Cherry MX Black vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Cherry MX Black and the Cherry MX Orange, both of which are linear switches known for their smooth keystrokes. The Cherry MX Black is celebrated for its characteristic low-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying, textured feel that many typists and gamers appreciate. With enhancements from Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches deliver a refined typing experience, albeit at a stiffer actuation force that demands a bit more effort. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches are a modern revival of a classic model, redesigned to meet the increasing demand for high-performance typing. While specific details about their texture and sound are less emphasized, the Orange switch is likely to cater to users seeking a balanced option that combines smoothness with a distinctive tactile feel, making them an excellent choice for both gaming and typing without the noise of a clicky switch. Both switches have their unique strengths, making the decision largely depend on individual preferences for actuation force and auditory feedback; 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and Cherry MX Orange switches both utilize nylon in their top and bottom housings, providing a consistent foundation for performance and acoustics. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound due to its relatively softer composition, and this shared material means that both switches are likely to offer a similar sound profile when typing. The deeper and fuller sound that users experience with these switches is a direct result of the nylon's effective dampening of vibrations, creating a duller and rounder acoustic signature. Consequently, users can expect a nearly identical auditory experience when typing on either switch, as the nylon housing promotes sound absorption effectively in both cases.
While the two switches share the same housing materials, differences may emerge from their internal designs and functions. The Cherry MX Black is known for its linear actuation, providing a smooth experience without tactile feedback, whereas the Cherry MX Orange features a tactile bump for feedback during key presses. This mechanical distinction means that although both switches have the same nylon components that contribute to sound absorption, the typing experience can feel markedly different. The impact of the nylon on the sound is consistent across both switches, but the tactile feedback and behavior during actuation will vary, resulting in unique overall performances even amidst similar materials.
In summary, the materials used in the Cherry MX Black and MX Orange switches are identical, with both employing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This similarity ensures that they produce comparable acoustic experiences, thanks to nylon's sound-dampening properties. However, the differences in their switch mechanisms lead to diverse typing experiences. While users might enjoy a similar auditory ambiance, the tactile sensations and actuation feel will distinguish these two switches, allowing for personal preference based on the desired typing experience rather than the material properties alone.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black and Cherry MX Orange linear switches differ in actuation force, with the Black requiring a heavier 60 grams, while the Orange requires a lighter 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. This difference in actuation force can affect user experience significantly; those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the MX Orange. In contrast, the MX Black offers a more substantial push feel, catering to users who enjoy a heavier switch for a tactile typing experience. However, the MX Orange lacks a specified bottom out force, making it impossible to compare this characteristic directly with the Black's bottom out force of 80 grams. Consequently, while the MX Black is the heavier option overall, the missing information on the Orange's bottom out force leaves a gap in the comparison.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm, meaning the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed is the same. As a result, users can expect similar tactile responses and actuation depths when using either switch, offering a consistent experience regardless of the choice between them. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they provide comparable feedback during typing and gaming, allowing for a seamless transition between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Cherry MX Black and Cherry MX Orange switches, the MX Black stands out with its low-pitched tone, characterized by a deep, bass-heavy sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing. This mellow tone can be particularly appealing for users who prefer a quieter yet robust sound from their keyboard. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the MX Orange switch remain unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in terms of audible feedback. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound generated by either switch can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switches exhibit a distinctly textured and stiff response. The textured nature of these switches introduces a measure of friction during actuation, which some users appreciate for the tactile feedback it provides. The stiffness of the MX Black requires users to exert more force for actuation and bottoming out, offering a solid, deliberate typing experience that can enhance typing accuracy. Information regarding the feel of the MX Orange switches is currently unavailable, making it challenging to compare their tactile qualities directly. However, given the subjective nature of switch preferences, some users may find they enjoy a similar level of force or feedback with either switch.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black offers a rich auditory experience alongside a textured and stiff feel, making it a preferred choice for users who value deep sound and tactile feedback in their typing experience. While the sound profile of the MX Orange remains undefined, its reissue suggests it may carry some desirable qualities, possibly aimed at satisfying the demand for a similarly robust typing experience. Users seeking a specific auditory and tactile experience may gravitate towards the MX Black for its established reputation, while those interested in the MX Orange may want to explore it further once more information becomes available.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Black and Cherry MX Orange switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you appreciate a heavier switch and enjoy a more tactile, textured experience, the MX Black is likely the better choice for you. Its 80-gram actuation force may provide the extra resistance you need for precise input during long typing sessions or gaming, especially if you prefer a lower-pitched sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory element to your keystrokes. However, if you lean towards a smoother experience with less resistance and are looking for an option that perhaps mirrors the sought-after characteristics of switches from the past, the MX Orange could be more favorable. While details on its weight and specific auditory characteristics are not as pronounced, it’s reissued with enhancements that cater to modern preferences, potentially offering that nostalgic feel. Thus, consider what aligns more closely with your personal typing style—elevated resistance and a textured feel with the MX Black, or a refined, smoother experience with the MX Orange—to ensure you pick the switch that enhances your overall typing experience.
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