The 6 Most Popular Mechanical Keyboard Switches and How They Impact Gaming

PC gaming is very customizable, and that includes your keyboard switches. But what does that mean, and what do different switches do? Let's find out.

We live in what is arguably the golden age of gaming. With many engaging titles in different genres, gamers often require the right equipment for the right games.

Keyboards are typically on the top of everyone's upgrade list. And mechanical keyboards have seen a huge resurgence recently. But how can certain switches impact your game? Here's all you need to know.

Gamers majorly classify keyboard switches based on how they feel when used. These classifications include linear, tactile, and clicky switches as well as heavy switches.

Linear switches actuate with no resistance. This means they fully depress into their housing and return without hindrance. As such, linear switches require little actuation force to use.

Tactile switches operate similarly. However, they have a small tactile bump that helps signal when the switch has reached its actuation point. They also require a little more force to use.

On the other hand, clicky switches are also tactile but make a satisfying click noise when used. The satisfaction is amplified when these switches are lubed properly.

Finally, heavy switches are engineered to require a lot more actuation force. They exhaust users much quicker than standard switches.

We'll now break down the most popular switches that cross these categories. Let's dive in.

Red switches like Cherry MX Reds and Gateron Reds classify as linear switches. As such, you will feel very little resistance when using these keyboard switches.

This lack of resistance is one major factor differentiating red, brown, and blue switches. Most gamers prefer red switches, especially when playing games that require fast reactions.

For instance, tactical shooters like Valorant, CSGO, and Rainbow Six Siege have some advanced movement techniques that can give gamers an edge. Every millisecond counts when trying to learn a new skill in-game, and most gamers have come to rely on red switches for that edge.

Red switches also require less actuation force and are great for stamina. As such, a red switch keyboard is your best friend for those long gaming sessions.

Another factor to consider when choosing switches is the sound they make. A red switch can sound incredibly satisfying with good lubing and great construction.

First, we discussed linear switches; now, we will dive into tactile switches. The core difference is key-press feedback. Brown switches, in particular, give feedback as you use them. The bump is noticeable enough without being a nuisance.

What exactly is the point of tactile feedback? Well, it slows down actuation time but allows users to track their keypresses accurately. This feature can be incredibly useful in mechanically demanding video games.

A big example of this is Fortnite. Building is a key feature of this particular video game. However, this mechanic requires an overwhelming amount of key binds. One can easily lose track of the last key they entered, especially when you are new to the game. Thankfully, lightly tactile switches like browns can help you keep track of your input.

Brown switches can also be great in rhythm games. Titles like Osu! and A Dance of Ice and Fire are challenging at higher levels. As such, some professional players prefer the added advantage of brown tactile switches.

Blue switches are a step up from brown switches on the tactile scale. These switches allow you to feel and hear feedback from your keypresses.

Sadly, the trade-off is a step up in actuation force. Blue switches sap stamina and can wear you out if you aren't accustomed to the actuation force.

What use could these kinds of switches have for gamers? Well, some find the audible click pleasant and welcoming. This click has been attributed to mechanical keyboards for a long time. Most rhythm gamers also tend to the extreme and opt for blue switches over brown. Some might consider brown switches lacking in tactility.

You should also consider the wide availability of blue switches in pre-built keyboards. Some brands stock mechanical keyboards housing blue and brown switches more often. So, if you are a big fan of hearing an audible click when gaming, blue switches are the right choice.

Black switches are linear, just like reds. They have similar switch architecture with reds, save for one major difference: black switches carry a different, heavier type of spring. This means the operating actuation force is higher. The actual value may vary depending on the switch.

Typically, the spring type bumps up the actuation force necessary to the point where it rivals a blue switch. Consequently, black switches are the perfect choice for gamers that want a heavier keyboard switch but not a tactile feel.

Some gamers use black switches to build the stamina that certain titles require. For instance, some Osu! beat maps can last for many minutes. As such, many community members use black switches to train the stamina required to complete these beat maps.

Speed silvers are also linear switches. However, they offer a lighter feel when used. They share a required actuation force value with red keyboard switches but have less spring resistance and travel distance.

This means that speed silver switches bottom out much faster than red switches. As such, speed silver switches can come in handy in games where every second counts.

A great use for these switches would be while playing racing games. Gamers typically opt for controllers or steering wheels when playing racing games. However, a keyboard with speed silver switches could be a good alternative until you feel ready to purchase a controller or a steering wheel.

Some rhythm gamers also use speed silver switches. Games like A Dance of Fire and Ice that have multiple inputs stand to benefit the most from speed silver switches.

Lekker switches are technically linear switches. However, there is a major difference between these switches and the rest on this list.

Lekker switches utilize a concept in magnetism known as the Hall Effect to report a keypress to your computer. These switches contain small magnets, and the nature of the Hall Effect allows users to customize their user experience fully. Depending on your preference, you can change the actuation point so your keypresses can be light or heavy.

These switches are excellent for gaming. As such, Wooting recognizes its customer base and has made an app available to help you take full advantage of these Lekker switches. They offer amazing utilities like dynamic keystrokes, analog movement control, and the adjustable actuation point for a fully customizable keyboard experience.

Download: Wootility (Free)

As the 2020s progress, so do mechanical keyboards. With such a rich selection, nothing stops you from leveling up your hardware.

Remember some of the points discussed here when choosing a keyboard switch. Also, try out a keyboard switch tester while attempting to choose. It’ll take a few tries, but finding the perfect keyboard switch for you will be worth it.

Tayo Sogbesan is a professional writer with over 3 years of experience writing, editing, and optimizing web content. She's been a lover of the technology scene for the better part of the last decade. As such, Tayo has owned, used, and explored the depths of Windows and macOS devices for about 5 years. Tayo is currently a Windows section writer at MakeUseOf, and looks forward to exploring the nuances of the tech space. If she's not typing away on her computer, she is probably catching up on The Office.