Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Cherry MX Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly impact your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are designed for enthusiasts seeking a tactile experience, featuring a medium-strength bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches are favored for their linear action, delivering a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, combined with a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile that many users find appealing. While the Purple switches excel in tactile feedback, making them ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced response, the Red switches cater to gamers and those who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

Cherry MX Red Linear

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Cherry MX Purple RGB and Cherry MX Red switches feature identical housing materials, with both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This results in a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in both switches means that they share similar acoustic properties; the softer nature of nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, contributing to a rounded and muted keystroke noise. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience while typing, as both switches leverage the acoustic benefits provided by the nylon material.

Both the MX Purple RGB and MX Red not only share nylon construction but also exhibit the same overall structural sound characteristics due to their material consistency. As such, when typing on either switch, the qualities of the nylon housing manifest predominantly in the feel and sound produced during both key presses and releases. Since the bottom housing influences the perception of the bottom-out sound, users will likely notice a satisfying thock as they press down, while the top housing will shape the key release noise. Given these parallels in design, users should anticipate a similar level of satisfaction in sound and tactile feedback regardless of the switch chosen.

While the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Cherry MX Red switches are constructed from the same material, the differences can lie in the switch design and actuation mechanisms that might affect performance. These unique traits can modulate the tactile feedback and responsiveness of each switch, which is of particular relevance to gamers and typists who prefer distinct key characteristics. However, when isolating the sound profile and material impact, both switches leverage the advantageous properties of their nylon housings to deliver a remarkably akin typing experience. Thus, for users prioritizing sound quality and feel, the choice between these switches may ultimately come down to personal preference rather than material differences.

Weight

Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch feature an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users of both switches could experience comparable actuation during typing or gaming activities. However, the bottom out force for both switches remains unknown, so we cannot draw a direct comparison in that regard. Given that their actuation forces are equal, users looking for a lighter touch will find both switches suitable, as they offer a moderate pressure that allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. The MX Purple may provide a slightly different typing experience due to its tactile design, which some users might prefer for feedback, while the MX Red offers a smooth, linear feel favored by gamers seeking swift key presses. Nevertheless, without information on the bottom out forces, we cannot assess their performance when fully depressed.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar actuation depth when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This equal travel distance allows for a consistent key feel and responsiveness, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback without altering the physical movement required to register a keypress. Consequently, whether one chooses the tactile MX Purple or the linear MX Red, the travel distance remains constant at 4 mm, ensuring a uniform experience in terms of key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches produce a refined auditory experience that complements their tactile feedback, though specific descriptors for their sound profile aren't provided. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switches are characterized by their thocky and low-pitched qualities. When pressed, they emit a deep and rich sound, often described as a satisfying thud or soft knock, which many users find reassuring during typing. This audible feedback is typically more pronounced in different setups, influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, but the Red switches are generally appreciated for their robust and mellow tone.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a medium-strength tactile bump that enhances the typing experience, although specific details about their feel aren't mentioned. On the other hand, Cherry MX Red switches are noted for their textured feel, implying some noticeable friction as the key is pressed. This texture can be polarizing; while some users enjoy the feedback and connection to the typing process that it offers, others may prefer a smoother typing experience devoid of any scratchiness.

In conclusion, while the MX Purple RGB switches provide a medium strength bump with a refined tactile experience, their sound profile remains unspecified. Meanwhile, the MX Red switches are recognized for their deep, thocky sound and textured feel that lends itself to a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and understanding the nuances can guide newcomers to choose the right switch that aligns with their typing style and sound preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a discernible bump and prefer keys that provide feedback without being overly loud, the MX Purple RGB could be the perfect fit for you; it's especially great for typing and gaming situations where you appreciate feeling your key presses. On the other hand, if you seek smoother, faster key presses without any tactile resistance, particularly for gaming and rapid typing where speed is essential, then the Cherry MX Red switch will serve you well. Its deeper sound profile adds a satisfying auditory element to each keystroke, creating a more immersive experience. Therefore, consider what type of feedback and sound you desire in your keyboard, and you'll be able to choose the switch that best enhances your overall typing and gaming experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more