If you are looking for a switch for typing then the Cherry MX Blacks might be too heavy as a first mechanical switch.

If you are used to a membrane keyboard this switch will feel very different. But the main thing to be aware of here is how heavy these switches are. The blacks are suited towards gaming and typing. In fact they are the stiffest switch out of the four standard Cherry MX mechanical switches. They have an actuation force of 60 cN which is considered quite high. The Cherry MX black switches were actually one of the very first Cherry switches, introduced way back in 1984 but have since been updated. If you are still unsure of which to choose then please leave a comment below and I will be happy to help you. This can be a huge help towards narrowing down your selection. They are relatively cheap and although this only offers one of each switch to try it will at least help you get a feel for them. To get an initial feel of each of the most common switches I recommend picking up a switch tester like this one. This is difficult as there is no easy way of trying a keyboard before buying. Whether you are an avid gamer, typist or anything in between I will try to answer all your questions.Ī quick disclaimer that just like trying an office chair or a pair of shoes, choosing a Cherry MX switch often involves trying them. The goal of this guide is to help you pick the switch that is best for you. What is the difference between a Cherry MX brown vs Cherry MX red? Which switch is better for gaming or typing? If you were like me back when I first started buying mechanical keyboards you probably feel overwhelmed with the amount of choice you have. There are so many variations of this switch nowadays that it is daunting for anyone trying to decide which to choose on their new mechanical keyboard. However, they don't have the lifespan of the Cherry switches (50-60 million keystrokes versus 100 million for Cherry).The most popular mechanical switch in the world – the Cherry MX mechanical switch. The Kailh Speed Silvers actually have a shorter actuation distance (1.1mm) and only need 40 grams of pressure to press, making them slightly faster than their Cherry MX alternatives. These are pretty much an exact copy of the Cherry MX Speed Silvers at a much more palatable price. If this is a problem, Cherry MX Reds are a great alternative. The downside to Speed Silvers is that they're relatively hard to source and can be more expensive. In addition, these linear keys are smooth and highly consistent, with absolutely no bump. They have an actuation distance of only 1.2mm and require only 45 grams of pressure to actuate. Cherry MX Speed SilverĬherry MX Speed Silver keys have been specially designed for gamers. Keep in mind that if you're going to use your keyboard for typing as well, speed switches may increase your error rate because they're so easy to press. They also require slightly less weight to actuate at 45 grams, making them great for avoiding strain. Cherry MX Silent RedĪ final alternative is the Cherry MX Silent Reds which differ from the Blacks in that they're even more silent. The Silent Blacks require 60 grams to actuate and are a linear switch, rather than tactile, meaning that you will receive little tactile feedback when pressing down the key. The Cherry MX Silent Blacks are a fair bit quieter than the Boba U4s but are more expensive to purchase (sometimes three times the price for a keyset). They are also quiet enough that you will have no problem using these in an office space and come at a great price point. The U4s are generally regarded as having an excellent tactile response that makes typing very satisfying. They come in two forms, one set requiring 62 grams for actuation and one requiring 68 grams. The Gazzew Boba U4 is a relatively recent addition to the mechanical key market and has certainly made a splash. If you have no problem with noisiness, Cherry MX Blues are a great choice. They are also far louder and produce a more tactile bump when compared to the Cherry MX Browns. On the other hand, Cherry MX Blues have the same travel and actuation distance but require 60 grams of pressure to press down. This can help to reduce errors, reduce strain, and increase typing speed. Many typists like this as it lets them know they've pressed the key without needing too much pressure. In addition, they provide tactile feedback in the form of a small, light bump in the centre of the keystroke.

Cherry MX Browns are tactile keys, while Cherry MX Blues are clicky, but both are great choices for typists.Ĭherry MX Browns have a total travel distance of 4.0mm and actuate at 2.0mm, requiring only 45 grams of pressure to press. The color differences refer to how clicky and heavy the keys are. Cherry MX keys are some of the most well-known and popular mechanical keys on the market.

Most clicky switches