Top 22 Cherry MX Switches: The Best Mechanical Keyboards

Cherry MX switches have revolutionized mechanical keyboard design, offering unparalleled tactile feedback and durability. Our comparison evaluates the most popular Cherry MX switches, from the linear responsiveness of the MX Red to the actuation click of the MX Brown, helping you choose the perfect typing companion.

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Reviews

Cherry MX LP 2.1 Wireless Gaming Keyboard

This compact gaming keyboard packs impressive performance into a practical 68-key layout, featuring CHERRY MX-LP switches rated for 100 million keystrokes. The wireless model connects via three modes, including advanced CHERRY Advanced Wireless Technology, while vibrant red, white, and blue RGB lighting adds a stylish touch. Its low-profile design combines comfort with responsiveness, though newcomers to low-profile switches may need adjustment.

35pc Linear Mechanical Switch Kit

These linear mechanical switches offer a quiet 2mm actuation with a light 45g release pressure, perfect for users who value silent keyboard operation. With a reliable Cherry MX compatible stem design and a practical 3-pin connector, they're a precise upgrade for any mechanical keyboard. The quiet operation and premium build quality have earned them perfect scores from reviewers who appreciate their subtle click feedback during typing.

Keychron Z47 Cherry MX Switch Set

If you're familiar with Cherry MX switches, you know they're the gold standard for mechanical keyboards. These particular switches offer a balanced 45-gram actuation force and a 3.4mm travel distance, with pre-travel of 1.2mm - perfect for both precise typing and competitive gaming. The included RGB backlighting adds a nice visual touch to your setup.

Ranked Cherry MX RGB Brown Switches

The Cherry MX brown switches bring a tactile typing experience to your gaming keyboard, with a 4mm travel distance that helps you register your keystrokes cleanly. At just 55cN of actuation force, they're responsive enough for competitive gaming while keeping your hands comfortable during long sessions. The switches' durable construction, rated for over 50 million keystrokes, combines with self-cleaning contacts to maintain reliable performance even when your workspace gets a bit messy.

Cherry MX RGB Red Switches

The Cherry MX RGB switches bring vibrant backlighting to the keyboard scene with four distinct mechanical options. From the responsive linear red switches that register at just 45 cN, to the clicky blue switches that pop at 60 cN, you get a taste of the brand's renowned engineering. The hot-swappable design makes it a breeze to switch up your switches or add custom keycaps, while the SMD LED compatibility lets you really light up your setup.

Keychron Z46 Cherry MX Switch Set

These Cherry MX Brown switches bring the gold standard in mechanical keyboard actuation to your setup, with their reliable 50 million actuation rating and that signature tactile feedback you love. The RGB customization lets you match your setup to your personality, while the hot-swappable design means you can switch things up without lifting a finger. Whether you're coding late into the night or just typing out your next epic novel, these switches keep up with your every keystroke.

Cherry DMX1A-G1NA-1A Brown Mechanical Keyboard Switches

Cherry Corporation, established in the 1950s, has become a global leader in keyboard switch manufacturing, building on their legacy of creating reliable, high-performance switches for both automotive and computer applications. Their DMX1A-G1NA-1A switch kit features 23 Cherry MX RGB Brown switches, bringing their expertise in advanced switch technology to enthusiasts who demand premium keyboard performance.

Redragon A113 Cherry MX Red Switches

The Redragon A113 switches offer a lighter actuation force with robust bounce feedback, delivering a smoother typing experience than their MX Red counterparts while maintaining the linear consistency players prefer. Each switch is built to last 80 million clicks, with dust-resistant construction that keeps your keyboard performing reliably over time. The ambidextrous design and straightforward installation make these switches a practical upgrade for anyone looking to improve their keyboard's responsiveness and durability.

10 Piece Cherry MX ADMXSV Mechanical Key Switches

These Cherry MX switches deliver snappy responsiveness with their light push and shallow actuation point, making them a top choice for gamers who need precise, tactile feedback. The silver axis variant has garnered particular praise for its speed and performance. While these are key switches rather than a complete keyboard, their straightforward design ensures reliable operation without extra frills.

Cherry MX 10.0N RGB Mechanical Keyboard

Here's a detailed look at the Cherry G8A-25010LVBUS-2 mechanical keyboard: Its ultra-thin 22mm frame houses premium German-made low-profile switches, combining responsiveness with remarkable compactness. The sturdy metal construction ensures lasting performance, while the RGB lighting system lets you customize your typing experience. With over 100 million actuations per key guaranteed, this keyboard delivers exceptional durability in a surprisingly sleek package.

