Cherry MX switches aren’t just a favorite among gamers and typists, but they have gained popularity among many creative professionals. What exactly are these switches and what can they do?
You will find out the basics of Cherry MX Switches and some extra information about their design. You’ll also discover what switches are best for certain types of games, what switch colors look best with which keyboard colors, and more!
Quick answer!
here’s a quick overview of the most common Cherry MX switches and their characteristics:
- Cherry MX Red: Linear switch with low actuation force and no tactile feedback, good for gaming and fast typists who don’t want a tactile bump.
- Cherry MX Brown: Tactile switch with a small tactile bump, medium actuation force, and relatively quiet operation, good for typing and gaming.
- Cherry MX Blue: Tactile and clicky switch with a large tactile bump and audible click, higher actuation force, and relatively loud operation, good for typing but may not be suitable for shared environments.
- Cherry MX Black: Linear switch with high actuation force, no tactile feedback, and relatively quiet operation, good for heavy typists and gamers who prefer a stiffer switch.
Keep in Mind that, the best Cherry MX switch for you will depend on your personal preference, typing style, and intended use. It’s recommended to try out different switches before making a purchase to see which one suits you the best.
Here’s a Full Ultimate guide to the different types of Cherry MX switches and the popular keyboard layout switches, which one is for you?
Quick Guide about cherry MX Switches (Compression table)
When it comes to choosing the right Cherry MX switch for your keyboard, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- The first thing to consider is your typing style. Do you type fast or slowly? What kind of keys do you use most often? Do you like tactile feedback or faster response times?
- The next factor to consider is what kind of keyboard you have. Do you have an older model that only uses Cherry MX switches, or are you using a new model with multiple options?
- And take into account your budget. Are you willing to spend a bit more on a premium switch? Or can you get by with an affordable option?
Before we dig deep into the Guide, here is a Quick compression Table of different cherry MX Switches, so you can easily understand. And Select a Suitable Switch for your keyboard.
| Switches | Type | Description | Actuation Rating | Actuation weight | Best For |
| MX Green | Clicky | Its Provides a Medium bump when you are typing | 50 million keystrokes | 80g | For Those Who are Expert in typing |
| MX Red | Linear | Best choice for gamers | 100 million keystrokes | 45g | Gaming |
| MX Blue | Clicky | It’s Clicky and provides mid bump while typing | 50 million keystrokes | 60g | Typing as well for gaming |
| MX Grey | Tactile | Provides tactile feed when you are typing | 80 million Keystrokes | 80g | Typing |
| MX Brown | Tactile | Feel bum when typing and Light actuation | 100 million keystrokes | 55g | Use it for all Purposes like typing and gaming |
| MX Black | Linear | No bumping experience. Smooth typing experience. | 100 million keystrokes | 60g | Best for Gaming |
What is Cherry MX switches?
Cherry MX switches are one of the most popular switch types in the world. They come in many different styles and layouts, but they all have one thing in common: they’re incredibly fast and responsive.
The Cherry MX switch is a button-type keyboard switch that uses a metal spring to generate the key press. The button is held down by a small piece of plastic that presses against the arm of the switch.
This pressure creates a small electrical current, which moves the metal contact inside the switch.
This design makes Cherry MX switches incredibly fast and responsive. Compared to other switch types, like traditional mechanical switches or rubber dome switches, Cherry MX switches are about 70% faster.
This means you can expect your keys to react much more quickly when you press them down.
How cherry MX switches Are Build and how do they Work?
Cherry MX switches are a popular type of keyboard switch that are well known for their durability and responsiveness. They are typically built using a process called “keycap injection molding,”.
Which is a very precise and time-consuming technique that creates these witch’s housing from a plastic compound.
After the housing has been created, the switch is then placed inside and the mold is closed around it. This process causes the keycap to be pressed directly against the metal contacts inside the switch, which results in an incredibly durable, responsive design.
Cherry MX switches are actuated by a steel spring. This means that they have a lighter feel than other switch types, making them ideal for gaming keyboards and mice.
