Cherry Mx Black vs Red: Which Switch Is Right for You?
Choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which one is the best fit for your needs? Today, we’re diving deep into a classic face-off: the Cherry MX Black vs Red switches.
These two switches are popular choices, each offering a unique typing experience. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or simply someone who appreciates a quality keyboard, understanding the differences between Cherry MX Black and Red is crucial.
In this comparison, we’ll explore the key characteristics of both switches. We’ll examine their feel, sound, and suitability for different tasks. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which Cherry MX switch is the perfect match for your typing style and preferences.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Black | Red |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Linear | Linear |
| Actuation Force | 60 cN | 45 cN |
| Actuation Distance | 2 mm | 2 mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4 mm | 4 mm |
| Tactile Feedback | No | No |
| Sound Profile | Thocky | Thocky |
| Spring Type | Standard | Standard |
| Mounting | PCB Mount | PCB Mount |
| Durability | 50 million keystrokes | 50 million keystrokes |
| Stem Color | Black | Red |
| Application | Gaming, Typing | Gaming, Typing |
| Responsiveness | Fast | Fast |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Actuation Force
- Cherry Mx Black: Requires a heavier actuation force, typically around 60g. This can lead to fewer accidental key presses, but may cause fatigue during extended typing sessions. Some users prefer the resistance for a more deliberate feel.
- Red: Has a lighter actuation force, usually around 45g. This makes them easier to press, leading to faster typing and gaming. However, it can also result in more accidental key presses.
- Winner: black
Actuation Point
- Cherry Mx Black: Has a non-tactile, non-clicky feel. The actuation point is usually around 2mm.
- Red: Also non-tactile and non-clicky, with an actuation point around 2mm, similar to black.
- Winner: Tie
Tactility
- Cherry Mx Black: Completely linear, offering no tactile feedback. This provides a smooth and consistent feel throughout the keypress. Some users might find it less engaging.
- Red: Completely linear, offering no tactile feedback, just like the black switches.
- Winner: Tie
Clickiness
- Cherry Mx Black: These switches are silent, without any audible click.
- Red: These switches are also silent, without any audible click.
- Winner: Tie
Typing Speed
- Cherry Mx Black: The heavier actuation force can slow down typing for some users, particularly those used to lighter switches.
- Red: The lighter actuation force and linear feel contribute to faster typing speeds, making them ideal for those who prioritize speed.
- Winner: red
Gaming Performance
- Cherry Mx Black: The heavier resistance can be beneficial for preventing accidental key presses, which is a pro. However, rapid repeated presses might be more tiring.
- Red: The lighter force and faster actuation make them excellent for gaming, allowing for quick reactions and repeated key presses, which is a pro.
- Winner: red
Noise Level
- Cherry Mx Black: Generally quieter than tactile or clicky switches, which is a pro.
- Red: Also quiet, which is a pro.
- Winner: Tie
Overall Feel
- Cherry Mx Black: Provides a firm and consistent feel. The heavier resistance can feel more robust.
- Red: Offers a lighter and smoother feel, making them easier to press and potentially less fatiguing for extended use.
- Winner: red
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Gaming (Raw Speed) | Red |
| Typing (Heavy Preference) | Black |
| Overall Feel (Subjective) | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Red |
What They Have in Common
- Linear Feel: Both Cherry MX Black and Red switches provide a smooth, linear feel, meaning there is no tactile bump during the keypress. This results in a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke.
- Actuation Distance: Both switches actuate at 2mm, allowing for fast response times. This is beneficial for both gaming and typing.
- Total Travel Distance: Both switches share a total travel distance of 4mm, offering a similar bottom-out feel.
- Durability: Both Cherry MX Black and Red switches are rated for 50 million keystrokes, ensuring a long lifespan.
- Pcb Mount: Both switches are designed for PCB mounting, which is the standard for most modern mechanical keyboards.
- No Tactile Feedback: Both switches lack a tactile bump, making them suitable for those who prefer a smooth, consistent feel.
Cherry MX Black vs Red Buying Guide
Typing Experience
The typing experience with Cherry MX Black switches is often described as linear and smooth, providing a consistent feel throughout the keystroke. Their heavier actuation force, typically around 60g, can lead to fewer accidental keystrokes, making them suitable for gamers who prefer precision. However, this heavier force can also lead to fatigue during extended typing sessions, requiring more effort to depress the keys. The absence of a tactile bump means you won’t feel a distinct feedback when the key actuates.
