Tactile vs Clicky Switches: What's the Difference?

Tactile and clicky switches both have a bump you feel when the key registers. The difference is sound: a clicky switch adds a deliberate, loud click at that bump, while a tactile switch is quiet about it. Choose tactile if anyone else can hear you type, and clicky if you want the most audible feedback and the room is yours.

Tactile vs clicky vs linear

Colors are only a rough guide; see switch colors explained.

How do clicky switches make the click?

A clicky switch has an extra part, such as a click jacket around the stem or a small click bar, that snaps as the stem passes the bump. That snap is the click. A tactile switch has the bump shaped into the stem's legs without anything to snap, so you feel it but barely hear it.

Which is better for typing?

Both give typists feedback that the key has registered, so you can stop pressing before you bottom out. Clicky adds an audible confirmation that some typists love. Tactile gives the same feedback quietly, which is why it's the more common choice.

Which is better for gaming?

Tactile, usually, and linear even more so. The click is loud on a headset mic and some clicky designs feel slightly less consistent on rapid presses. Many gamers prefer the smooth press of a linear; see linear vs tactile switches.

Why do people dislike clicky switches?

Mostly the noise. The click carries across a room and through microphones, so clicky keyboards are unpopular in offices, shared homes and voice chat. On your own, the same click is exactly what fans like about them.

How do they sound in community ratings?

Clicky switches are built to be heard, but the rest of the build still shapes the overall sound. Here's how each switch type scores:

Should you get tactile or clicky?

• Shared space, calls or streaming? Tactile, or a silent tactile.
• Want maximum feedback and nobody minds? Clicky.
• Not sure? Tactile is the safer pick, and on a hot-swap keyboard you can always try clicky later.