Not all mechanical switches are alike. There are three particular sorts which are mostly provided: clicky, tactile, and linear. 

Clicky switches make an auditory snapping sound once you press one down, and there’s a distinct sensation within the fingers once you use them, so you may truly really feel the change actuating. Clicky switches are sometimes known as Blues as a result of coloration scheme popularized by the model Cherry MX, however totally different manufacturers generally use totally different colours to establish their switches. 

Tactile switches, or Browns, are just like Clicky switches, however the sharpness of the snap is rounded out to extra of a bump. You can nonetheless really feel the actuation, but it surely’s extra muted. They’re additionally considerably quieter. Linear switches, or Reds, are the preferred amongst players. They have a clean actuation that provides a fair stage of resistance all the way in which down. They are the quietest and least tactile choice.

Of course, totally different manufacturers have all put their very own spin on every of those, with some providing silent switches, velocity switches, or further clicky switches. Some might change the colour schemes or make claims of particular options like larger actuation factors, however they’re all often some variation of those three primary designs.