Cherry MX Brown vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options to choose from, each offering unique features and experiences. Two popular options are the Cherry MX Brown and the Kailh Sage switches. The MX Brown switches are known for their subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience, with a heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. The MX Brown switches can be categorized as textured, bassy, and low-pitched, while the Sage switches are invigorating, sharp, and crunchy. Depending on your preferences, choosing between these switches could greatly impact your typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown and Kailh Sage switches utilize different materials for their top housing. The MX Brown has a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Comparatively, the Sage features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clear housing of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting. While the two materials have different sound qualities, they both provide unique options for switch users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the MX Brown and Sage switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. Therefore, in terms of sound, the bottom housing material in both switches will offer similar results, providing a satisfying typing experience.
When considering the overall qualities of the housing materials, it is important to note that if a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housing, the characteristics each material brings to the switch will be split. The bottom housing will have a more substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more noticeable influence on the sound produced when letting go of a key. Therefore, depending on personal preference and typing style, individuals can choose between the MX Brown with its nylon top and bottom housing or the Kailh Sage with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences. The MX Brown has a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams, meaning it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Sage is unknown, making it difficult to determine whether it is lighter or heavier than the MX Brown.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the MX Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that when the key is fully pressed, it requires a bit more force compared to its actuation force. On the other hand, the Sage possesses a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
In terms of weight, individuals who prefer lighter switches might find the MX Brown more suitable as it allows for longer typing sessions and is ideal for bringing to work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the heavier bottom out force of the Sage may be the preferred choice.
In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Brown and Kailh Sage switches differ, with the MX Brown being the lighter option and the Sage offering a heavier typing experience. The exact actuation force of the Sage is unknown, but the bottom out force is notably heavier at 70 grams compared to the MX Brown's 55 grams. Both switches can cater to different preferences and deliver similar results depending on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see that the MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches have a noticeable travel distance, the MX Brown offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Sage. The 4.0mm travel distance of the MX Brown is considered more traditional, providing a satisfying depth when typing. On the other hand, the Sage's 3.6mm travel distance is a bit shallower, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prioritizes a deeper, more traditional feel or a shorter, more responsive keystroke. Whichever option you choose, you can expect a notable travel distance that adds tactile feedback to your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a more subtle and mellow audio experience. They have a bassy sound profile, characterized by lower frequencies that resemble the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches provide a distinct clicky typing experience. The sound they produce is best described as crunchy, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound produced by both switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches have a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility. They are often described as textured or scratchy switches, offering noticeable friction when pressed. Some users appreciate this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches provide an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive sensation while typing. The tactile bump of the Sage switches is strong and crisp, providing a distinctive feeling with every keypress.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They offer a relatively light typing experience with a mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches provide a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and refreshing sharp clickiness. They offer an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. If you enjoy a more subtle and mellow typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a distinct clicky feel and a heavier typing experience, the Kailh Sage switches would be a great option. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide their own unique qualities and can offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter and more subtle typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, then the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is the way to go. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. The MX Brown switches also have a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. In terms of feel, they have a textured surface that provides noticeable friction when pressed.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced and clicky typing experience, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be a better choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a weightier typing feel. The Sage switches are known for their refreshingly sharp clickiness and crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. They offer a snappy and reactive feel, with a pronounced tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
Ultimately, the decision between the Cherry MX Brown and Kailh Sage switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you value subtlety, light tactility, and a bassy sound, the MX Brown is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more invigorating, clicky typing experience with a heavier feel and sharp tactile feedback, the Sage switches would be a better fit. Consider your typing preferences and the characteristics of each switch to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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