most often obnoxious but are, for <em>some<\/em>, the best possible option.<\/p>\n<p>So, make sure to test out as many keyboards as you can before making any kind of purchasing decision.<\/p>\n<p>Just keep in mind that buying a \u201cgaming-grade\u201d mechanical keyboard might not be the best possible route if you plan on typing a lot as its switches are going to actuate a lot sooner than you\u2019d like \u2014 they can often be a bit <em>too<\/em> fast and are nowhere near as forgiving when it comes to typing errors and whatnot (which, naturally, should come as no surprise);<strong> their primary purpose is to give you an edge in those long, drawn-out gaming sessions, not help you write your first novel.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_Best_Mechanical_Keyboard_Switch\"><\/span>What\u2019s the Best Mechanical Keyboard Switch?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There\u2019s no definitive answer \u2014 we all have different needs and preferences.<\/p>\n<p>What might be a subpar switch or switch type to one person may well be considered the absolute zenith by another.<\/p>\n<p>It all comes down to experience, too; as you experience more and more switches your tastes and opinions will naturally change and evolve.<\/p>\n<p>This might seem like a vague, cop-out answer, but it\u2019s the truth \u2014 <strong>you\u2019ll just have to experiment and test out as many switches as you possibly can in order to form your own opinion on this matter. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Some of the most popular switches (and most revered) are those from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cherrymx.de\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cherry<\/a>, but Gateron Blacks, Yellows, Holy Pandas, and many others also stand out as community favorites.<\/p>\n<p>From a popularity standpoint, Cherry MX ones are the most ubiquitous and, according to some, the most high quality, although that, too, can be argued and debated about.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Over_to_You\"><\/span>Over to You<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The rise and popularity of mechanical keyboards should hardly come as a surprise \u2014 <strong>they\u2019re absolutely incredible peripherals that are worth their weight in gold. <\/strong>It all starts off with choosing the right switch <em>type<\/em>, though.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Which one do you prefer? Let us know in the <a href=\"#comments\">comment<\/a> section down below and, in case you need any help, head over to <a href=\"https:\/\/g100.us\/forum\/\">our forum<\/a> and ask away!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Mechanical keyboard switches come in various different \u201cflavors.\u201d There are so many of them, in fact, that it\u2019s quite easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options that are available on the market. And, to make things even more complicated, it\u2019s like there\u2019s a brand new switch \u2014 a \u201cnoteworthy\u201d one \u2014 every...<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2346,"featured_media":21557,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[209],"tags":[297],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21555"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2346"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21555"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21555\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21571,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21555\/revisions\/21571"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21557"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21555"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21555"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/g100.us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21555"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}