Gateron Mars vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Gateron Mars and the Cherry MX Red, both of which are linear switches designed to provide smooth keystrokes. The Gateron Mars switches stand out with their innovative POK stem and a housing crafted from a premium blend of Nylon and POM, aiming to deliver a unique typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches are a classic choice known for their slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience characterized by a satisfying auditory depth. While the Mars switch excels in innovation and responsive consistency, the MX Red is favored for its reliable tactile feedback and well-established reputation among gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, personal preference will guide your decision, but let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and Cherry MX Red switches, one finds a notable similarity in the composition of the top housing. Both switches utilize nylon, a classic material favored in the mechanical keyboard community. This choice contributes to a distinctive acoustic experience, as nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a typist's experience characterized by a duller and rounder auditory feedback. As a result, users of both switches can expect a similar sound signature when typing, with muted tones that enable a satisfying and pleasant keystroke experience.
However, a key difference arises in the composition of the bottom housing. The Gateron Mars employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, celebrated for its ability to generate a unique and pleasing sound that is distinctly deeper and more muted compared to other materials. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red features a nylon bottom housing, which, while still contributing to a strong sound profile, does not offer the same degree of distinctiveness as that of the Gateron Mars. The choice of a POM bottom housing in the Mars enhances the overall sound production, allowing it to stand out as a more nuanced option for users seeking a particular auditory experience.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings further illustrates how these materials contribute to the overall performance of the switches. In a switch like the Gateron Mars, the POM bottom housing emphasizes the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a unique tactile quality that differs from what the Cherry MX Red can offer. Conversely, the nylon top housing for both switches dominates the sound characteristics when releasing the key, ensuring that both designs deliver a cohesive auditory experience upon keypress. Despite the variance in materials, users can expect a satisfying blend of acoustic properties from the combined effect of the top and bottom housings, leading to performance results that highlight the unique offerings of each switch.
Weight
Both the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will experience a similar resistance when triggering a keystroke with either switch. This consistent actuation force is advantageous for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it facilitates longer typing sessions and extended gaming without significant fatigue. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to compare how much pressure is needed when the switch is fully pressed down. Since the actuation force is equal, users can expect comparable performance in terms of the effort required to activate the keys. Given that both switches have the same actuation force, neither can be definitively classified as lighter or heavier based on this metric alone, but both are on the lighter side relative to other switches with higher actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we find that they differ in their measurements. The Gateron Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Red, which measures 4 mm. This means that users who favor quicker response times may prefer the Mars switch, as its reduced travel distance can lead to a more responsive feel during gaming or fast-paced typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red, with its longer travel distance, may appeal more to those who appreciate a deeper actuation, providing a fuller tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Mars being the shorter option and the MX Red offering a more traditional depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Mars switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in this area. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched auditory characteristics, which deliver a deep and satisfying sound when a key is pressed. The MX Red's sound can be described as akin to a soft thud or a gentle knock, providing a robust auditory feedback that many users find appealing. However, it's essential to consider that sound is influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, which can dramatically alter the overall auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mars switch lacks specified descriptions, making it challenging to compare its tactile sensations directly with the Cherry MX Red. The MX Red, however, is characterized by a somewhat textured feel, presenting a subtle sensation of friction when the keys are pressed. Some typists appreciate this texture for the feedback it provides, while others may prefer a smoother, gliding experience. This element of tactile feedback can significantly impact typing comfort and efficiency, depending on a user’s personal preference.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mars switch has innovative design elements and potentially offers a unique typing experience, its sound and feel cannot be compared directly to the Cherry MX Red due to a lack of detailed information. The MX Red boasts a rich auditory quality and a moderately textured feel, making it a reliable choice for many users seeking a satisfying typing experience. If you're looking for a well-rounded switch, you can expect the MX Red to provide a consistent and enjoyable performance, while the Gateron Mars may offer unknown but potentially distinct characteristics that could be explored further.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between Gateron Mars linear switches and Cherry MX Red linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences and what you value most in your typing experience. If you’re looking for something innovative and unique, the Gateron Mars switches, with their specialized POK stem and nylon-POM housing, might be the ideal option for you. These switches are designed to offer a fresh feel that can elevate your typing with potentially enhanced smoothness, though specific tactile feedback details are not provided. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic, tried-and-true option, the Cherry MX Red switches are well-known for their robust and slightly heftier feel, delivering that satisfying auditory depth with a thocky sound profile. Their textured feel, while enjoyed by many, might not suit everyone, particularly if you desire a sleeker, friction-free experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize a traditional and reliable switch for versatile use, go with the Cherry MX Red. However, if you're feeling adventurous and want to experiment with newer technology, give the Gateron Mars a try. Your keyboard experience is personal; thus, aligning it with your typing style and sound preferences will lead to the best choice for you.
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