The sensation and sound of each keystroke is determined by your key switches, which are the most important parts of mechanical keyboards. These small switches, which are located just beneath each keycap, register inputs to a computer when pressed. They come in all shapes and sizes, and each one offers a unique typing feel, actuation force, and sound that can accommodate anyone's tastes. There are three primary categories of mechanical key switches: click, tactile, and linear. The color of your key switch often affects the keyboard's sound and feel. Red switches are often linear switches, providing users with tactile bumps and silent keystrokes. Tactile switches are often brown and grey, giving users a small feedback bump in the middle of a press, without providing too loud of a noise. Finally, we have clicky switches, which are often blue and white, and provide both tactile feedback and a noticeable click sound. The most popular key switch brand is Cherry MX, although newer competitors have been generating noise recently, such as Holy Panda. Whether for gaming, work, or competitive typing, the right key switch for you depends on each individual's preference on sound, feel, and force.
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