A smooth press
Linear
No intentional bump or click in the travel. Many people like the uninterrupted motion for repeated presses.
Smooth → bottom
02 / SWITCHES
Three ways a keypress can feel.
Linear, tactile and clicky describe the switch action under a key. They are a starting point for choosing feel, not a promise of how a complete keyboard will sound.
A felt bump
Tactile
A bump in the travel gives your finger feedback without a built-in click mechanism.
Press → bump → bottom
A bump and click
Clicky
A distinct click mechanism adds audible feedback as the key actuates.
Press → bump + click → bottom
Feel and sound are different questions.
Feel
Switch action, spring force and travel shape the motion under your finger. Compare specific models and their stated measurements before deciding.
Sound
The switch is one part of the sound. Keycaps, plate, case and the desk can change what you hear from the finished board.
BEFORE A SWAP
Check the exact board and socket.
Hot-swap support and switch fit depend on the board variant, PCB and switch system. A name or color alone is not a compatibility check.