Cherry MX Red vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are key differences to consider. The MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that is both responsive and satisfyingly auditory. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red maintains the same heftier feel as the MX Red but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the MX Red provides a traditional typing experience with a more pronounced sound, the MX Silent Red offers the same experience but with a significantly quieter sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches are very similar, as both switches use nylon for both the top and bottom housing. This means that in terms of sound profile and feel, both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer properties of nylon. The absorption of sound in nylon also creates a duller and rounder sound, leading to a more satisfying typing experience overall. In terms of housing materials, users can expect a comparable performance from both the MX Red and the MX Silent Red switches.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their respective silent features. The Cherry MX Silent Red switch is specifically designed to reduce noise during typing, with the bottom housing featuring additional dampening mechanisms to minimize the sound of bottoming out keys. This means that while both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their nylon housing materials, the MX Silent Red will provide a quieter operation overall. This makes the MX Silent Red a more suitable choice for those seeking a silent typing experience without compromising on the quality of the switch itself.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Silent Red switches share the same nylon housing material, which results in a comparable sound profile and typing experience. The main point of differentiation between the two switches is the silent feature of the MX Silent Red, which offers a quieter typing experience through additional dampening mechanisms in the bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prioritizes a silent typing experience over other factors such as sound profile and overall switch performance.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, both switches offer a light typing experience, which is great for long typing sessions or gaming. Some users may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel, but in this case, both switches provide a similar level of force. Overall, whether you choose the Cherry MX Red or Cherry MX Silent Red switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The MX Red is the longer of the two options, offering a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a slightly shallower travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time or a more abrupt key press. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the MX Red will provide a bit more resistance due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red 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 Red for $4.00.
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Red switch is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted sound profile while still maintaining that thocky and low-pitched feel. The Silent Red switch is designed to minimize noise, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing environment without compromising on the satisfying feedback of a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, whether you choose the MX Red or the MX Silent Red, both switches deliver a high-quality sound experience that can be further influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Silent Red switches are described as textured, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feel can be a matter of personal preference, with some users enjoying the added resistance for a more tactile typing experience, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free keystroke. Regardless of this slight difference in feel, both switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience that caters to a variety of typing styles.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Silent Red switches each have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the MX Red offers a classic thocky and low-pitched sound with a slightly textured feel, the MX Silent Red provides a more muted sound profile with the same textured key feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound level and key texture, but rest assured that both switches will provide a high-quality and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, you should choose the MX Red if you prefer a classic Cherry switch with a satisfying auditory depth and slightly heftier feel. The MX Red is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the MX Silent Red if you desire the same robust typing experience but in a quieter package. The MX Silent Red maintains the heftier feel of the MX Red but operates silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or silence in your typing experience.
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