There seem to be a lot variations in switch types, reverse clicky, forward clicky, magnetic rings, and electronic switches, either side or tail mounted. No judging, just curious. What is your personal switch preference?
Definitely reverse clickies on multiple mode P60 type lights. Forward clickies on single modes or if mode selection separated by a second button or head twist. Twisties on keychain lights, so that they can save a cm or two.
I prefer reverse clickies most I guess. A single mode reverse clicky light doesn’t bother much but a multi mode forward clicky is just baaaad. 
On smaller lights (up to P60 host size), I prefer tail switches, and it’s reverse clicky all the way (unless we’re talking single mode lights). On larger lights, I definitely prefer side switches.
Favorite is a rotator ring coupled with forward-clicky master switch. Allows for temporary flashing in predefined output setting and also kills parasitic drain when unused. Rotator allows easy on/off and mode selection during periods of use.
Second favorite is an electronic side-clicky for multi-mode lights with lockout tailcap to prevent accidental activation. Mechanical side-clicky for single mode lights.
For single mode lights a forward-clicky.
Tail-switch multi-mode lights a reverse-clicky only.
Forward clicky for on/off + Selector ring for mode switching… haven’t found an 18650-based pocket-EDC with this yet though 
Olight M21-X Warrior is kinda in this ballpark. It’s not a selector ring of course, but mode switching occurs by slightly twisting the head.
Sideswitch no1, no2 fw clicky.
This is pretty close but not exactly a budget light: http://www.hkequipment.net/index.php?sp=&p=6&cat2=60&cat1=8&cat0=1&id=1097&cat1=8&cat0=1&new=&more=&s=af1e66baad63b2391d4464655bfc6c3e&lang=en
Interesting, but I’m looking for an actual selector ring that will allow me to select the mode before turning on the light.
@JohnnyMac: Looks very interesting, does the control ring click into each different mode audibly? I’d like to be able to switch the modes with the light off by feel/sound alone…
I don’t have one to tell you for 100% however, since it is a stepped selector and not infinite, it will have detented clicks for each mode and should be audible as well as tactile. I am betting it is exactly the same as on my Darth and my other selector lights with detented modes.
My Sunwayman V20A light has a ring that can be set before the light is switched on. It doesn’t have stops at different modes though. I believe they use a magnetic compass to sense the position of the magnet on the ring. So, if an angle is set it is set both in on or off.
If you have a few bucks to spare on a different magnetic ring light, you could spend $15 in worse ways. Give this one a try. It is only an XR-E Q5 but it throws very well and is a fun little light. It also comes in a 16340 size (same head but shorter battery tube) for the same price. The only complaint I have about mine (I have both) is that it won’t come on via the tail switch if the ring is set to low mode. Has to be in medium or high or one of the two flashy modes.
There is also this light for $15 but I don't have one. Looks pretty nice though even though it, too, is an XR-E.
Edit: Never mind on this last one from BIC. It doesn't have a tail switch. Rotator ring only.
Reverse clicky for multi-mode lights
Forward clicky for single-mode lights, or lights with the modes selected by a different switch or collar.
I can pretty much get used to any switch, so switch type really is not a deal breaker for me and other design elements take a much higher priority.
The only switch type that has a clear advantage (for me) is switchless, twist-cap designs. I like them because they can be unscrewed and locked out for pack storage and EDC. I also appreciate the added reliability and simplicity of design.
+1