Keyboard Switches Explained: Clicky, Tactile, or Linear?
Mechanical keyboard switches are the most important part of any mechanical keyboard. They determine how each key feels when pressed, how much noise it makes, and how responsive the keyboard is during gaming, typing, and everyday use. Unlike membrane keyboards, every key on a mechanical keyboard uses an individual switch, creating a more precise and customizable typing experience.
The three main types of keyboard switches are linear, tactile, and clicky switches. Each offers a unique combination of smoothness, feedback, sound, and actuation force, making certain switch types better suited for gaming, typing, programming, or office work.
Whether you’re buying your first mechanical keyboard or upgrading a custom keyboard, choosing the right switch can significantly improve comfort, accuracy, and overall performance. In this guide, you’ll learn how mechanical switches work, understand important switch specifications, compare popular switch types, and discover how to choose the best keyboard switch for your needs.
Want to compare switch sensitivity? Try our Keyboard Switch Actuation Tester and see how different actuation points affect performance.
What Are Mechanical Keyboard Switches?
Mechanical keyboard switches are individual electro-mechanical components installed under each keycap on a mechanical keyboard. When you press a key, the switch registers the input by completing an electrical circuit, sending a keystroke signal to your computer. Unlike membrane keyboards that rely on a rubber dome sheet, each mechanical switch operates independently, offering superior keystroke consistency and durability.
How a Mechanical Keyboard Switch Works
When you press a key, the stem moves downward through the switch housing, compressing the spring and eventually connecting the metal contact leaves to complete the electrical circuit. This is the actuation point — the exact moment your keystroke is registered by your system. The spring then pushes the stem back to its resting position, resetting the switch for the next keypress.
Mechanical Switches vs Membrane Keyboards
Mechanical switches offer a distinct, consistent keyboard feel with every keypress, whereas membrane keyboards use a single rubber dome layer that wears unevenly over time. Mechanical keyboards are significantly more durable — rated for 50 to 100 million keystrokes per switch — compared to the 5 to 10 million keystroke lifespan typical of membrane designs. For users who prioritize typing feedback, switch lifespan, and keyboard customization, mechanical switches are the clear choice.
Keep your switches performing at their best by following our complete guide on cleaning a mechanical keyboard.
Why Keyboard Switches Matter
The mechanical switch you choose shapes every aspect of your typing experience: the force required to press each key (actuation force), the physical feedback you feel (tactile bump or none), the sound profile of each keystroke, and the overall keyboard acoustics of your setup. Selecting the wrong switch for your use case leads to fatigue, errors, and frustration — while the right switch makes typing and gaming feel effortless.
The Three Main Types of Keyboard Switches
Every mechanical keyboard switch falls into one of three main categories: linear, tactile, and clicky. Each switch type offers a different combination of smoothness, feedback, and sound, making certain switches better suited for gaming, typing, office work, or enthusiast builds.
Linear Switches
Linear switches provide a smooth keystroke from top to bottom with no tactile bump and no audible click. Because there is no physical resistance during travel, they are widely preferred by gamers who value fast, consistent key presses.
Popular examples include Cherry MX Red (45g), Gateron Yellow (35g), and Akko Cream Yellow (35–40g). Their light actuation force makes rapid inputs effortless, although some users miss the typing feedback provided by other switch types.
Best for: Gaming, fast typing, smooth keystrokes
Popular examples: Cherry MX Red, Gateron Yellow, Akko Cream Yellow
Test your typing speed and keystrokes per second with our Keyboard Counter tool.
Tactile Switches
Tactile switches feature a noticeable bump at the actuation point, providing physical feedback when a key registers. This added feedback helps many users type more accurately and comfortably during long sessions without producing the loud click associated with clicky switches.
Cherry MX Brown (55g) is the most common tactile switch, while enthusiast favorites such as the Gazzew Boba U4T offer a stronger and more pronounced tactile bump.
Best for: Typing, programming, office work
Popular examples: Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Brown, Gazzew Boba U4T
Clicky Switches
Clicky switches combine tactile feedback with a distinct audible click. The click mechanism creates a typewriter-like sound that many keyboard enthusiasts and dedicated typists find highly satisfying.