Cherry KC 200 Wired Keyboard

From its German-engineered MX2A switches to its responsive 108-key layout, this wired keyboard delivers premium Cherry reliability with thoughtful features like built-in status LEDs and media controls. The anodized silver-white design adds a touch of class to any workspace, while the durable build quality ensures it'll handle billions of keystrokes with ease. Whether you're coding, creating, or competing, this keyboard combines performance and comfort in a practical package that nails the balance between feature-rich and interference-free typing.

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear Switches

These German-engineered plate-mounted switches offer pro-level responsiveness with their 1.2mm pre-travel and 3.4mm total travel, while the self-cleaning contacts ensure reliable performance through over 50 million keystrokes. The 45cN actuation force strikes a perfect balance for competitive gaming, and the 3-pin design makes them incredibly versatile for both hot-swappable gaming keyboards and custom DIY builds.

Cherry MX 3.0 S Wireless RGB Red Switches

This wireless gaming keyboard brings serious performance to the table with its responsive Cherry MX Red switches and ultra-low 1ms latency. The premium aluminum construction and customizable RGB lighting add a touch of class to your setup, while the intelligent charging system keeps you playing whether you're wired or wireless.

Cherry MX 8.2 TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard

With its responsive CHERRY MX Red switches and wireless freedom, this slim aluminum keyboard packs pro gaming performance into a practical Tenkeyless design. The RGB backlight adds a customizable touch to your setup, while the built-in battery and compact size keep clutter at bay during marathon sessions.

SparkFun Cherry MX Switch Breakout Boards

The Cherry MX Switch Breakout from SparkFun turns these renowned mechanical keyboard switches into a versatile prototyping solution. Each switch gets connected to breadboard-friendly headers, with an optional LED included for backlighting. The clever row-column design lets you build large keyboards while keeping wire count down.

Cherry MX Key Switches

These Cherry MX Brown switches are built for serious typing and gaming, offering that telltale click you've come to love while delivering the responsiveness pros demand. The plate-mounted design makes them a breeze to install in your custom build, and with over 50 million keystrokes in their lifespan, they're made to last. Whether you're mapping out your next strategy or just firing up your favorite game, these switches are engineered to perform flawlessly every time.

Cherry MX Red Switch Gaming Keyboard

The G80-3874LYAUS-2 combines premium CHERRY MX Red switches with an aluminum frame that won't flex or slide on your desk. Its RGB backlighting lets you choose from 16 million colors, though some users find the brightness a bit overwhelming. Built to last with 100 million keystroke durability, this gaming keyboard from Cherry Americas delivers the performance you'd expect from a mechanical masterpiece.

Cherry DMX1A-XC1X-2A Experience Box Switch Kit

This carefully curated collection of 10 Cherry MX switches presents a balanced mix of linear, tactile, and clicky options, allowing users to explore the full spectrum of mechanical keyboard experiences. The hot-swappable design and RGB lighting add versatility to your setup, while the sturdy paper packaging minimizes environmental impact during transit.

Cherry MX RGB Blue Switches

Cherry MX RGB switches bring a reliable clicky feedback to your typing, with each blue switch requiring just 60 cN to activate. The hot-swappable design makes them a snap to install in your custom keyboard build, while the SMD LED compatibility lets you light up your setup in style. German-engineered for lasting performance, these switches bring a touch of premium craftsmanship to your mechanical keyboard.

Cherry DMX1A-F1NA-1A MX Switch Kit

A longtime leader in switch technology, Cherry Corporation brings its expertise to keyboard enthusiasts with this MX switch kit featuring RGB green switches. Each switch contains 23 actuations, delivering durable performance for demanding users. The kit showcases Cherry's commitment to advanced, high-quality switching solutions that have defined the industry since the 1950s.

Cherry MX RGB Switches: Brown Edition

Cherry MX RGB Brown switches offer a balanced typing experience with their 55cN activation force and 4mm total travel distance, providing just the right amount of tactile feedback without the clickiness of the blue switches. These German-engineered switches features a 2mm pretravel, allowing for precise keystrokes while the hot-swappable design and compatibility with Cherry MX keycap sets make them a versatile addition to any mechanical keyboard build. The switches are mounted on SMD LED-friendly plates, enabling customization options for both RGB enthusiasts and those who prefer single-color lighting setups.

Cherry MX Blue Keyswitches 10 Pack

These plate-mounted switches offer 50 million cycles of reliable performance with their 50g actuation force and 4mm travel distance, providing both tactile feedback and an audible click that helps users maintain consistent typing speed and accuracy. The ambidextrous design makes them suitable for left- or right-handed users, while the option to add a single LED allows for customization without affecting the switch's primary functions. Made in Germany, these switches deliver professional-grade typing experience in a discontinued-by-manufacturer product line.