Gaming Performance
Cherry MX Black switches are favored by many gamers due to their linear nature, allowing for rapid and consistent key presses. The higher actuation force can prevent accidental key presses, which is crucial in fast-paced games. The absence of a tactile bump means that the keys reset quickly, permitting faster reaction times. However, the same heavier actuation force can cause fatigue during long gaming sessions, and the lack of feedback may require practice to master timing.
Sound Profile
The sound profile of Cherry MX Black switches is generally quieter compared to tactile or clicky switches. The linear design minimizes the audible noise, especially if the keyboard is equipped with dampeners or is built with sound-dampening materials. The sound is a ‘thud’ upon bottoming out, which can be modified using o-rings or different keycaps. This characteristic makes them a good choice for environments where noise levels need to be minimized.
Durability and Lifespan
Cherry MX Black switches are renowned for their durability and long lifespan. They are rated for millions of keystrokes, ensuring that they can withstand heavy use over an extended period. The robust build and quality materials contribute to their longevity, making them a reliable choice for both gamers and typists. Proper maintenance, such as cleaning and preventing liquid spills, will further extend their lifespan and performance.
Keycap Compatibility
Cherry MX Black switches, like all Cherry MX switches, are compatible with a wide range of keycaps. This allows for extensive customization, enabling users to personalize their keyboards with different keycap materials, profiles, and designs. Keycaps can drastically alter the feel and sound of the switches. Users can explore various keycap options to optimize the typing or gaming experience, tailoring the keyboard to their preferences.
Cost and Availability
Cherry MX Black switches, though widely available, can sometimes be more expensive than other switch types, especially when considering the overall cost of a keyboard. The price can vary depending on the manufacturer and the features offered by the keyboard. Availability is generally good, but certain specialized keyboards or custom builds might have limited options. It’s crucial to compare prices and features to find the best value for your needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy cherry mx black If…
- You prefer a heavier feel and more resistance when typing or gaming.
- You want a switch that minimizes accidental key presses.
- You enjoy a slightly more robust typing experience.
- You prioritize a switch that offers a high level of control.
Buy red If…
- You prefer a lighter touch and faster actuation.
- You want a switch that is easy to press, ideal for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming.
- You prefer a smoother and less fatiguing typing or gaming experience.
- You want a switch that requires less force to actuate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Cherry MX Black and Red switches?
The main difference lies in the actuation force and feel. Cherry MX Black switches have a heavier actuation force (around 60g) and are linear, offering a smooth keystroke. Cherry MX Red switches have a lighter actuation force (around 45g) and are also linear, making them easier to press. The choice depends on personal preference and typing style.
Which switch is better for gaming, Black or Red?
Both are excellent for gaming. Black switches provide a bit more resistance, potentially reducing accidental presses, and a smooth feel. Red switches are lighter, allowing for faster response times and are favored by many gamers. The best choice is subjective and depends on individual preference. Experimentation is key to finding the best fit.
Are Cherry MX Black switches good for typing?
Cherry MX Black switches can be good for typing, though the heavier actuation force might cause fatigue during extended typing sessions. Some users appreciate the resistance, which can prevent accidental keystrokes. However, users who prefer a lighter touch might find them less comfortable than other switch types, such as Red or Brown switches.
How does the sound profile of Black switches compare to Red switches?
Both Black and Red switches share a similar sound profile since they are both linear switches. They typically produce a “thud” sound when bottoming out. The sound volume can be affected by the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used. Black switches may sometimes sound slightly quieter due to their heavier weight.
What keycaps are compatible with Cherry MX Black and Red switches?
Both Cherry MX Black and Red switches use the standard Cherry MX stem, making them compatible with a wide variety of keycaps. You can use keycaps made from various materials like PBT and ABS, and in different profiles like Cherry, OEM, and SA. This compatibility allows for extensive customization of the keyboard’s look and feel.
Do Black switches require more force to actuate than Red switches?
Yes, Cherry MX Black switches require more force to actuate than Red switches. Black switches typically have an actuation force of around 60g, while Red switches have an actuation force of about 45g. This difference in force can significantly affect the typing and gaming experience, with Red switches requiring less effort to press.
Are there any downsides to using Cherry MX Black switches?
The primary downsides to Cherry MX Black switches include the heavier actuation force, which can lead to fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The lack of tactile feedback may also require some adjustment for users accustomed to tactile or clicky switches. The heavier force may also result in slower typing speeds for some people.
Final Verdict
Cherry MX Black switches offer a smooth, linear experience suitable for gaming and typing, with a heavier actuation force to prevent accidental presses. They are durable and compatible with various keycaps. However, the heavier force may lead to fatigue over time. Their linear feel and quieter operation make them a solid option for those who prefer a consistent keypress.
Winner: Cherry MX Black