Well-known examples include Cherry MX Blue (60g) and Kailh Box White. While clicky switches provide the most noticeable feedback, their higher noise levels make them less suitable for shared workspaces and quiet environments.
Best for: Typing enthusiasts, solo workspaces, mechanical keyboard fans
Popular examples: Cherry MX Blue, Kailh Box White
Check every key for accuracy and responsiveness using our free Keyboard Tester.
Linear vs Tactile vs Clicky — Key Differences
Choosing between linear, tactile, and clicky switches comes down to three key factors: typing feel, noise level, and intended use. While all three switch types perform the same basic function, they deliver a very different typing experience.
Typing Feel Comparison
Linear switches provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with no tactile bump. Tactile switches add physical feedback at the actuation point, helping users feel when a key has registered. Clicky switches combine tactile feedback with an audible click, creating the most pronounced and engaging typing experience. Because keyboard feel is highly personal, many enthusiasts recommend testing multiple switch types before making a decision.
Sound Level Comparison
Linear switches are typically the quietest option, making them suitable for shared spaces and office environments. Tactile switches produce moderate noise from the tactile bump but remain far quieter than clicky switches. Clicky switches generate a distinct click sound with every keypress and are best suited for users who enjoy audible feedback and don’t need a quiet workspace.
Gaming Performance Comparison
Linear switches are generally preferred for gaming because their smooth travel allows faster repeated inputs and quick directional changes. Tactile switches offer a balanced experience for users who split their time between gaming and typing. Clicky switches can still be used for gaming, but their additional resistance and louder sound make them less popular among competitive players.
Beginner-Friendly Comparison
For first-time mechanical keyboard users, tactile switches are often the safest starting point. They provide clear feedback without the noise of clicky switches or the learning curve associated with linear switches. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences, typing habits, and work environment.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Linear | Tactile | Clicky | Silent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tactile Bump | None | Yes | Yes | None or Mild |
| Audible Click | No | No | Yes | No |
| Best For | Gaming | Typing | Enthusiasts | Office |
| Noise Level | Low | Medium | High | Very Low |
| Typing Feel | Smooth | Bumpy | Bumpy + Click | Smooth / Soft |
| Example | Cherry MX Red | Cherry MX Brown | Cherry MX Blue | Gateron Silent Red |
Understanding Keyboard Switch Anatomy
Every mechanical keyboard switch consists of several key components that work together to determine typing feel, sound profile, switch smoothness, and durability. Understanding switch anatomy helps you make sense of specifications, compare switch designs, and perform common modifications such as lubing and filming.
Upper Housing
The upper housing is the top shell of the switch that guides stem movement and helps reduce stem wobble. Materials such as polycarbonate and nylon can influence both keyboard feel and sound.
Role: Guides stem travel and affects stability.
Lower Housing
The lower housing forms the base of the switch and contains the spring and metal contact leaves. Housing material plays a major role in keyboard acoustics, with nylon typically producing a deeper sound than polycarbonate.
Role: Supports internal components and influences sound profile.
Stem
The stem is the moving component attached to the keycap and is largely responsible for determining switch behavior.
- Straight stem = Linear switch
- Tactile leg = Tactile switch
- Click jacket or click bar = Clicky switch
Role: Defines switch feel and key travel characteristics.
Want to understand how switch design affects responsiveness? Read our guide on keyboard latency and input delay.
Spring
The spring controls the actuation force and bottom-out force of the switch.
- Lighter springs (35–45g) are popular for gaming
- Heavier springs (60–80g) are often preferred by heavy typists
Role: Determines keypress resistance.
Metal Contact Leaves
Metal contact leaves register the keystroke by completing the electrical circuit when pressed together. Their quality directly affects switch consistency and lifespan.
Role: Registers key inputs.
Test every key and verify proper switch registration using our free Keyboard Tester.
LED Slot and Light Diffuser
Most modern switches include an LED slot that allows RGB lighting to shine through the switch housing and keycaps. Clear or frosted housings generally provide better light diffusion.
Role: Improves RGB visibility and lighting effects.
Key Takeaway
Every switch is built from the same core components, but differences in housing materials, stem design, spring weight, and contact leaf construction are what create unique typing experiences across switch brands and models.
