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Cherry MX Red vs Cherry MX Blue

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a more tactile typing experience and are known for their durability. Cherry MX switches are among the most popular mechanical switches on the market, with the Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Blue being two of the most commonly used. In this article, we’ll compare the Cherry MX Red vs Cherry MX Blue switches, discussing their similarities, differences, and which one is better suited for your needs.

Cherry MX Red Switches

Cherry MX Red switches are linear switches, which means they have a consistent feel throughout their travel distance. They require a light touch to actuate and do not have a tactile bump. The actuation force is 45g, and the travel distance is 2mm, with a total travel distance of 4mm. Cherry MX Red switches are popular among gamers and typists who prefer a fast and smooth typing experience.

Advantages of Cherry MX Red Switches:

Fast and Smooth Typing Experience: Cherry MX Red switches are designed to be responsive and require very little force to actuate, making them ideal for fast and smooth typing.

Quiet: Cherry MX Red switches are relatively quiet compared to other mechanical switches, which is a bonus if you work in a shared office space or need to type at night without disturbing others.

Gaming Performance: Cherry MX Red switches are widely used in gaming keyboards because they offer a fast and responsive experience.

Disadvantages of Cherry MX Red Switches:

No Tactile Bump: Cherry MX Red switches do not have a tactile bump, which means you may not feel when the switch has actuated.

Noisy Bottoming Out: Since Cherry MX Red switches are linear, they do not provide any feedback when they bottom out, which can be noisy and distracting.

Cherry MX Blue Switches

Cherry MX Blue switches are tactile and clicky switches, which means they have a tactile bump and an audible click when they actuate. The actuation force is 50g, and the travel distance is 2mm, with a total travel distance of 4mm. Cherry MX Blue switches are popular among typists who prefer a tactile and responsive typing experience.

Advantages of Cherry MX Blue Switches:

Tactile and Clicky: Cherry MX Blue switches provide a tactile bump and an audible click when they actuate, providing satisfying feedback to typists.

Ideal for Typing: Cherry MX Blue switches are designed for typing and offer a tactile and responsive typing experience.

Audible Feedback: The audible click of Cherry MX Blue switches provides an additional level of feedback, which can be useful in noisy environments.

Disadvantages of Cherry MX Blue Switches:

Noisy: Cherry MX Blue switches are among the noisiest mechanical switches, which may be a concern if you work in a shared office space or need to type at night.

Not Ideal for Gaming: Cherry MX Blue switches are not recommended for gaming because they require a higher actuation force than Cherry MX Red switches.

Which One is Better for You?

Ultimately, the decision between Cherry MX Red vs Cherry MX Blue switches comes down to personal preference and your intended use. If you’re a gamer, Cherry MX Red switches may be a better option because they require less force to actuate and offer a smoother experience. If you’re a typist, Cherry MX Blue switches may be a better option because they provide a tactile bump and an audible click, which can be satisfying and improve typing accuracy. If you’re unsure, you may want to try both switches before making a final decision.

Conclusion

Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Blue switches are both popular mechanical switches, each with their advantages and disadvantages. Cherry MX Red switches offer a fast and smooth typing experience, while Cherry MX Blue switches provide a tactile bump and an audible click. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision between Cherry MX Red vs Cherry MX Blue switches.

FAQ

What are Cherry MX Red switches?
Cherry MX Red switches are linear mechanical switches that have a smooth and consistent feel throughout their travel distance. They do not have a tactile bump and require a light touch to actuate.

What are Cherry MX Blue switches?
Cherry MX Blue switches are tactile and clicky mechanical switches that provide a tactile bump and an audible click when they actuate. They are popular among typists who prefer a responsive and satisfying typing experience.

Which switch is better for gaming, Cherry MX Red or Cherry MX Blue?
Cherry MX Red switches are generally better for gaming because they require less force to actuate and offer a smoother experience. However, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and gaming style.

Which switch is better for typing, Cherry MX Red or Cherry MX Blue?
Cherry MX Blue switches are better for typing because they provide a tactile bump and an audible click, which can be satisfying and improve typing accuracy.

Are Cherry MX Blue switches noisier than Cherry MX Red switches?
Yes, Cherry MX Blue switches are among the noisiest mechanical switches because of the audible click they produce when they actuate. In contrast, Cherry MX Red switches are relatively quiet.

Can I try both switches before making a purchase?
Yes, it’s recommended that you try both switches before making a final decision. You can find keyboards with Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Blue switches at electronics stores or online retailers.

Can I replace the switches on my mechanical keyboard?
It depends on the keyboard. Some keyboards allow you to replace the switches, while others do not. It’s important to research your keyboard model and consult with a professional if you’re unsure.