Comparing Cherry MX Switches: Red vs Blue vs Brown
Mechanical keyboards have gained popularity in recent years due to their durability, tactile feedback, and customization options. A key component of mechanical keyboards are the switches that determine how keys respond when pressed. Cherry MX switches, manufactured by ZF Electronics, are among the most popular switches used for mechanical keyboards.
However, with various types of Cherry MX switches available, it can be difficult to determine which one is best suited for individual needs. This article aims to compare three common types of Cherry MX switches: Red, Blue, and Brown. Each switch has a unique design that affects the feel and sound of typing.
By examining the specifications and characteristics of each switch, readers will gain a better understanding of which switch may be best suited for their individual preferences and typing style.
Overview Of Cherry Mx Switches
Cherry MX switches are among the most popular mechanical switches used in keyboards. These switches are known for their tactile feedback, durability, and distinct audible click sound.
Cherry MX switches come in different types, including red, blue, and brown.
The Cherry MX Red switch is a linear switch that requires a force of 45 grams to actuate. It has no tactile bump or audible click sound, making it ideal for gamers who need quick and quiet keystrokes.
The Cherry MX Blue switch, on the other hand, is a tactile switch that requires 50 grams of force to actuate. It has a noticeable tactile bump and produces an audible clicking sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for typists who want to feel the key press and hear the sound of each keystroke.
Finally, the Cherry MX Brown switch is a hybrid between red and blue switches. It provides a subtle tactile feedback without producing an audible click sound. This type of switch is ideal for users who need both typing accuracy and gaming speed without any distractions from noise.
Cherry Mx Red Switches
As mentioned in the previous section, Cherry MX switches are popular among gamers and typists for their tactile feedback and durability. However, there are several types of Cherry MX switches available, each with its own characteristics.
In this section, we will focus on Cherry MX Red switches. Cherry MX Red switches are known for their linear feel, which means that they do not have a tactile bump or click when pressed. This makes them ideal for gaming as they allow for quick and smooth movements without any interruptions.
Additionally, Cherry MX Red switches have a low actuation force of 45g, which means that they require less force to press compared to other switch types. This makes them comfortable to use for extended periods of time without causing fatigue or strain on the fingers. Overall, Cherry MX Red switches are a great option for gamers who prioritize speed and precision in their gameplay.
Cherry Mx Blue Switches
Cherry MX Blue switches are a popular choice among typists and gamers due to their tactile feedback and audible click.
The actuation force required for these switches is 50g, which means that they require a bit more force than the Cherry MX Red switches. This makes them less suitable for gaming compared to the Cherry MX Red switches, but more suitable for typing.
The tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Blue switches is caused by a small bump in the middle of the key press. When this bump is reached, the user can feel a slight resistance, followed by an audible click as the key is fully pressed.
This feedback mechanism allows users to know exactly when a key has been pressed, making it easier to type accurately and quickly. However, some users may find the clicking sound of these switches annoying or disruptive in certain environments such as shared workspaces or libraries.
Cherry Mx Brown Switches
Cherry MX Brown switches are an excellent choice for those who prefer a tactile feedback while typing. The Brown switch is often described as the middle ground between the Red and Blue switches, offering a balance of both worlds.
The defining feature of the Cherry MX Brown switch is its tactile bump that can be felt as soon as the key is pressed halfway down. To elaborate further, the tactile bump in Cherry MX Brown switches provides a more satisfying typing experience than linear switches like the Cherry MX Red. This bump signifies when the actuation point has been reached, allowing users to type faster with greater accuracy.
Additionally, Cherry MX Brown switches are not as loud as Blue switches, making them an ideal option for those who work in shared spaces or environments where silence is necessary. In summary, if you are looking for a switch that provides both tactile feedback and quiet operation, then Cherry MX Brown switches may be worth considering.
Final Thoughts On Cherry Mx Switches
Having discussed the Cherry MX Brown switches, it is now time to compare them with the other popular switches in the market: Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Blue.
Cherry MX Red switches are linear switches that require a low actuation force of 45g, making them ideal for gamers who need fast response times.
On the other hand, Cherry MX Blue switches are tactile and clicky, requiring a higher actuation force of 50g. They provide an audible feedback upon activation, which some users find satisfying while others find it distracting.
In terms of durability, all three switches have a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes. However, Cherry MX Reds are slightly quieter than Blues and Browns, which can be an advantage in shared office spaces or libraries.
Ultimately, the choice between these three types of switches depends on personal preference and intended use-case.
In conclusion, choosing the right switch type is crucial for any user who spends a significant amount of time typing or gaming on their keyboard. While Cherry MX Brown switches offer a balance between tactile feedback and quiet operation, Cherry MX Red and Blue switches cater to different needs such as speed or audibility.
Understanding the differences between these switches can help users make informed decisions when investing in a new mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Cherry MX switches are one of the most popular mechanical switch types used in gaming keyboards. These switches provide tactile feedback, faster actuation, and durability compared to standard membrane keyboards.
This article aims to compare the three most commonly used Cherry MX switches: Red, Blue, and Brown.
Cherry MX Red switches are linear, offer a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, and require less force to actuate compared to other switches.
Cherry MX Blue switches have a tactile bump and a clicky sound when pressed. They require more force than Cherry MX Red switches but provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Cherry MX Brown switches fall between the two; they have a tactile bump without the clicky sound and require moderate force.
According to a survey by Keyboard University, 40% of gamers prefer Cherry MX Red switches for gaming due to their fast actuation time. Meanwhile, 32% of gamers prefer Cherry MX Blue switches for typing because of their satisfying feedback. However, 28% of gamers found that Cherry MX Brown switches were the best compromise between gaming and typing.
In conclusion, choosing the right Cherry MX switch depends on personal preference and usage. Gamers who require fast response times may opt for Cherry MX Reds while typists may prefer the tactile feedback of Cherry MX Blues or Browns. Ultimately, users should try out different switch types before making a final decision based on their own preferences.