Keyboard Switch Specifications Explained
Every mechanical keyboard switch is defined by a set of technical specifications that determine how it feels, sounds, and performs. Understanding these numbers makes it easier to compare switches from brands like Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, Akko, and TTC without relying solely on subjective reviews.
Quick Specification Reference
| Specification | What It Measures | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Actuation Force | Required pressure | Typing comfort |
| Actuation Point | Registration depth | Gaming speed |
| Travel Distance | Total key movement | Typing feel |
| Bottom-Out Force | Full press resistance | Fatigue & control |
| Reset Point | Re-registration point | Double-tapping |
| Debounce Time | Input delay prevention | Accuracy |
Actuation Force
Actuation force (also called operating force) is the amount of pressure required to register a keypress, usually measured in grams (g).
- Light switches (35–45g) feel effortless and are popular for gaming.
- Medium switches (45–60g) provide a balanced typing experience.
- Heavy switches (60g+) reduce accidental keypresses and suit deliberate typists.
Choosing the right actuation force can significantly improve comfort during long gaming or typing sessions.
Actuation Point (Operating Point)
The actuation point is the depth at which a keypress registers, typically between 1.2mm and 2.0mm.
A shorter actuation point allows faster input registration, which is why speed switches and Hall Effect keyboards are popular among competitive gamers. Modern magnetic switches can even offer adjustable actuation points, allowing users to customize responsiveness to their preferences.
Total Travel Distance
Travel distance refers to the total depth a key can move from its resting position to the bottom-out point.
- Standard mechanical switches: 3.5–4.0mm
- Low-profile switches: 2.5–3.0mm
Longer travel generally feels deeper and more deliberate, while shorter travel can feel faster and more responsive.
Pre-Travel and Post-Travel
Pre-travel is the distance a key moves before reaching the actuation point. Post-travel is the remaining distance after actuation until the key bottoms out.
These measurements influence how responsive a switch feels and how much movement occurs after a keypress has been registered. For tactile switches, the tactile bump usually occurs near the end of the pre-travel stage.
Bottom-Out Force
Bottom-out force is the pressure required to fully press a key to its physical limit.
Since bottom-out force is always higher than actuation force, it plays a major role in typing comfort. Users who type heavily often prefer switches with greater resistance to reduce accidental presses and improve control.
Reset Point
The reset point is the position at which a switch becomes ready to register another keypress after being released.
For gaming, a reset point close to the actuation point allows faster repeated inputs. This is one reason Hall Effect switches with Rapid Trigger technology have become increasingly popular among competitive players.
Debounce Time
Debounce time is a small delay built into keyboard firmware that prevents unintended double inputs caused by switch contact bouncing.
Most keyboards use debounce settings between 5ms and 25ms, while some gaming keyboards offer extremely low debounce values for faster responsiveness.
Want to learn more? Read our complete guide on keyboard debouncing and how it affects typing accuracy, latency, and keystroke registration.
Popular Switch Specification Comparison
| Switch | Type | Actuation Force | Actuation Point | Travel Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry MX Red | Linear | 45g | 2.0mm | 4.0mm |
| Cherry MX Brown | Tactile | 55g | 2.0mm | 4.0mm |
| Cherry MX Blue | Clicky | 60g | 2.2mm | 4.0mm |
| Gateron Yellow | Linear | 35g | 2.0mm | 4.0mm |
| Gateron Milky Yellow | Linear | 35g | 2.0mm | 4.0mm |
| Kailh Box White | Clicky | 45g | 1.8mm | 3.6mm |
| Gazzew Boba U4T | Tactile | 62g | 2.0mm | 4.0mm |
| Akko Cream Yellow | Linear | 35–40g | 2.0mm | 4.0mm |
Mechanical Keyboard Switch Technologies
While most users focus on switch types like linear, tactile, and clicky, the underlying switch technology also plays a major role in performance, durability, and responsiveness. Understanding these technologies can help you choose the right keyboard for gaming, typing, or custom keyboard builds.
