TKC Kiwi vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Cherry MX Red offer users distinct typing experiences. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a linear switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering responsiveness and a robust typing experience. While the Kiwi is lightly factory lubed for a smooth and effortless typing experience out of the box, the MX Red is known for its 'thocky' sound profile. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Cherry MX Red both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound signature of the switches. While the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housing, providing a bright and resonant sound when typing, the MX Red uses nylon for its housing material. The nylon housing of the MX Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Kiwi, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. This difference in material leads to a distinct typing experience for users of each switch.
Despite their differences, both the TKC Kiwi and Cherry MX Red housing materials impact the overall sound signature of the switches. The UHWMPE top and bottom housing of the Kiwi contribute to a bright and resonant sound when typing, while the nylon housing of the MX Red provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the impact of the material on the sound when pressing a key down versus when releasing it may differ between the two switches. This distinction in sound characteristics adds variety to the typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and Cherry MX Red housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The UHWMPE housing of the Kiwi offers a brighter and more resonant sound, while the nylon housing of the MX Red provides a deeper and fuller sound. Whether one prefers a sharper, more vibrant sound or a softer, rounder sound while typing, both switches offer unique acoustic experiences that cater to different preferences. Despite their differences in housing materials, users can expect high-quality performance and durability from both the TKC Kiwi and Cherry MX Red switches.
Weight
The actuation force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is 43 grams, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the MX Red slightly heavier to trigger. When it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi requires 67 grams, whereas the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, with the Kiwi being slightly lighter. However, the Cherry MX Red's unknown bottom out force may result in a different typing feel compared to the Kiwi. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the TKC Kiwi would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red, despite the lack of information regarding its bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance implies that the user experience in terms of key press feel and actuation point will be comparable between the two switches. Overall, whether you choose the Kiwi or the MX Red, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 TKC Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Kiwi delivering a smooth and immersive typing experience and the MX Red providing a robust and responsive feel. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a tactile experience with two stages, medium tactility, and a smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. While the Kiwi switch delivers a refined and accented tactile response, the MX Red switch offers a textured sensation that may cater to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. Each switch provides a distinct typing experience, with the Kiwi focusing on a subtle yet prominent tactile bump and the MX Red emphasizing a slightly heftier and textured feel.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile accompanied by a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel, enhancing the typing experience with a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. On the other hand, the MX Red switch delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, combining responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a diverse range of qualities that can elevate your typing experience, ensuring that you'll achieve similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a smooth typing experience, the Kiwi switch might be the best choice for you. The Kiwi switch also offers a low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deep and satisfying sound profile, the MX Red switch could be the ideal option. Keep in mind that the MX Red switch does not have a specific bottom out force, so if you prefer a lighter touch, this switch may not be the best fit for you. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing habits.
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