user: What types of mechanical keyboard switches are there? What are their properties?

assistant: Mechanical keyboards are popular among gamers, programmers, and anyone who types for extended periods. These keyboards use mechanical switches instead of the rubber domes used in traditional keyboards. Mechanical switches provide tactile feedback, which results in a more satisfying typing experience. There are several types of mechanical keyboard switches, including:

1. Cherry MX switches: These are some of the most popular mechanical switches and are used in many high-end keyboards. They come in different colors, each with different properties.
    - Cherry MX Red switches have a linear feel and require less force to actuate. They are preferred by gamers for their fast response time.
    - Cherry MX Brown switches have a tactile bump and are quieter than other switches. They are preferred by typists for their tactile feedback.
    - Cherry MX Blue switches have a tactile bump and an audible click, making them the loudest switches. They are also preferred by typists for their tactile feedback.

2. Kailh switches: These are Chinese-made switches that are similar to Cherry MX switches. They are cheaper than Cherrie MX switches and are becoming more popular.
    - Kailh Red switches are linear and require less force to actuate.
    - Kailh Brown switches have a tactile bump and are quieter than other switches.
    - Kailh Blue switches have a tactile bump and an audible click, making them similar to Cherry MX Blue switches.

3. Gateron switches: These are similar to Cherry MX switches but are made by a Chinese company. They are cheaper than     - Cherry MX switches and are becoming more popular.
    - Gateron Red switches are linear and require less force to actuate.
    - Gateron Brown switches have a tactile bump and are quieter than other switches.
    - Gateron Blue switches have a tactile bump and an audible click, making them similar to Cherry MX Blue switches.

4. Topre switches: These are electrostatic capacitive switches that provide a different typing experience. They are quieter and require less force to actuate.
    - Topre switches have a tactile bump and are preferred by typists for their typing experience.

5. Buckling Spring switches: These switches use a spring and a plastic cylinder to provide tactile feedback. They are the loudest and heaviest switches.
    - Buckling Spring switches have a tactile bump and an audible click. They are preferred by typists for their tactile feedback.

user: Youtubers keep recommending I try a switch before I buy one but how do I try a switch when shopping online, I'm not super picky but switches are too expensive to make a mistake when shopping.

assistant: Trying out switches in person is definitely the best way to get a feel for them, but if that's not possible, there are a few other things you can do to make an informed decision when shopping for switches online.

First, you can read reviews and watch videos of people using the switches you're interested in. This can give you an idea of the general feel and sound of the switch.

Second, you can purchase a switch tester. These are small devices that contain several different switches for you to try out. They are relatively inexpensive and can be a good way to get a feel for different switch types before making a larger investment.

Finally, some keyboard manufacturers offer a return policy, so you can try out a keyboard with the switches you're interested in and return it if you're not satisfied. Be sure to check the return policy before making a purchase to ensure you have that option.

Ultimately, it's important to do your research and understand what you're looking for in a switch before making a purchase. With some careful consideration and a bit of experimentation, you should be able to find a switch that works well for you.