Quick Technology Comparison
| Technology | Registration Method | Adjustable Actuation | Rapid Trigger Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Mechanical | Metal contact leaves | No | No | General use |
| Optical | Infrared light sensor | Limited | Some models | Gaming |
| Hall Effect (Magnetic) | Magnetic sensor | Yes | Yes | Competitive gaming |
| Analog | Continuous depth sensing | Yes | Yes | Advanced gaming |
Traditional Mechanical Switches
Traditional mechanical switches use metal contact leaves to register keypresses. Popularized by Cherry MX, this design has powered mechanical keyboards for decades and remains the most widely used switch technology today.
Advantages
- Proven reliability
- Affordable pricing
- Huge switch selection
- Compatible with most keyboards
Best for: Gaming, typing, office work, and custom keyboards
Optical Switches
Optical switches use an infrared light beam instead of physical metal contacts. When a key is pressed, the stem interrupts the light beam, instantly registering the keystroke.
Because there is no metal contact bounce, optical switches can offer faster response times and reduced debounce delays.
Advantages
- Fast input registration
- Reduced debounce delay
- Longer lifespan
- Popular in gaming keyboards
Best for: Fast-paced gaming and esports
Hall Effect (Magnetic) Switches
Hall Effect switches use magnetic sensors to detect key movement rather than relying on physical contact. This allows users to customize the actuation point and precisely control how sensitive each key feels.
When combined with Rapid Trigger technology, Hall Effect switches provide some of the fastest and most customizable input available today.
Advantages
- Adjustable actuation points
- Rapid Trigger support
- Exceptional durability
- Highly customizable
Best for: Competitive gaming and enthusiasts
Analog Switches
Analog switches can detect how far a key is pressed instead of simply registering an on/off input. This allows keyboard keys to behave similarly to controller triggers or joysticks.
For example, lightly pressing a key can make a character walk, while fully pressing it can make them run.
Advantages
- Variable input control
- Controller-like functionality
- Advanced gaming features
Best for: Racing games, simulation games, and advanced users
Rapid Trigger Technology
Rapid Trigger is a modern gaming feature that dynamically adjusts activation and reset points based on key movement. Instead of waiting for a key to return to a fixed reset point, the switch resets immediately when the key begins moving upward.
This dramatically improves repeated inputs and is one of the main reasons Hall Effect keyboards have become so popular among competitive FPS players.
Best for: FPS games, rhythm games, and esports
Key Takeaway
For most users, traditional mechanical switches remain the best balance of price, feel, and reliability. However, gamers seeking the lowest possible input delay often prefer Hall Effect switches with Rapid Trigger technology, while optical switches offer a strong middle ground between traditional and magnetic switch designs.
Popular Keyboard Switch Brands
The mechanical keyboard market includes dozens of switch manufacturers, but a handful of brands consistently stand out for quality, innovation, and community reputation. Understanding each brand’s strengths can help you narrow down your options before comparing individual switch models.
Quick Brand Comparison
| Brand | Best Known For | Popular Among |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry MX | Industry standard | Mainstream users |
| Gateron | Smooth linear switches | Gamers & enthusiasts |
| Kailh | Innovative designs | Enthusiasts |
| Akko | Budget value | Beginners |
| Outemu | Affordable pricing | Budget buyers |
| TTC | Silent & specialty switches | Office users |
| Gazzew | Premium tactile switches | Enthusiasts |
Common Keyboard Switch Colors
| Color | Typical Type | Typical Feel | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red | Linear | Smooth | Gaming |
| Brown | Tactile | Mild bump | Typing & office |
| Blue | Clicky | Bump + click | Typing enthusiasts |
| Black | Linear | Smooth, heavier | Heavy typists |
| Silver | Linear | Fast, short travel | Competitive gaming |
| Green | Clicky | Heavy click | Dedicated typists |
| Yellow | Linear | Light and smooth | Gaming & fast typing |
Best Keyboard Switches for Different Use Cases
| Use Case | Recommended Switch Type | Example Switches |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming | Linear | Cherry MX Red, Gateron Yellow |
| Competitive FPS | Hall Effect / Speed | Cherry MX Speed Silver |
| Typing | Tactile | Cherry MX Brown, Boba U4T |
| Programming | Tactile | Cherry MX Brown, Gateron Brown |
| Office Work | Silent | Gateron Silent Red |
| Content Creation | Silent Tactile | TTC Silent Bluish White V2 |
| Beginners | Light Tactile | Cherry MX Brown |
Gaming
Linear switches provide smooth and fast key presses, making them the preferred choice for most gamers.