Some other common features of Cherry MX switches include Metal-plated contacts and Crosspoint technology, which both contribute to their durability and responsiveness.
Crosspoint technology allows different switch types (such as Tactile/Clicky) to be combined on one single keyboard, while gold-plating ensures that contact points stay lubricated even under extreme conditions.
Which Cherry Mx Switch Is Best For You? Quick Answer
What are the Characteristics Of Cherry MX Switch?
Cherry MX switches are some of the best gaming keyboards on the market. They’re known for their fast response times, loud clicky noise, and durability. Here are five of the most important characteristics of Cherry MX switches:
1. Fast Response Times
Cherry MX switches are one of the fastest types of keyboard switches out there. They have a response time of about 1 m of a second, which is much faster than other types of switches like rubber domes or membranes.
This means that your actions in-game will happen almost immediately, letting you react more quickly to what’s happening onscreen.
2. Loud Clicky Noise
Another great feature about Cherry MX switches is their loud clicky noise. It makes it easy to hear when you hit keys and helps keep you focused while you’re playing games or typing. Plus, it just looks cool
3. Durability
Cherry MX switches are some of the most durable types of keyboard switches out there. They typically last around 50 million keystrokes, which is significantly longer than other types of keyboard switches like rubber dome or membrane.
This means that they can handle a lot more wear and tear over the long term without breaking down.
4. Customizable Switches and Key Capsules
One downside to many other keyboard switch types is that they don’t allow for very customizable keycaps or switches themselves.
With Cherry MX switches, you can choose from a variety of different switch types and keycaps to suit your needs exactly. This means that you can create the perfect keyboard for your specific gaming needs.
5. Wide Range of Compatibility
One of the great things about Cherry MX switches is that they’re widely compatible with most computers and gaming devices.
They work with both PC and Macs, as well as most gaming consoles like the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. This means that you can easily switch between different games or applications without having to reset your keyboard or change out its keys.
Plate Mount vs PCB Mount Switches?
How to Choose the Right Cherry MX Switch?
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a keyboard switch is its actuation point. This is the point at which the key press transmits electrical signals to the computer, and can be thought of as the “switch.” There are many different types of switches available on the market, each with their own unique characteristics and uses.
Here are some tips on how to choose the right Cherry MX switch for your needs:
Determine what you need:
Do you need a fast response time? A low actuation point? A tactile feel? All of these factors will affect which type of switch is best for you.
look at each switch’s actuation point range:
Some switches have a wide range, while others have a more specific range. It’s important to know what you’re looking for so that you can find a switch that fits your specifications.
Consider how big or small your hands are:
Switches with smaller actuation points are best for people with smaller hands because they require less force to activate them.
Switches with larger actuation points are better suited for people with bigger hands because they require less force to activate them but also take up more space on the keyboard.
Consider cost and availability:
Some switches are more expensive than others, but sometimes there are discounts available if you buy in bulk or through certain retailers. Availability can also be an issue – some switches are more common than others, so you may have to wait longer to find them in stock.
Test Different Switches for Yourself:
Finally, test out different switches to see which one feels the best for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment – different switches can feel different when pressed.
Optical vs Mechanical Keyboard Switches. Which is better
What are the Major types of Cherry MX Switches?
Cherry MX switches are some of the most popular and widely used switches on the market. They offer a great deal of key features for users looking for a switch that will provide them with long-term performance.
While there are other types of switches available, Cherry MX switches are likely to be the best fit for most users.
Cherry MX switches come in three types: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches are the most common type and offer a smooth action with low resistance.
Tactile switches have a bumpier action that provides a more tactile experience. Clicky switches have a short actuation distance and provide a fast response time.
Now we Move to the Each Switches Character stick and Typing Experience.
First of all Start From Linear Switches.
1. Linear Switches
Cherry MX linear switches are some of the most popular switches on the market. Linear Switches Provide a smooth glide through a keystroke. These switches are suitable and the perfect selections who want a smoother typing experience and a low sound profile.
