Are Cherry MX Switches Good?, Mechanical keyboards continue to surge in popularity, and the heart of their unique experience lies in the switches beneath the keycaps. Cherry MX switches, the undisputed pioneer in mechanical keyboard switches, offer unmatched reliability with their 50-100 million keystroke lifespan. But with so many colors, types, and competitors to consider, choosing the right switch can be overwhelming. If you’re new to the world of mechanical keyboards, my beginner’s guide will get you up to speed on all the essentials. Let’s explore Cherry MX switches, their variations, and why they remain the industry benchmark.
If you’re specifically interested in Cherry MX switches, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with terms like ‘switch MX‘. These keywords help you find more information specifically about Cherry MX variants and their characteristics
Key Takeaways
- Cherry MX switches are the pioneers of mechanical keyboard switches and offer superb reliability, consistency, and a wide range of options.
- Switches impact everything from the sound, the feel, and the responsiveness of your keyboard.
- Consider your intended use (typing vs. gaming), sound preference, and actuation force when selecting your switches.
- While Cherry MX is the industry standard, don’t be afraid to explore alternatives like Gateron or Kailh as they may provide the feel you want at a lower price point.
- The best switch is ultimately the one that feels and sounds right to you! Experimentation is key.
Table of Contents
What is a Cherry MX Switch?
Cherry MX switches are the small, self-contained mechanisms under each key. They determine the feel of a mechanical keyboard, including the following factors:
- Type: Tactile, linear, or clicky.
- Actuation Force: The weight needed to activate the switch, measured in grams or centinewtons. If you want to learn more about actuation force and why it matters, check out this article
- Total Travel: The total travel distance of the keystroke.
- Sound: From clicky switches to quiet linear options.
Understanding Cherry MX Switches
Cherry MX switches use a color-coded system to indicate their characteristics. To get a more detailed breakdown of switches and their characteristics, check out my in-depth guide. Here’s a breakdown of the core colors and their best uses:
- Cherry MX Brown: Versatile and Balanced
- Tactile switch with a subtle bump for feedback.
- Quieter than clicky switches.
- Excellent choice for both typing and gaming. A good option if you’re unsure where to start. To find even more switch options optimized for gaming, be sure to check out my comprehensive guide.
- Cherry MX Blue: The Classic Clicky
- Offers the iconic ‘click’ and pronounced tactile feedback.
- Beloved by typists for the satisfying sound and feel.
- Can be distracting in shared spaces due to the noise level.
- Cherry MX Red: Smooth and Fast for Gaming
- Linear switch with no tactile bump.
- Consistent keystroke with low actuation force. Favored by gamers for fast-paced reactions. Cherry MX Blues, on the other hand, offer a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. For a head-to-head comparison of red vs. blue switches, check out my dedicated article
- Favored by gamers for fast-paced reactions, especially with competitive titles.
- Cherry MX Black: Heavier and Linear
- Linear like reds, but with higher actuation force.
- Helps prevent accidental keystrokes for typists.
- May cause hand fatigue during long gaming sessions.
- Cherry MX Speed Silver: Ultra-Fast Actuation
- Linear switch with the shortest actuation point and travel distance
- Designed for lightning-quick reactions in competitive gaming.
- May be too sensitive for everyday typing.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Other Cherry MX Switches
The core colors are just the beginning. Cherry MX has additional options:
- Cherry MX Clear: Stiffer tactile switch, heavier than browns with a more defined bump.
- Cherry MX Green: Clicky switch with an even higher actuation force than blues. The loudest and most tactile in the lineup.
- Cherry MX Silent Red A dampened linear switch for a much quieter version of the red’s smooth feel.
If finding the smoothest switch possible is a priority, check out my roundup of the top contenders.
Are Cherry MX Switches Good?
Best Cherry MX switches earned their reputation as the industry leader for good reason. Here are some of their key advantages:
- Reliability: Cherry MX switches are designed and tested to last for millions of keystrokes (often 50-100 million). This translates to years of use before encountering any issues. If you’re curious about how long mechanical keyboards typically last, I’ve explored the topic in detail in this article.
