There are three main types of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and click/clicky.
Linear switches are the simplest switches. They feel the same from the moment the key is pressed until it is completely lowered. There is no haptic feedback or noise when the actuation point is reached (the point where a keystroke is registered - usually somewhere in the middle). Therefore, in most cases, you will probably be pressing the key to the edge with each press. Examples of linear switches:
Gateron Red/Black/Yellow, Kailh Box Red/Black, Cherry MX Red/Black.
Tactile switches provide tactile feedback when the activation point is reached. When you press a key, you'll notice a small pop to let you know that your keypress has successfully registered. Examples of tactile switches:
Gateron Brown/Baby Kangaroo, Kailh Box Brown/Royal, Cherry MX Brown.
Clicky switches provide an additional click sound when the activation point is reached. The main advantage of tactile and click switches is that you don't have to push the key all the way down. This type of switch appeals to those who type large amounts of text fairly often. Examples of click switches:
Gateron Green/Blue, Kailh BOX Jade/Navy, Cherry MX Blue.
