Gateron Glory Red vs. Cherry MX Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and Cherry MX Black offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches stand out for their lighter actuation force, providing a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance that enhances overall typing enjoyment. This makes them an excellent choice for users who prioritize a quick and effortless typing feel, particularly favored by gamers and those who frequently type. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their sturdiness and a deeper sound profile, thanks to Cherry's refined Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a textured and stiff experience, appealing to users who prefer more resistance and tactile feedback in their keystrokes, making them ideal for those who might engage in heavy typing or preference for a more controlled keystroke. While both options provide unique advantages in terms of typing experience, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the Cherry MX Black switches, it becomes evident that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice establishes a strong baseline for performance characteristics between the two switches. Nylon is known for its superior sound dampening properties, leading to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller than that produced by switches crafted from harder plastics. As a result, both the Glory Red and MX Black switches deliver a notable reduction in noise, ensuring a quieter typing experience which can be particularly beneficial in shared or professional environments.

Despite their similar housing materials, subtle differences in the design and intended user experience can impact how these switches feel and perform. The Gateron Glory Red is designed for a lighter actuation force with a linear feel, while the Cherry MX Black is heavier and also linear but with a more pronounced resistance. Although both switches feature nylon housings that absorb sound effectively, the tactile feedback and actuation characteristics could provide a distinctly different typing experience. Users may find that the weight and feel of each switch significantly affect how they perceive sound and feedback during use, even if they share the same material in their construction.

Finally, the interaction between the top and bottom housings and the user's keystroke can create differences in sound and experience, even with identical materials. Since both switches use nylon for both the top and bottom housing, they fundamentally share sound-absorbing qualities, but the overall experience can diverge based on the mechanical design and action of each switch. With the Glory Red's reduced actuation force, users may experience quicker key presses, resulting in a different sound profile during actuation compared to the sturdier feel of the MX Black. Ultimately, although the housing materials are the same, the combination of mechanical design and user interaction informs the unique qualities of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch with the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation forces. The Glory Red switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Cherry MX Black switch requires a heavier 60 grams to register a keystroke. This discrepancy makes the Glory Red a more suitable option for those who prefer a lightweight feel, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Gateron Glory Red does not provide a specific metric, whereas the Cherry MX Black has a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating that it is considerably heavier when pressed to the bottom. Consequently, while the actuation of the Glory Red is easier and more forgiving, the Cherry MX Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its greater bottom out resistance. For users seeking a lighter switch with potentially less strain during prolonged use, the Glory Red is the preferable choice, whereas those desiring a firmer feel should consider the MX Black.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that they differ. The Gateron Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option than the Cherry MX Black, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Glory Red offers a quicker actuation, catering to users who favor faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black provides a more traditional and deeper typing experience, appealing to those who appreciate a heftier feel in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference—whether one prioritizes the responsiveness of a shorter travel distance or the substantial feedback of a longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch produces a sound profile that aligns with the smooth keystroke it offers, contributing to an overall pleasant typing experience. While specific descriptors for the Glory Red's sound are absent, it is generally understood that linear switches, like the Glory Red, are quieter than their tactile or clicky counterparts. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This deep sound profile is appreciated by users who prefer a quieter operation while typing, and it creates a conducive atmosphere for both work and gaming.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Red offers a smooth and enjoyable keystroke, making it ideal for users who prioritize a fluid typing experience without any tactile feedback or resistance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch provides a textured feel, which some users may find scratchy due to the noticeable friction during key presses. Furthermore, the MX Black's stiffness means that it requires a higher force to actuate or bottom out, which can be seen as a drawback for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. This difference in feel will significantly impact typing habits, with the Glory Red facilitating a more effortless experience and the MX Black demanding more intentional effort.

Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Gateron Glory Red leaning towards a smoother and lighter typing experience, while the Cherry MX Black presents a textured and stiffer alternative. Users seeking a quiet, smooth operation may gravitate towards the Glory Red, while those favoring a deeper sound and tactile feedback might prefer the MX Black. Regardless of choice, both switches will provide a satisfying typing environment tailored to the user’s individual preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between Gateron Glory Red and Cherry MX Black linear switches hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter feel with a smooth keystroke that enhances your typing experience, the Glory Red is an excellent option, especially for those who type for extended periods and prioritize comfort. Conversely, if you enjoy a more substantial typing force and the tactile feedback of a textured switch, the Cherry MX Black might be ideal for you; it's particularly suitable for gamers or those who prefer a firmer touch when typing. The low-pitched sound profile of the MX Black also adds a satisfying depth for users who appreciate auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what feels best for your hands and what type of sound and feedback you enjoy during your typing sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more