Typing & Programming
Tactile switches offer physical feedback that can improve typing accuracy and comfort during long sessions.
Office Work & Content Creation
Silent switches reduce noise while maintaining the benefits of mechanical keyboards.
Beginners
A light tactile switch such as Cherry MX Brown is usually the safest starting point.
Silent, Low-Profile, and Specialty Switches
While linear, tactile, and clicky switches dominate the market, several specialty switch categories are designed for specific use cases such as quiet typing, compact keyboards, and competitive gaming.
| Switch Type | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Silent Linear | Reduced typing noise | Office work, shared spaces |
| Silent Tactile | Quiet tactile feedback | Typing and productivity |
| Low-Profile | Shorter travel distance | Laptop users, compact setups |
| Speed Switch | Short actuation point | Competitive gaming |
| Lightweight Switch | Lower actuation force | Fast typing and gaming |
| Heavy Switch | Higher actuation force | Deliberate typing and control |
Hot-Swappable vs Soldered Keyboards
If you plan to experiment with different switches, it’s important to understand the difference between hot-swappable and soldered keyboards. The choice affects how easily you can replace switches and customize your typing experience.
| Feature | Hot-Swappable | Soldered |
|---|---|---|
| Switch Replacement | Easy | Requires soldering |
| Beginner Friendly | Yes | No |
| Customization | High | Limited |
| Tools Required | None | Soldering equipment |
| Best For | Beginners & enthusiasts | Permanent builds |
Hot-Swappable Keyboards
Hot-swappable keyboards use PCB sockets that allow switches to be removed and replaced without soldering. This makes it easy to test different switch types and customize your keyboard over time.
Soldered Keyboards
Soldered keyboards attach switches directly to the PCB. While changing switches is possible, it requires desoldering equipment and significantly more effort.
Which Option Should You Choose?
For most users, a hot-swappable keyboard is the better choice because it offers flexibility and makes switch experimentation simple. Soldered keyboards are best suited for users building a long-term setup who do not plan to change switches frequently.
Customizing and Modifying Keyboard Switches
One of the biggest advantages of mechanical keyboards is the ability to customize switch feel and sound. Enthusiasts often modify switches to improve smoothness, reduce noise, or create a more personalized typing experience.
| Modification | Purpose | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Lubing | Improves smoothness and sound | Easy |
| Filming | Reduces housing wobble and rattle | Easy |
| Spring Swapping | Changes switch weight | Moderate |
| Stem Swapping | Alters switch feel | Advanced |
| Frankenswitches | Combines parts from multiple switches | Advanced |
Common Switch Modifications
- Lubing: Adds lubricant to internal switch parts for smoother keypresses and improved acoustics.
- Filming: Inserts a thin film between switch housings to reduce wobble and tighten tolerances.
- Spring Swapping: Replaces the stock spring to change actuation force and typing resistance.
- Stem Swapping: Uses a different stem to alter switch feel or tactile characteristics.
- Frankenswitches: Combines components from multiple switches to create a unique custom switch.
Factory-Lubed vs Hand-Lubed Switches
Many modern switches come factory-lubed, offering improved smoothness out of the box. However, hand-lubed switches are often preferred by enthusiasts because they allow more precise control over feel and sound.
Key Takeaway: Most users will be satisfied with quality factory-lubed switches, while enthusiasts may enjoy experimenting with switch modifications to fine-tune their typing experience.
How to Choose the Right Keyboard Switch
Choosing the right keyboard switch comes down to your primary use case, noise preferences, typing style, and budget. Use the framework below to narrow down your options.
Choose Based on Your Primary Activity
Your intended use should be the biggest factor in your decision.
- Gaming: Linear or speed switches
- Typing & Programming: Tactile switches
- Office Work: Silent switches
- Enthusiast Typing: Clicky or premium tactile switches
Consider Noise Levels
Noise can have a major impact on your experience.
- Quietest: Silent linear and silent tactile switches
- Moderate: Standard linear and tactile switches
- Loudest: Clicky switches
If you share a workspace or record audio, avoid clicky switches.
Evaluate Your Typing Style
Switch weight affects comfort and control.