They offer great action with low resistance, making them a great choice for users looking for a switch with long-term performance.
Linear Switches come in two types.
Cherry MX Red
Type: Linear
Feel/Sound: Smooth and Quiet
Actuation Force: 45g
Bottom-Out Force: 75g
Actuation Distance: 2mm
Travel Distance: 4mm
If you’re looking for a switch that offers the best performance and durability, then you should consider investing in a Cherry MX Red switch. Cherry MX red is quitter than the other Clicky switches like brown or blue.
These switches are made from top-quality materials and are designed to last long. They offer a linear switching action and are resistant to dirt, dust, and moisture.
Cherry MX Black
Type: Linear
Feel/Sound: Smooth and Quiet
Actuation Force: 60g
Bottom-Out Force: 85g
Actuation Distance: 2mm
Travel Distance: 4mm
These switches are generally considered to be the best option for fast typing, thanks to their low resistance and high click rate. They’re also popular among gamers because they provide reliable input while gaming. And This kind of switches are require higher actuatuion force.
2. Clicky Switches
Tactile switches have a bumpier action and provide a more tactile experience. Clicky switches have a short actuation distance and provide a fast response time.
These Switches are for those people who love to type with a clicky typing experience and enjoy tactile bumps. This switch’s typing experience is like a typewriter.
Cherry MX Blue
- 60 cN operating force
- 2.2 mm pre-travel
- 4.0 mm total travel
- With click
Cherry MX Blue is one of the clicky options. When you are typing you can feel keystroke with clicky Noise and bounce back which feels amazing.
These switches are great for those who want a softer feel when typing, as they have a lower resistance and a lower click rate than the other options. They’re also popular among typists who need to make less noise.
Cherry MX Green
- 80 cN operating force
- 2.2 mm pre-travel
- 4.0 mm total travel
- With click
This is another one of the amazing clicky choices, they are perfect for everyone. these switches are heavier than the blue ones and you will fine very less.
Green switches are designed for users who want a more tactile response when typing. They have a higher resistance than the other Cherry MX switches and provide a slightly heavier feel when typing.
Cherry MX White
Cherry MX White is the same as green switches but these switches are not used commonly. These switches are the least popular option but are still popular among users who want a lighter feel when typing. They have lower resistance and a lower click rate than the other Cherry MX switches.
3. Tactile Switches
Cherry MX tactile switches are another popular option and offer great action with low resistance. They provide a more tactile experience than linear switches, while still offering the same great performance.
Tactile Switches provide a similar pumping experience to clicky switches, while you are typing. But they don’t provide more clicky noise like clicky switches, they are silent sound profiles.
Cherry MX Brown
- Tactile switching characteristics
- 55 cN operating force
- 2.0 mm pre travel
- 4.0 mm total travel
Cherry MX brown mostly uses keyboard switches. And they are the perfect choice for typing as well as for gaming too. These switches are perfect if you want an intermediate level of accuracy and speed. They’re slightly more resistant than the Cherry MX Black switches but still provide good feedback.
Cherry MX Egro Clear
- Tactile switching characteristics
- 55 cN operating force
- 2.0 mm pre-travel
- 4.0 mm total travel
Cherry MX Clear switches are the least popular of all the Cherry MX switches. They are basically a variant of the Cherry MX Blue switch that has been intentionally designed to have reduced feedback and faster actuation times.
This is useful for gaming keyboards that require fast reflexes but don’t want to affect the precision of the game.
Cherry MX Grey
- Tactile switching characteristics
- 80 cN operating force
- 2.0 mm pre travel
- 4.0 mm total travel
The Cherry MX Grey switch is a Tactile-only version of the Cherry MX switch. It is designed for use with a keyboard for a satisfying typing experience. This switch offers the same great tactility and responsiveness as the other Cherry MX switches but does not feature any RGB lighting capabilities.
