The Best Mechanical Switches for Typing

Start with comfort

Tactile mid‑weight switches suit most typists. If you press hard, consider heavier tactiles. If you prefer effortless motion, try light linears with lube.

Match to use‑case

Coders: accuracy and symbol control > crisp tactility. Writers: fatigue matters > smooth linears or gentle tactiles. Data entry: rhythm > light linears.

Switch families (quick guide)

• Linear: smooth travel, low noise (e.g., Cherry Red, Gateron Yellow) — great for long sessions
• Tactile: bump mid‑travel (e.g., Cherry Brown, Boba U4T) — clear actuation feedback
• Clicky: audible click (e.g., Cherry Blue) — strong feedback, but can be fatiguing/noisy

Comfort checklist

• Actuation 45–55g for most; go lighter if fatigue, heavier if bottoming out
• Keycap profile you like (e.g., Cherry vs OEM); avoid hunting by feel changes
• Desk height and chair support tuned before blaming switches