Cherry MX Black vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are often compared and contrasted are the Cherry MX Black and the Kailh Sage. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that has been further perfected by Cherry with their new Hyperglide tooling, providing a classic textured smoothness. Typing on these switches offers a familiar deep sound profile, making them a preferred choice for many. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinct typing experience with its heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. This switch is often described as invigorating, sharp, and crunchy. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch is the perfect fit for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Kailh Sage Clicky

$4.00 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and the Kailh Sage differ in their housing materials, with the MX Black featuring a nylon top housing and the Sage utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. While both materials have their own unique properties, they ultimately result in distinct sound profiles. The MX Black's nylon top housing absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer plastic, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Sage's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the Sage's translucent nature makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the MX Black and the Sage utilize nylon material. Nylon is known for elicitng a deeper and fuller sound profile, and this holds true for both switches. As nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, it creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. Therefore, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar sound experience.

When comparing the overall impact of the top and bottom housings on the switches, it is important to note that their different materials divide the qualities between the two components. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing the key. Thus, while the Cherry MX Black and the Kailh Sage have variations in their housing materials, the overall typing experience may still yield similar results in terms of sound profiles, albeit with slight differences in tone and resonance.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that there are some differences in weight. The MX Black has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing. Additionally, its bottom out force of 80 grams adds to the substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage's actuation force is unavailable, meaning we do not have specific data on it. However, its bottom out force is measured at 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.

Considering the importance of weight, individuals who prefer lighter switches may find the MX Black to be a bit heavy for their preferences. Those who prefer a more effortless typing experience or plan to use the keyboard for extended periods of time may opt for the Sage due to its unstated actuation force. However, it is worth mentioning that if the actuation forces of both switches are similar or unknown, users can expect comparable results in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and the Kailh Sage comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, the MX Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The MX Black falls into the more traditional range, offering a depth that many users are familiar with. On the other hand, the Sage provides a slightly shallower experience, which is becoming increasingly popular in the gaming community for its quicker response times. If you value a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the Sage would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the MX Black with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black switches offer a low-pitched sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches provide a distinct clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound. This sound can be likened to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their textured nature, which means that they have noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feel can vary depending on personal preference, as some users may prefer a subtle texture while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switches are also considered stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. This means that when typing on these switches, you will need to apply more force to press the keys.

In contrast, the Kailh Sage switches provide an invigorating typing experience. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation that many users find enjoyable. The Sage switches also have a sharp tactile bump, which means that the feedback intensity is high and the tactile bump is strong and crisp. This bump can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress.

Overall, the Cherry MX Black switches and the Kailh Sage switches offer different subjective qualities. The MX Black switches provide a low-pitched sound profile, a textured feel with noticeable friction, and a stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer a clicky sound profile with a crunchy sound, an invigorating and immersive typing feel with pronounced feedback, and a sharp tactile bump. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing preferences when choosing between these switches, as both can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on individual preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy and smooth linear switch with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black would be a great choice. With its 80 gram bottom out force and Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a classic textured smoothness and a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, the Kailh Sage switch would be perfect for you. These switches offer a refreshing sharp clickiness and an invigorating feel with their pronounced feedback and snappy reaction. Ultimately, the decision between the MX Black and the Sage switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a low-pitched and textured switch or a crunchy and sharp switch, both options provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

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