Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Cherry MX Red, both linear switches. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Keygeek Raw offers a neutral and subtle typing experience, the Cherry MX Red delivers a thocky and low-pitched feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Cherry MX Red switches both use nylon in their top housing components, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share this characteristic in their similar top housing materials, the Keygeek Raw sets itself apart with its unique UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, not found in the Cherry MX Red.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw once again showcases its exclusivity with the UMPE & Si blend, while the MX Red sticks to the classic nylon material. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, and the Keygeek Raw's unique blend offers a different typing experience compared to the MX Red. Despite both switches utilizing nylon in their bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw's blend may provide a different tactile feel and sound profile due to the additional materials mixed in.
While the housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Cherry MX Red switches have similarities in their use of nylon for the top housing, their differences lie in the unique blends used by the Keygeek Raw for its bottom housing. These disparities may result in varying typing experiences in terms of sound and tactile feedback between the switches. However, if looking for a similar sound profile and feel, both switches may provide satisfying results due to the qualities nylon brings to the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we see some distinct differences. The Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, which is considered medium, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the Keygeek Raw in this aspect, but its bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Red may be the preferred choice, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Keygeek Raw may be more suitable due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Keygeek Raw requires less distance to travel from the top to the bottom compared to the Cherry MX Red. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may opt for the Cherry MX Red with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits, but the Keygeek Raw would provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Red.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound that offers a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the type of sound profile that the user prefers.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Keygeek Raw and Cherry MX Red switches offer a textured typing experience, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. However, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a mild and subtle feel, offering a gentle resistance and a light typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red switch also offers a textured feel without further descriptors on its specific typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a gentle and light typing feel or a slightly heftier typing experience.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and Cherry MX Red switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, subtle feel, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured typing experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics. Ultimately, trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with individual preferences would be the ideal way to determine the most suitable option.
Conclusion
In sum, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique material blend with a creamy yet lightweight feel, the Keygeek Raw linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. These switches come unlubricated, providing a slightly textured feel that is ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic Cherry switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the MX Red linear switch may be more up your alley. With a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth, the MX Red is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the MX Red will depend on your preference for feel, sound, and typing experience.
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