Keyboard Switches: Linear, Tactile, & Clicky | MEETION

Amazed by the tremendous benefits of mechanical keyboard, you finally decide to buy one for your needs. You go out in the market only to get confused by various mechanical switches. With so many options available for customization and their own set of pros and cons, you start getting overwhelmed. If that is the case, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will be discussing mechanical switches in detail. Whether your needs are typing or gaming Keyboard Switches, after reading this article, you can make the perfect choice so that your investment does not go to waste.

Keyboard Switches: Linear, Tactile, & Clicky

The mechanical keyboards have individual mechanisms for registering keystrokes, namely switches. A switch comprises a housing, stem, and some other parts. They offer different properties in the context of actuation force, the sound produced, actuation distance, and more. There are three types of switches available in the market, namely linear, tactile, and clicky switches. We will be discussing them below.

Linear Switches

Linear switches are the simplest of them all. Just press the key, and the keystroke is registered. You don’t get to feel the actuation point or the slightest of bumps. Such switches offer smooth actuation and consistent keystrokes without any tactile feedback. So, they are usually quiet and provide more precision. Linear switches are tailor-made for those who like a quick and smooth typing experience, requiring as little force for actuation as possible. They are also the quietest switches available, which make them perfect for those work in office environments where they want to avoid annoying colleagues with loud typing keyboards.

Tactile Switches

If you enjoy bumpy feedback once you press the key but don’t want a loud pressing sound, then tactile switches are for you. That is why they are also known as one of the best all-round options. They are an excellent option for someone who is looking to begin with using mechanical keyboards.

Clicky Switches

Clicky switches are the loudest of them all. If you like that crunchy and clicky sound when you are typing or gaming, clicky switches are for you! These switches require more force and actuation distance to register a keystroke. So, you feel a sharp and distinct bump once you press the key. It gives you pleasing and satisfying feedback during the typing process, thus making it more enjoyable.

Choosing the Right Keyboard Switches For You

Linear Switches: Smooth and Silent

As already mentioned, linear switches are smooth and quiet, but there are some other factors to consider once you decide to opt for them. Since they offer the lowest actuation distance, they are also prone to the problem of bottoming out. It can cause your fingers to ache or experience some discomfort. If you have not used linear switches before or are just transitioning from a non-mechanical keyboard, this can concern you. But once you get a feel for them, they can be pretty handy. They are the quickest, so they are trendy among passionate gamers, where faster response times can provide you the much-needed edge.

Tactile Switches: Bumpy and Satisfying

Tactile switches are your go-to option if you are looking for a typing experience with pleasing feedback. Most importantly, they are a perfect choice for beginners new to mechanical keyboards. You may find a variety of tactile switches offering different degrees of satisfying bumps as you press the keys. So you may choose as per your liking. Moreover, they will not be as loud as their clicky counterparts, so you can easily use them in any environment, whether in public spaces or a quiet office setting.

Clicky Switches: Loud and Proud

As the name suggests, clicky switches are known for producing loud, clicky sounds when pressed. From this point of view, they provide the best feedback out of all switches available. But when buying clicky switches, your working or gaming environment is paramount. For some users, loud sounds can be a source of distraction for those around them. The last thing you want is to get undue attention from others while enjoying your new keyboard. Moreover, if your work requires typing for extended sessions, clicky switches might not be the best option as they may soon tire you.

Keyboards with the Best Mechanical Switches

MEETION MK500

As a popular mechanical gaming keyboard, the MEETION MK500 Keyboard Switch is a full-key keyboard with a total of 105 keys. It comes with Outemu blue switches, a famous brand of clicky switches known for their exceptional feedback and loud, crisp sounds. It also uses double injection keycaps, which are rough and tough to ensure longer life without wear and tear.

The connection with the PC is via a standard USB PVC cable 1.8m long. It also features the mesmerizing RGB LED backlight that is the dream of every passionate gamer today. Moreover, MK500 is good from an ergonomic point of view as well with a detachable palm rest to comfort your wrists. This keyboard weighs 1400g and has black and gray color options.

Ducky One 3 SF

Ducky One 3 SF is another full-key mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX Mechanical switches. You can customize these switches to be linear, tactile, or clicky per your preferences. The keycaps are PBT designed using a double shot technique so that the legends on the keycap do not fade away even after years of usage. The finishing is very premium, as the keycaps give off a shiny and frosted look.

Moreover, the weight distribution ensures passionate gaming and extended typing sessions, providing overall stability. While the RGB lighting feature makes it very pleasing to the eye. Another exciting feature is the presence of hot-swappable sockets, designed to let users enjoy a wide range of mechanical switches without the hassle of desoldering them. The connection is via a typical USB type C cable.

Conclusion

So, which Keyboard Switch supplier to choose now? Well, the perfect switch choice depends highly upon your specific needs and preferences. If you love to get loud, crisp feedback, and your setting can not potentially disturb anyone, go for clicky switches. But if you want a quiet keyboard that lets you type quickly, you may choose linear switches. And if you are just starting out using a mechanical keyboard, you should go for a well-rounded option, which is tactile switches. Sincerely hope that the article can help you make an informed decision, so your investment does not go to waste.