Manufacturers like to brand the types of mechanical switches they have to offer so understanding which one is best for you can be confusing at first. In general, there are three types of mechanical switches: Linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear: Keystroke will press down smoothly with little to no noise.Tactile: Keystroke will press down with a small bump in the middle and moderate noise.Clicky: Keystroke will press down with a small bump in the middle and a loud click noise.