- Light touch: 35–45g switches
- Average typists: 45–60g switches
- Heavy typists: 60g+ switches
The right actuation force can reduce fatigue during long sessions.
Decide Between Speed and Feedback
If you value fast inputs, choose a linear or speed switch. If you prefer physical confirmation that a key has registered, choose a tactile or clicky switch.
Set a Realistic Budget
Budget switches from brands like Akko and Gateron offer excellent value, while enthusiast switches often cost significantly more. Most beginners can find an excellent switch without spending premium prices.
Test Before You Buy
Whenever possible, use a switch tester before purchasing a keyboard. Testing different switch types in person is the fastest way to discover your preferred typing feel.
Tip: Use our Keyboard Counter tool to compare your typing speed and accuracy across different switch types.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Keyboard Switches
Choosing the wrong switch can lead to unnecessary frustration, wasted money, and a typing experience that doesn’t match your expectations. Avoid these common mistakes before buying your next mechanical keyboard.
Choosing Only by Color
Switch colors are not standardized across brands. A red, brown, or blue switch can feel different depending on the manufacturer, so always check the switch specifications rather than relying on color alone.
Ignoring Actuation Force
Actuation force has a major impact on comfort and typing feel. Switches that are too heavy can cause fatigue, while switches that are too light may result in accidental keypresses.
Buying Loud Switches for Shared Spaces
Clicky switches can be enjoyable to type on, but they are often too loud for offices, classrooms, and shared rooms. Consider silent or tactile switches if noise is a concern.
Following Trends Without Testing
Popular switches may not suit your personal preferences. Whenever possible, try a switch tester before purchasing a full keyboard or set of switches.
Overlooking Hot-Swap Compatibility
A hot-swappable keyboard makes it easy to experiment with different switches in the future. For beginners, this flexibility is often worth the small additional cost.
Key Takeaway
The best keyboard switch is not necessarily the most popular one—it’s the switch that matches your typing style, environment, and daily use case.
Keyboard Switch Lifespan and Durability
One of the biggest advantages of mechanical keyboards is switch durability. Unlike membrane keyboards, most mechanical switches are designed to last for tens of millions of keypresses without losing responsiveness.
Typical Switch Lifespan
| Switch Brand / Technology | Rated Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Cherry MX | Up to 100 million keystrokes |
| Gateron | 60–80 million keystrokes |
| Kailh | 60–80 million keystrokes |
| Akko | 50–80 million keystrokes |
| Hall Effect Switches | Extremely high due to contactless design |
For most users, even a 50-million-keystroke switch can last many years of daily use.
For most users, switch feel, sound, and typing comfort are far more important factors than lifespan, since even entry-level mechanical switches are designed to last for years of regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which keyboard switch is best for gaming?
Linear switches are generally the best choice for gaming because they provide smooth key travel and fast repeated inputs. Popular options include Cherry MX Red and Gateron Yellow, while Hall Effect switches are preferred by competitive gamers seeking maximum responsiveness.
Are linear switches better than tactile switches?
Neither is universally better. Linear switches are typically preferred for gaming, while tactile switches are often favored for typing because they provide physical feedback when a key registers.
What is the quietest mechanical keyboard switch?
Silent linear and silent tactile switches are the quietest options. Popular examples include Cherry MX Silent Red, Gateron Silent Red, and Gazzew Boba U4, all of which use internal dampening to reduce typing noise.
What switch should beginners choose?
Most beginners should start with a tactile switch such as Cherry MX Brown or Gateron Brown. These switches provide feedback without excessive noise and offer a balanced experience for both typing and gaming.
How long do mechanical keyboard switches last?
Most mechanical keyboard switches are rated for 50 to 100 million keystrokes. For everyday users, even entry-level switches can last many years of regular typing and gaming.
Conclusion
Mechanical keyboard switches come in three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches are generally preferred for gaming, tactile switches offer the best balance of feedback and versatility, and clicky switches provide the most pronounced typing experience.
The best keyboard switch ultimately depends on your typing style, environment, and personal preferences. If you’re unsure where to start, a light tactile switch such as Cherry MX Brown or Gateron Brown is a safe and versatile choice. Better yet, try a switch tester before buying to discover the keyboard feel that suits you best.