Linear, Tactile or Clicky? A Beginner’s Guide to Mechanical Keyboard Switches
gomez
, , Tech Explained
Linear, Tactile or Clicky? A Beginner’s Guide to Mechanical Keyboard Switches

The switch under each key decides how a mechanical keyboard feels and sounds. There are three main types, and choosing the right one makes all the difference.

Linear switches

Linear switches move straight up and down with no bump or click. They are smooth and quiet, and many gamers love them for rapid, repeated keypresses.

Best for: fast-paced gaming and anyone who wants a smooth, quiet feel.

Tactile switches

Tactile switches have a small bump partway through the keypress, letting you feel the moment the key registers. This feedback helps you type accurately without pressing every key all the way down.

Best for: typing, programming and mixed use. A great all-rounder.

Clicky switches

Clicky switches combine a tactile bump with an audible click. They are very satisfying to type on, but loud, so they might not be popular in a shared office.

Best for: people who love feedback and work alone.

Other things to consider

  • Actuation force: how hard you need to press. Lighter switches feel faster; heavier ones help prevent accidental presses.
  • Travel distance: how far the key moves before it registers.
  • Hot-swappable boards: let you change switches without soldering.

Still not sure?

Tactile switches are the safest starting point. They offer a good balance of feedback and noise for both work and play.

Our pick

New to mechanical keyboards? The Ember RGB uses tactile switches, an ideal all-rounder for gaming and typing. Check out the Ember RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard in our shop.

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IPX Ratings Explained: How Waterproof Is Your Bluetooth Speaker?
gomez
, , Tech Explained
IPX Ratings Explained: How Waterproof Is Your Bluetooth Speaker?

If you have shopped for a portable speaker, earbuds or a smartwatch, you have probably seen codes like IPX4 or IP67. These are Ingress Protection ratings, an international standard that describes how well a device resists dust and water.

How to read an IP rating

An IP rating has two digits. The first digit (0 to 6) is protection against solids like dust. The second digit (0 to 9) is protection against water. An “X” simply means the device was not tested for that category.

Common water ratings

  • IPX4: Protected against splashes from any direction. Fine for light rain and sweat.
  • IPX5: Protected against water jets. Handles heavier rain and a quick rinse under the tap.
  • IPX6: Protected against powerful water jets.
  • IPX7: Can be submerged in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes. Pool-side safe.
  • IPX8: Can survive continuous submersion beyond 1 metre (the manufacturer specifies the depth).

What about dust?

A first digit of 6 means the device is completely dust-tight, ideal for the beach or camping. IP67 means fully dust-tight and submersible to 1 metre.

Tips for protecting your gear

  • Close any port covers before exposing a device to water.
  • Rinse off salt water and chlorine with fresh water afterwards.
  • Let devices dry fully before charging.
  • Remember that water resistance can reduce over time with wear.

Our pick

Need a speaker that can take a splash? The StormBox is IPX7 waterproof and dustproof, built for the outdoors. Check out the StormBox Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker in our shop.

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Noise Cancelling vs Noise Isolating Headphones: What’s the Difference?
gomez
, , Tech Explained
Noise Cancelling vs Noise Isolating Headphones: What’s the Difference?

You will often see headphones described as “noise cancelling” or “noise isolating”. They sound similar, but the technology behind them is very different, and so is the price.

What is noise isolation?

Noise isolation is passive. It simply blocks sound physically, the same way earplugs do. Thick ear cushions on over-ear headphones or a tight seal from silicone ear tips create a barrier between your ears and the outside world.

Passive isolation works best on higher-frequency sounds like voices, keyboard clicks and clattering cutlery.

What is active noise cancellation?

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is electronic. Tiny microphones on the headphones listen to the noise around you, and a processor generates an inverted sound wave that cancels it out before it reaches your ears.

ANC is especially effective against constant, low-frequency sounds such as aeroplane engines, train rumble and air conditioning hum.

Which should you choose?

  • Frequent traveller or commuter? Go for ANC. It makes long journeys far less tiring.
  • Working in a busy office? ANC combined with good passive isolation gives the best results.
  • On a tight budget? Well-fitting noise-isolating headphones can still block a lot of sound.

The best of both worlds

The best headphones combine both: a comfortable, well-sealed over-ear design for passive isolation plus ANC for the low rumbles. Many also include a “transparency” or “ambient” mode that lets outside sound in when you need to hear announcements or have a quick chat.

Our pick

Want serious peace and quiet? The AuraSound Pro pairs plush over-ear cushions with active noise cancellation. Check out the AuraSound Pro Wireless Headphones in our shop.

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