Cherry MX Black vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, particularly between the well-known Cherry MX Black and the Akko Rosewood. The Cherry MX Black switch is celebrated for its refined design, enhanced by Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, which provides a uniquely smooth and textured typing experience. Additionally, its low-pitched, deep sound profile delivers a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch stands out for its delightful thocky sound and immediate tactile satisfaction, thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. While both are categorized as linear switches and thus offer a smooth key press without tactile bumps, they differ significantly in sound characteristics and tactile experiences. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer the sturdiness and depth of the Cherry MX Black or the thocky allure of the Akko Rosewood. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing needs.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$4.00 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and the Akko Rosewood both feature nylon as their top and bottom housing material, which brings inherent similarities in their acoustic properties. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which effectively absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound that contributes to a better typing experience, particularly for users seeking a more muted auditory feedback.

Despite both the Cherry MX Black and Akko Rosewood utilizing nylon for their housing, variations in design and construction may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. Although both switches will provide a comparable sound profile due to nylon's sonic characteristics, any additional factors such as the spring mechanism or overall switch construction could slightly alter the typing experience. For instance, if one switch has a slightly different actuation force or travel distance, this can impact the tactile feedback and sound upon bottoming out, even if the material remains consistent.

Overall, the shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings of the Cherry MX Black and Akko Rosewood ensures that users can expect a similar audio experience. The impact of nylon on sound absorption creates a cohesive aural environment when typing on either switch, amplifying the harmonious acoustic qualities both share. Whether opting for the MX Black or the Rosewood variant, users will likely appreciate the enduring and resonant sound profile that nylon delivers in both cases, while remaining mindful of the subtle experiential differences tied to their individual designs.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying user preferences. The MX Black boasts a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer ease of typing for prolonged periods, such as during work or extended gaming sessions. Consequently, users seeking a heavier switch should opt for the Cherry MX Black, while those desiring a lighter feel would benefit from the Akko Rosewood. Overall, the substantial difference in force characteristics between these two switches makes it clear that their tactile experiences cater to distinct preferences in comfort and typing style.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating they provide similar tactile feedback when pressed down. This equal travel distance means that users can expect comparable performance and responsiveness when using either switch, resulting in a similar typing or gaming experience. Since both switches share this characteristic, it can be concluded that enthusiasts looking for a linear switch with a consistent feel will find both the Cherry MX Black and Akko Rosewood to meet their needs equally.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switches produce a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone that many users find deep and satisfying. The low-profile sound characteristics make them particularly suitable for environments where you don't want to disturb others with high-pitched clicking noises. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches also provide a deep thock when pressed, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that contributes to a satisfying acoustic experience. Both switches foster a pleasant auditory environment while typing, but the Rosewood's specific thocky quality adds another layer of richness that some users may prefer, depending on personal taste.

In terms of feel, the MX Black switches are characterized by their textured surface, creating noticeable friction when pressed, which some users find desirable for tactile feedback. They are also known for their stiffness, requiring a greater amount of force to actuate—something to consider if you prefer a lighter touch. Conversely, the feel of the Akko Rosewood switches is less documented, yet they are often described as smooth due to the lubrication, implying they may not provide the same level of texture or stiffness as the MX Blacks. Depending on your preference for a firmer, more tactile experience versus a smoother action, you might find the MX Black more suitable than the Rosewood.

Overall, both Cherry MX Black and Akko Rosewood linear switches have unique sound profiles and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you favor a deeper sound with a thocky quality, the Rosewood might be ideal. However, if you appreciate the textured, firm feedback of a heavier switch, the MX Black could be the better choice. Ultimately, your selection will depend on your typing style and auditory preference, but both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their distinct qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Black linear switches and Akko Rosewood linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a heavy switch with an 80-gram bottom-out force and enjoy a more textured typing experience, the Cherry MX Black is an excellent option. Its low-pitched sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback, making it suitable for those who prefer a robust and substantial feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter switch with a 50-gram actuation force, the Akko Rosewood is likely the better choice for you. Its deep thocky sound, combined with a smoother feel due to factory lubrication, makes it ideal for long typing sessions or for those who value comfort and ease of actuation. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, whether you prefer a stiff, heavy response or a lighter, more fluid action, as well as the sound characteristics that resonate with you.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more