- Consistency: Their meticulous manufacturing ensures that each switch of the same type feels incredibly similar. This means no odd ‘sticky’ keys or wildly different actuation forces across your keyboard.
- Variety: The Cherry MX lineup offers a switch for nearly every preference. From tactile browns to fast linears to extra-clicky options, Cherry caters to typists, gamers, and everyone in between.
The Competition and Price
It’s important to acknowledge that Cherry MX isn’t the only player in town. Brands like Gateron and Kailh have made great strides in mechanical keyboard switches. These competitors often offer similar varieties of switches (tactile, linear, clicky) at a lower price point. While they might have subtle differences in feel, they are absolutely worth exploring.
The Bottom Line: Cherry MX switches are a great option, known for their durability and vast selection. However, if you’re budget-conscious or seeking a specific, nuanced feel, investigating alternatives can yield excellent results. If you’re open to exploring alternatives, check out my guide on the best switch colors for gaming – it covers Cherry MX and other popular brands.
Factors for Choosing the Best Cherry MX Switch
- Typing vs. Gaming: Typists often favor tactile switches (brown, blue) or heavier linear switches (black) for defined feedback, while gamers frequently prefer light linear switches (red, Speed Silver) for rapid response.
- Sound: Consider the noise level based on your environment. Clicky switches are loudest, linear switches are quieter, and tactile switches fall in between.
- Actuation Force: Heavier switches can prevent typos, while lighter ones prioritize speed.
- Personal Preference: There’s no single “best switch.” Experiment to find the feel and sound most comfortable for you!
The Competition: Gateron, Kailh, and Alternatives
While Cherry MX remains the gold standard, they’re not the only player. Brands like Gateron, Kailh, and Outemu offer similar switch types, often at lower prices. These alternatives can feel slightly different despite following the same linear, tactile, clicky classifications.
Are Cherry MX Switches Still Worth It?
Cherry MX switches are still a good option and boast remarkable consistency and longevity. However, it’s definitely worth considering alternatives as they might offer the feel you prefer at a more attractive price point.
Additional Considerations
- Keycaps: The material and shape of your keycaps also subtly impact the typing experience and sound of your mechanical keyboard. For a deep dive into switch housings, materials, and their impact, check out my dedicated article.
- Switch Testers: If possible, try a switch tester to experiment before buying a full keyboard
- Customization: The mechanical keyboard community is huge on customization. Explore hot-swappable keyboards, lubrication, and other modifications!
Final Remarks
The search for the ideal mechanical keyboard switch is an exciting journey. Cherry MX switches, with their unparalleled legacy of reliability and diverse range, are an excellent starting point. They provide a solid foundation to understand the nuances of tactile, linear, and clicky switches. Whether you crave the classic feel of Cherry MX browns, the lightning-fast response of Speed Silvers, or the satisfying click of blues, there’s a Cherry MX switch to explore.
However, don’t let the iconic name limit your exploration. The mechanical keyboard world has expanded significantly, with brands like Gateron, Kailh, and others offering compelling alternatives that might deliver the exact feel and sound you desire, sometimes at a more agreeable price.
Always prioritize personal preference. Experiment with switch testers, visit stores if possible, and don’t be afraid to venture outside the comfort zone. The world of mechanical switches is vast and full of surprises. Discovering your ideal switch transforms the typing and gaming experience, making every keystroke a satisfying and personalized event.
Author Review
I’ve been a mechanical keyboard enthusiast for years, and Cherry MX switches were my introduction to this wonderful world. Their reliability is outstanding, and I appreciate how the color system makes it easy to understand the characteristics of each switch. However, as I’ve tried other brands, I’ve found switches that I enjoy even more, and often at a better price point. My advice? Start with Cherry MX to get a baseline but never hesitate to explore all the incredible options available in the mechanical keyboard market!
