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Tactile switches are the unsung heroes of the mechanical keyboard world, offering the perfect balance between the smoothness of a linear switch and the clickiness of a clicky switch. In 2025, tactile switches continue to dominate, with a range of options that cater to typists, gamers, and productivity-focused individuals alike. Whether you’re looking for a soft bump or a more pronounced tactile experience, we’ve got you covered with the best tactile switches of the year.

Top 10 Tactile Mechanical Keyboard Switches in 2025

Gateron Green Apple

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 63g
• Bottom-Out Force: n/a
• Pre-Travel: 2.0mm
• Total Travel: 3.4mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Moderate

Introduced recently, the Gateron Green Apple switches have garnered attention for their POM housing and pronounced tactile feedback. Designed for those who appreciate a heavier actuation force, they offer a unique typing experience that's both responsive and satisfying.

Sillyworks x Gateron Type R

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 55g
• Bottom-Out Force: 60g
• Pre-Travel: 2.2mm
• Total Travel: 3.0mm
• Mount: Plate (3-pin) or PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Loud

A collaboration between Sillyworks and Gateron, the Type R switches are marketed as "100% Tactile." They introduce a novel tactile experience that has intrigued many in the mechanical keyboard community.

Keygeek Blue Cheese

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: g
• Bottom-Out Force: g
• Pre-Travel: mm
• Total Travel: mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Thocky

Earning the title of "thock king," the Keygeek Blue Cheese switches are celebrated for their deep sound signature. They cater to users seeking a rich auditory feedback with each keystroke.

Akko Penguin

• Switch Type: Silent Tactile
• Actuation Force: 50g
• Bottom-Out Force: 65g
• Pre-Travel: 2.0mm
• Total Travel: 3.3mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Quiet

The Akko Penguin offers a smooth tactile bump with a light, responsive feel, making it an excellent choice for those who want subtle feedback without the distraction of a loud click, all while delivering a satisfying typing experience.

Durock Ice King Tactile

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 58g
• Bottom-Out Force: 68g
• Pre-Travel: 2.0mm
• Total Travel: 3.5mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Thocky, Soft

The Durock Ice King Tactile feature a tactile bump with a high actuation force, providing a firm typing experience. They are fully transparent, constructed with nylon polymer housings and modified nylon stems, enhancing RGB shine-through. Factory-lubed with progressive springs, they offer smooth keystrokes.

Gazzew Boba U4T

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: n/a
• Bottom-Out Force: 62g or 68g
• Pre-Travel: 2.0mm
• Total Travel: 4.0mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Deep, Thocky

While primarily known for their tactile feedback, the Gazzew Boba U4T switches also produce a deep and satisfying 'thocky' sound. Their minimal pre-travel and pronounced tactile bump make them a top choice for many typists.

Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 45g
• Tactile Force: 55g
• Pre-Travel: 2.2mm
• Total Travel: 3.3mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Moderate

A budget-friendly tactile option, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches come pre-lubed from the factory, offering smooth movement and a higher-pitched sound profile. Their dustproof stem cover enhances typing stability, making them a solid choice for those seeking quality without breaking the bank.

Zeal Zealios V2

• Switch Type: Silent Tactile
• Actuation Force: n/a
• Bottom-Out Force: 62g, 65g, 67g or 78g
• Pre-Travel: 2.0mm
• Total Travel: 4.0mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Quiet

Zealios V2 switches are renowned for their sharp, satisfying tactile bump and smooth actuation. The heavier actuation force makes them perfect for users who want more pronounced feedback without going clicky. These switches are particularly loved by enthusiasts for their premium feel.

YOK BSUN Banana White Tactile

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 35g
• Bottom-Out Force: 56g
• Pre-Travel: 2.2mm
• Total Travel: 4.0mm
• Mount: PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Moderate, Thocky

YOK BSUN Banana White Tactile switches offer a smooth, responsive tactile bump with a moderate sound profile, making them an excellent choice for users seeking a quieter tactile experience without sacrificing feedback.

Cherry MX Brown

• Switch Type: Tactile
• Actuation Force: 55g
• Bottom-Out Force: n/a
• Pre-Travel: 2.2mm
• Total Travel: 4.0mm
• Mount: Plate (3-pin) or PCB (5-pin)
• Sound: Moderate

Cherry MX Browns are a classic tactile switch, offering a subtle but satisfying tactile bump with a quieter actuation compared to clicky switches. They’re popular among typists and gamers alike for their balanced feedback and smooth keystroke.

Tactile Switch FAQ

What is a tactile mechanical keyboard switch?

A tactile switch provides a noticeable bump when the key is pressed, giving feedback without the loud click of a clicky switch. This feedback helps users feel when a key has been actuated.

Are tactile switches good for gaming?

Yes, tactile switches are a popular choice for gaming because they provide feedback without the loud noise of clicky switches, allowing for a more responsive gaming experience.

What are the differences between tactile and clicky switches?

Tactile switches provide a bump of feedback without the loud click, while clicky switches have both a tactile bump and an audible click. Tactile switches are quieter than clicky ones but still provide clear feedback.

How do I choose the best tactile switch for me?

Consider factors like actuation force (lighter vs. heavier), sound level (quiet vs. loud), and the type of tactile feedback you prefer. It helps to try out a few switches to find the one that suits your typing or gaming style.