Gaming Keyboard Showdown: Linear Vs Tactile Switches 

We want only the best for our gaming set-ups. This goes down to the finest details, including the type of switch on our keyboards. But which is better for gaming: linear vs tactile? 

Mechanical keyboards have long been a staple in the gaming community. The satisfying keystrokes, ergonomic profiles, and tuneful clacks are all must-haves at our gaming desks. But with mechanical keyboards come mechanical switches, and an ever-growing variety at that! So, we’re taking a closer look at linear and tactile switches to see if one is truly better for our gaming set-ups. 

What Are Switches?

Switches are the moving piece on your gaming keyboard. As you press down on the keycap, the switch below moves and activates on the PCB. Through some computational sorcery, this then tells your computer what key has just been pressed, triggering an action in your game or making a letter appear on your screen. All in all, switches are a vital aspect of your gaming set-up. 

Currently, there are three main types of mechanical switch: linear, tactile, and clicky. We’re going to focus on linear and tactile, as these are the more commonly used types. They offer polar opposite typing experiences, too, whereas tactile and clicky switches are functionally similar. 

In this article, we’re going to breakdown linear and tactile switches, profiling a cross-section of switches of each type that you can get from Overclockers UK. We’ll be using Cherry MX, Ducky, and Glorious switches as our examples. And oh, would you look at that, we’ve done in-depth coverage on all of them too! 

Linear Switches

Linear switches are characterised by their smooth action. There is no bump as you press down, and they are often noiseless. By having an action that just goes straight up and straight down, linear switches can often be very light, requiring little force to actuate. As such, they are great for fast-paced gaming, rapid keystrokes, and speed typing.  

Linear Switch Profile

For our linear switch profile, we’re showcasing Cherry MX Red, Kailh Box Jellyfish Y, and Glorious Lynx switches. Out of those three, Cherry MX Reds are the most popular as Cherry has been a titan among switches for years now. Many gaming keyboards will come with Cherry MX Red switches as an option. However, with the rise of hot-swapping technology and barebones keyboards being more widely available, we can experiment with more niche switches. 

Despite all being linear switches, these offer different actuation forces and travel distance. As such, they each create a different typing experience and are better suited for specific needs. The Kailh Jellyfish Y switches pair a medium actuation force with a short travel distance, whereas the Glorious Lynx has a lighter actuation but longer travel. Whilst they are both great for rapid keystrokes, you may find the different combinations match your style more. Or, you could be happy with the middle ground Cherry MX Reds provide!  

Tactile Switches

Tactile switches feature a bump or click as you press down. This happens at the actuation point, giving you noticeable feedback that you have successfully clicked the key. With this bump, tactile switches can have an audible click – but not always! If the clack of the keycaps is enough for you, but you still want that tactile bump, then you don’t have to miss out. Tactile switches are great for typing, but that satisfying crunch has its place in the gaming world, too. 

Tactile Switch Profile

Putting our tactile switches under the microscope, we have the Cherry MX Brown, Kailh Polia, and Glorious Panda. Once again, Cherry is the big name here and MX Browns are commonly found on pre-built keyboards. But barebone keyboards, like Ducky ProjectD and Glorious GMMK 2, mean we experience different tactile feedback. 

As this table shows, there is great variety in the way these tactile switches press. The Kailh Polia’s heavy actuation paired with short travel is great for enter keys and space bars, whilst the Panda’s medium actuation and travel is perfect for typing. Imagine your fingers dancing over those keys! As with the linear switches, these different combinations may call to you and that’s the important bit: finding the right set of specs for your needs. You do the same with your PC, why not your keyboard too? 

Which is Better for Gaming: Linear Vs Tactile

Of course, now we get to the meat of the question, which is better: linear or tactile? If you hadn’t already guessed it at this point, the one that is better… is the one that’s best for you! It’s a personal choice. No wrong answers here. If you prefer the smooth action of linear switches, then go linear! If you need that bump as you type and game, then tactile all the way! 

There is a middle ground, too. As more and more mechanical keyboards offer hot-swapping technology, you could even mix and match switches! Now, hot-swappable keyboards provide the option to remove and replace your switches, as they aren’t soldered in place. No warranties are voided either! You can freely swap between switches as your budget allows until you find the right set or combination. There’s nothing stopping you from adding light linear switches on frequently used game keys, like WASD and F, then opting for something with a tactile chronch on your spacebar or enter key. You do you, boo. 

Find Your Perfect Switch

Now, the tricky part. You’ve got the feedback down, now you have to settle on a specification. We have a guide to help you choose the right switches for you, and our full selection of switches and switch kits are ready to be browsed! There are even sample kits that offer a range of feedback, actuation forces, and travel distances so you can experiment without committing to a full set. Plus, if you’re going to be swapping out switches, you’ll need the right tool for the job! Lucky for you, we have a switch puller at the ready. 

Glorious Switch Puller For Mechanical Keyboard Switches

• Switch puller for mechanical switches
• Durable stainless steel
• Bend-proof arms,
• Ergonomic profile
• Stylish yellow colouring

Buy Now

Linear Vs Tactile: Which is Your Winner?

Are you Team Linear or Team Tactile? Let us know which is your preferred switch and why, in the comments below!