Cherry MX Black vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and Everglide Tourmaline Blue stand out as two popular options. The MX Black from Cherry is best known for its perfected smoothness and deep sound profile when typing. It offers a textured feel and a stiff resistance, making it ideal for those who prefer a tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switches are characterized by a deep and thocky sound profile, immersing users in a satisfying typing experience. With a bouncy feel and easy-to-press keys, they strike a balance for a wide range of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$4.00 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches differ significantly, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, allows for a clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is excellent for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon top housing of the MX Black does not offer the same visual advantage.

Although the housing materials of the switches vary, the impact of these differences is largely determined by the user's keystrokes. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, so users will experience the specific sound profile of either nylon or polycarbonate depending on the switch they choose. On the other hand, the top housing material's impact becomes more noticeable when releasing a key. The distinctive sound created when letting go of a key is influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, understanding the housing materials used in a switch can help users determine the type of sound and overall experience they desire when typing or gaming.

In summary, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches have significant differences that directly affect their sound profiles. The MX Black's nylon housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to the relatively stiffer plastic. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for those planning to utilize RGB lighting. Although the top and bottom housings impact different aspects of the typing experience, understanding these materials allows users to choose a switch that satisfies their individual sound preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are some notable differences. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, slightly heavier than the Tourmaline Blue's 59 grams. However, both switches have a similar actuation force, so users can expect a comparable experience in terms of triggering keystrokes.

In terms of bottom out force, the MX Black is heavier with a force of 80 grams, while the Tourmaline Blue has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it lighter. Those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may find the MX Black to be more suitable for their preferences. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter switch, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue, may lean towards the Tourmaline Blue.

Considering the weight of a switch is crucial as it affects the typing experience. Some individuals may opt for lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, enabling them to type for longer periods comfortably. However, others may prefer the heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the MX Black and Tourmaline Blue will depend on the user's personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm journey from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. Their travel distances are equal, ensuring a consistent tactile experience for users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their low-pitched profile. This means that they have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The Tourmaline Blues strike a balance with their standard spring weight, making them enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switches are described as textured and stiff. The textured aspect refers to noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users. However, others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Blacks require a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches are described as buttery, easy-to-press, and mild. The buttery aspect implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They also offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. Overall, these switches enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. The Tourmaline Blues fall into a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to most users.

Considering the available information, the Cherry MX Black switches have a deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches have a deep and thocky sound profile, a buttery, easy-to-press feel, and being mild in characteristic. While the MX Blacks have a unique textured smoothness, the Tourmaline Blues provide a satisfying and bouncy feel with each keystroke. Both switches offer a different experience in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, the MX Blacks would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound, a buttery and easy-to-press feel, and a mild characteristic, the Tourmaline Blues would be a great option. It is important to choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a heavier switch with a deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. With its 80-gram bottom out force and classic textured smoothness, typing on these switches will provide a satisfying and familiar experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a thocky sound profile and a buttery, easy-to-press feel, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is worth considering. Its 67-gram bottom out force and lengthened single-stage spring offer a bouncy and enjoyable typing sensation. Additionally, the Tourmaline Blues strike a balance with their standard spring weight, making them accessible to a wide range of users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more