Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Cherry MX Speed Silver present two distinct options catering to different preferences and needs. The Cherry MX Purple RGB, known for its refined tactile experience, features a short, medium-strength bump that enriches typing feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists and enthusiasts who appreciate a tactile sensation while they type. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a linear action that promotes swift key presses, allowing for instant triggers and minimal resistance—ideal for gamers who rely on rapid response times. While the Purple RGB fosters a satisfying tactile feel that many find enjoyable for everyday use, the Speed Silver prioritizes speed and efficiency, perfect for competitive gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which is a combination that provides them with a rich, resonant sound profile. This shared material choice translates to a similar tactile experience, as nylon's softer properties enable it to absorb sound and deliver a deeper and fuller auditory feedback when typing. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound compared to those made with harder plastics. The consistency in material across both switches means that users can expect a comparable sound experience, enhancing the overall acoustic satisfaction during use.
While both switches feature nylon in their housings, they may differ in other attributes like actuation force or switch response, which can affect user experience beyond the acoustic dimension. However, the commonality in using nylon ensures that the housing materials complement each other in terms of sound absorption. Since the bottom housing, with its more significant impact on bottom-out sound and feel, is made of the same material as the one found in the top housing, users will likely find that the auditory quality remains consistent throughout both switches.
In summary, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, through their identical housing materials, promise users a consistent sound profile, making them appealing options for different typing preferences. Even though subtle differences in actuation might distinguish the feel of one switch from the other, the shared nylon composition keeps the core auditory experience remarkably similar. Therefore, users can enjoy the benefits of a muted and resonant typing environment, regardless of which switch they choose, thanks to the inherent qualities of nylon as the common thread in their construction.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch both feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users will experience a consistent keystroke triggering across both switches, which is ideal for those who prefer a similar typing experience regardless of the switch type. However, both switches lack available data on their bottom out forces, making it impossible to compare this aspect directly. Since their actuation forces are equal, users can expect a similar feel when initiating keystrokes, but the overall typing experience may differ due to the tactile feedback of the Purple RGB switch compared to the smoother linear action of the Speed Silver switch. In terms of weight perception, both switches have the same actuation force, suggesting that neither is distinctly lighter or heavier than the other when it comes to the force needed to actuate a key. Overall, the choice between these two switches may ultimately come down to personal preference for tactile feedback versus a linear operation rather than the weight of the switches themselves.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch differ notably in their travel distances. The MX Purple RGB has a travel distance of 4 mm, providing a deeper keystroke that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback and a sense of assurance when actuating a key. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, which caters to gamers seeking quicker response times in competitive environments. This shorter distance can enhance performance for those who prioritize speed, although some may find it feels too abrupt compared to the deeper engagement of the Purple RGB switch. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the MX Speed Silver is the better choice, while the MX Purple RGB is ideal for users who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch remains unspecified, which leaves an unknown element that potential users might want to explore further. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a distinctly thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich "thud," complemented by a low-pitched tone that provides a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. This combination makes the Speed Silver ideal for users who enjoy a bass-heavy response while typing or gaming, though it's essential to remember that the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is not described, resulting in another area of uncertainty for users seeking specific tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, which introduces a noticeable friction during key presses. This texture can lead to a more engaging experience for users who enjoy a bit of resistance, contrasting with those who might prefer a smoother and friction-free operation. For gamers, this tactile experience could enhance the precision of rapid key presses, contributing positively to gameplay.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB's sound and feel aspects remain undefined, the Cherry MX Speed Silver excels with its thocky, low-pitched sound and textured tactile feedback. If you're drawn to a switch with a satisfying auditory experience and an engaging tactile response, the Speed Silver presents a compelling option. Those considering the MX Purple RGB should seek additional information to assess its auditory and tactile capabilities, ensuring it aligns with their preferences in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your primary use case and personal preference. If you're looking for a balanced, tactile experience that enhances your typing comfort while still providing a responsive feel, the MX Purple RGB is a great option. This switch is well-suited for typists who appreciate the distinct short bump and want a switch that adds a bit of character to their keyboard without being overly noisy. On the other hand, if you're a competitive gamer who demands the fastest possible response times and prioritizes speed, the MX Speed Silver is the clear choice. Its linear action ensures a smooth keystroke, allowing you to actuate keys with minimal resistance, which can be crucial in high-pressure gaming scenarios where every millisecond matters. Additionally, the thocky sound profile of the Speed Silver adds a satisfying acoustic element, appealing to those who enjoy a richer auditory feedback. Consider your primary use—typing versus gaming—and choose the switch that best aligns with your needs and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
