Linear, vs Clicky, vs Tactile Switches.
Before we get into this, let me say that Mechanical keyboards are available in all the above configurations. Especially for gaming. Clicky are popular because they make a lot of noise, but for those less experienced with mechanical keyboards, pretty much associate them with gaming keyboards as one in the same, especially newer pc gamers. the more eperienced you get the More you learn about linear and tactile.
Each Mechanical Switch has their own sound profile. Linears tend to be quieter and more tocky, tactile have a single click or clack in their tock as well as a tactile bump, and Clicky click and clack multiple times like little metal maracas. Clicky Switches are why people are annoyed by gaming keyboards and new pc gamers. NGL, if we're talking blue switches so am I, the only Clicky switches I like are Kailh Box Whites and Box Jades, Box Jades are more for typing as they simulate the sound and feel of a type writer. If your looking for the perfect keyboard for the Novelist in your family, Aspiring Seminary Student, or your friend that just Published his Thesis for his PHD, Box Jades are probably your best bet. They're preferred for typing over gaming.
Linears are the smoothest and said to theoretically bottom out the quickest, so for fast combos people tend to prefer Linears. Especially in MOBA's and rhythm games. Tactiles can also hold their own, and the resistance of the tactile bump offers some level of control. I feel Comfortable recommending any Linear or Tactile for gaming, as long as they are not Cherry MX Switches. Although Cherry MX clones, like Kailh (Kaihua) or Gateron, I'm perfectly comfortable recommending. Reason being has to do with clicks per useful life they're rated for. Cherry mx switches tend to be rated 30 Million, where as Kailh and Gateron tend to be Rated 70 Million. When Your Gaming you are doing a lot of abusive button smashing, hence the durability of your switches matters. Other than that it pretty much boils down to preference.
Linears tend to be preferred by experienced Gamers.
Clicky's tend to be preferred by newer Gamers. In the Typing Community Tactile and Clicky are preferred universally over Linear Switches.
And what most people agree on, is Linear and Tactile both tend top be better for gaming.
There is one Clicky Switch I would recommend for Gaming and those are Kailh Box Whites that have a Solid and Stable Click Bar. You get the satisfaction of Clicky Switches sound and feel, for you Tiny Metal Maraca Lovers, but without your friends, family, ancestors, neighbors wanting to murder you. Button Mashing Cheaper Clicky Switches, Like Blue Switches, Low Key gets annoying and those Sensitive to certain frequencies will feel it ear piercing. Because of the Click Bar Design, this normally isn't a problem for Kailh Box Whites and can actually be rather pleasant Keyboard ASMR. Now Why get a Custom Keyboard?
You can control what switch you use, add dampening foam, make sure your switches are properly lubed. This makes for a better sound profile and better feel when typing as the foam fills in the gap, and the switch glides more smoothly when actuated, or you know, when clicked.
My ultimate Recommendation, is build a key board, or use whichever Switch you like, whether Linear, Tactile, Clicky at the end of the day, its all personal preference.
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