Buyer's Guide

Cherry MX switches are among the most popular mechanical keyboard switches, known for their durability and precise tactile feedback. Understanding their key characteristics will help you choose the right switches for your new keyboard or switch replacement needs.

Switch Types and Actuation Forces

Cherry MX switches come in several actuation forces, from 45g (red) to 60g (blue), with variations in between. Red switches offer linear actuation, making them ideal for typing. Blue switches provide both linear actuation and audible clicks, suitable for both typing and gaming. Brown switches balance actuation force and trigger distance, making them popular for both touch typing and gaming.

Keycap Compatibility and Layout

Cherry MX switches require specific keycap heights and layouts. Standard switches need keycaps with a 2U profile and 2.7mm kerf. Some switches, like the RGB variant, may need 3U keycaps. Consider your current keycaps and layout when selecting switches to ensure compatibility and optimal typing ergonomics.

Life Expectancy and Durability

Each Cherry MX switch is rated for 50 million actuations, making them incredibly durable for everyday use. When calculating replacement needs, consider whether you type professionally or spend long hours at the keyboard. Regular users may need replacements less frequently than occasional users.

Ergonomic Considerations

MX switches vary in actuation distance, which affects typing ergonomics. Shorter actuation distances (like 1.6mm) require faster activation, while longer distances (like 2.25mm) offer more tactile feedback. Consider your typing speed and precision needs when selecting switch actuation distance for optimal comfort during extended use.

FAQ

What are Cherry MX switches?

Cherry MX switches are mechanical keyboard switches renowned for their precision, durability, and tactical feedback. They use a premium tactile and audible response mechanism that enthusiasts and professionals appreciate for their reliable performance and longevity.

Developed by German company Cherry GmbH, these switches have become the gold standard in mechanical keyboard design, offering multiple actuation points (4mm, 5mm, and 2mm) to suit different typing and gaming preferences.

What are the different types of Cherry MX switches?

Cherry MX switches come in several variants, each with distinct tactile and actuation characteristics. The main types include: - Speed switches (MX Speed, MX Speed Silver): Shortest actuation distance at 2mm, offering faster response times. - Blue switches (MX Blue): Medium actuation distance at 4mm, providing tactile and audible feedback. - Brown switches (MX Brown): Medium actuation distance at 4mm, offering a lighter touch and reduced actuation force. - Red switches (MX Red): Longest actuation distance at 5mm, providing a smooth actuation with minimal tactile feedback.

These switches are available in various actuation forces: 45g for lighter typing, 50g for balanced use, and 60g for heavier typing. Each type is engineered to enhance specific typing or gaming styles, making them highly customizable for individual preferences.

What are the durability specifications of Cherry MX switches?

Cherry MX switches are engineered for extreme longevity, capable of handling up to 50 million actuations. This means users can expect their switches to maintain their mechanical integrity and performance over a period of several decades with daily use.

The switches feature a durable gold-plated contact system that resists oxidation and corrosion, ensuring consistent performance throughout their operational life. This reliability makes them a popular choice for both professional use and competitive gaming environments.

What are the key differences between Cherry MX switches and other brands?

While other brands offer competitive products, Cherry MX switches stand out through their superior build quality and consistent performance. The switches undergo rigorous testing to meet their advertised specifications, and the German craftsmanship is evident in their precision engineering.

Cherry MX switches also benefit from extensive community support and compatibility across numerous keyboard manufacturers. The standardized form factor ensures that compatible switches will work interchangeably across different models, maintaining a consistent user experience.

What maintenance requirements do Cherry MX switches have?

Cherry MX switches require minimal maintenance when used with compatible housings and stabilizers. Regular cleaning with compressed air and specialized switch cleaners helps remove debris and maintains optimal performance. The switches resist mechanical wear naturally due to their robust design.

For best results, users should avoid disassembling the switches if they are functioning properly. Disassembly can introduce contaminants and may void warranties. Instead, focus on maintaining the housing and stabilization components for long-term reliability.

What applications are Cherry MX switches suitable for?

Cherry MX switches excel in high-stress environments where durability and reliability are paramount. They are commonly used in professional settings, competitive gaming, and custom keyboard builds where consistent performance is critical.

The adjustable actuation points and available switch variants make them suitable for various use cases, from everyday typing to precision tasks that require minimal actuation force. Their versatility makes them adaptable to different user needs and industries.