Use Switch When
You want explicit branch switching without file-level ambiguity.
You prefer clearer intent and newer Git ergonomics.
Compare
git switch vs checkout
How the newer branch-switching command compares to the older multi-purpose checkout behavior.
`git switch` exists to make branch movement clearer and safer. `git checkout` still works, but it mixes branch operations with file-level operations in a way that can be harder to parse quickly.
Use Checkout When
You are in an older workflow or documentation context that still centers checkout.
You need one command that covers both branch and path operations, even if it is less explicit.
Rule of Thumb
Switch is clearer for branches. Checkout is older and broader.
Want the short version? Browse the compact sheet views and save the commands you use most into a Cheatbook.