Are Blue Switches Always Clicky? Understanding Mechanical Keyboard Switch Colors

Cherry MX Blue mechanical keyboard switches offer both a tactile bump and that unmistakable audible click, which is something you either love or hate, and over time, people started associating color with switch type. Blues are clicky, Reds are Linear, and browns are tactile.

That being said, blue does not always mean clicky. Some brands make blue switches that are actually linear switches (smooth) or tactile switches (bumpy). This is worth keeping in mind when shopping for switches for your next keyboard build.

Why "Blue" Usually Means Clicky

The classic example is the Cherry MX Blue, a tactile, clicky switch that became the poster child for typewriter-style feedback. Cherry itself markets it as providing both tactile and audible feedback, calling it "noticeable, acoustic feedback" thanks to its "striking click" mechanism.

Other brands adopted the blue color to indicate a similar feel. Kailh's Blue, for example, is a light clicky switch heavily inspired by MX Blue. When you set your keyboard with these blues, you are almost certainly choosing that clicky, expressive sound.

But Here's Where It Gets Interesting: Kinetic Labs' Blue Options

Kinetic Labs sells several blue-labeled switches that break the clicky mold:

• HMX Blue Topaz Linear – Despite the name, these are fully linear, smooth with no tactile bump. They have a "clacky sound profile" and factory lubrication, but there is no click mechanism.
• Durock Blue Lotus Tactile – These are tactile switches where you feel a bump but hear no click. There is no click bar here, just some solid tactile feedback.
• Tbcats Blue Balloon V2 Linear – Another linear option, these switches are smooth, pre-lubed, and the "blue" stem does not indicate clickiness at all.
• Arctic Fox Clicky – A clicky option that is actually blue.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you spot a switch with blue components, don't automatically assume it is clicky. It is best to read the product description before purchasing, as it can be a linear tactile or even a silent switch.

Why This Matters

Typing experience is dramatically different depending on which type of switch you are using. Clicky switches feel nostalgic and rhythmic, adding audio punch to every keystroke. Tactile blues without click bars create a more refined feel, with feedback you can feel but not necessarily hear. Silent linear blues take it one step further, keeping the keystroke smooth and stealthy.

The environment also plays a role. Loud clicky blues can be exciting in a private setup, but may frustrate coworkers or roommates.

Finally, customization is at the heart of mechanical keyboards. Understanding that not all blue switches are clicky allows you to tailor your board precisely to your preferences rather than relying on the color as a way to differentiate switch types.

TL;DR

While most blue switches are clicky, many options break this tradition. The safest approach is to verify the details of each switch before buying so you get exactly the experience you want.