4. Cherry MX Low Profile Switches
Cherry MX Low Profile Red
- Linear switching
- 45 cN operating force
- 1.2 mm pre travel
- 3.2 mm total travel
Cherry MX Low Profile Red switches are designed for low-profile keyboards. They come with a shorter travel distance and a lower actuation force than other Cherry MX switches, which makes them perfect for compact machines.
Cherry MX Low Profile Speed Silver
- Linear switching
- 45 cN operating force
- 1.0 mm pre travel
- 3.2 mm total travel
The Cherry MX Low Profile Speed Silver switch is designed for gaming keyboards. It has a shorter actuation distance and a lower actuation force than other Cherry MX switches, which makes it perfect for fast-paced gaming.
5. Specific Switches of Cherry MX
Cherry MX Silent Red
- Linear switching characteristics
- 45 cN operating force
- 1.9 mm pre-travel
- 3.7 mm total travel
If you’re looking for a switch with the best tactile feedback available, then the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is perfect for you. It’s also one of the quietest switches on the market, making it ideal for gaming or typing in quiet environments.
Cherry MX Silent Black
- Linear switching characteristics
- 60 cN operating force
- 1.9 mm pre-travel
- 3.7 mm total travel
If you’re looking for the quietest switch available, then the Cherry MX Silent Black switch is perfect for you. It’s also one of the most tactile switches on the market, providing excellent feedback and clunkiness.
6. Speed Switches
Cherry MX Speed Silver
- Linear switching characteristics
- 45 cN operating force
- 1.2 mm pre travel
- 3.4 mm total travel
Cherry MX Speed Silver switches are a great choice for gamers who want fast, responsive play. They are perfect for use with gaming keyboards that require quick responses and accurate control.
The Cherry MX Speed Silver switches have a 45-gram actuation force and a travel distance of 2.2mm. This makes them one of the lightest switches available, making them ideal for gaming keyboards that are designed to be portable.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a full guide about the Cherry MX switches, look no further. In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about these iconic gaming keyboards, from their design and construction to how they work and what makes them so great for gaming as well as for typing experts.
As far as performance goes, Cherry MX switches are legendary among gamers and Writers. They offer lightning-fast response times (just 1 ms on average), which means that you’ll be able to react quickly to any onscreen action.
Plus, they’re notably durable – even during prolonged gaming sessions – meaning that you can count on them to last for years without issue.
FAQs:
What are Cherry MX switches?
Cherry MX switches are mechanical key switches commonly used in mechanical keyboards. They are known for their durability and tactile feedback, which makes them popular among gamers and typists.
How many types of Cherry MX switches are there?
Cherry MX switches come in several different types, including Blue, Brown, Red, Black, Silver, and Green. Each type has its own unique characteristics, such as tactile feedback or actuation force.
What is the difference between the Cherry MX switch types?
The main differences between the Cherry MX switch types are their tactile feedback and actuation force. For example, Cherry MX Blue switches have a tactile bump and an audible click, while Cherry MX Red switches have a linear feel with no tactile feedback.
Which Cherry MX switch type is best for gaming?
The tactile feedback of Cherry MX Brown or Blue switches is one of the best choices for gaming. while You can buy Cherry MX Red or Black With a smoother experience with linear Switches.
What is actuation force?
Actuation force is the amount of force required to press a key and register a keystroke. Cherry MX switches come in different actuation forces, ranging from 45g for Cherry MX Red switches to 80g for Cherry MX Green switches.
Are Cherry MX switches noisy?
Cherry MX switches can be noisy, especially the Blue and Green switch types, which have an audible click. However, other switch types, such as Red and Brown, are quieter and may be more suitable for office environments or shared spaces.
How do I know which Cherry MX switch type is right for me?
The best way to determine which Cherry MX switch type is right for you is to try out different types and see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive.
You can also read reviews and watch videos online to get a better understanding of each switch type’s characteristics.
I am Rai Saleem (MSc. Computer Science). Worked with Different Tech StartUps. I have 4+ Years of Working Experience in the Computer Industry. On This platform, I share My Experience and Providing Solutions for Computer problems.
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