Cherry MX Red vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and Kailh Sage offer distinct typing experiences. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. In contrast, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the MX Red is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Sage appeals to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
N/A
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
Yes
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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Kailh Sage switches both use nylon for their top housing, but they differ in the Sage's use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, users may prefer one over the other based on their preference for sound profile and aesthetics.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Red and Kailh Sage switches share the use of nylon for this component. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the effects it has on the top housing. With the bottom housing being a key factor in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the nylon material contributes to creating a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing highlights the importance of material selection in different parts of a switch to achieve desired acoustic and tactile feedback.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Red and Kailh Sage switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing and have differences in the Sage's polycarbonate top housing, the overall typing experience and sound profiles of the switches may vary based on these material choices. The combination of different housing materials in the switches allows for a unique blend of sound characteristics that cater to different preferences among users. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience provided by the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we see some differences. The Cherry MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Sage's unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. The MX Red provides a lighter typing experience, which can be favorable for extended typing sessions and gaming, while the Kailh Sage offers a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced keystroke feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see that the MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Sage has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even a small variation can affect the typing experience. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sage switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the MX Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer their own unique sensations, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance regardless of the slight difference in travel distance.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is characterized by a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the MX Red providing a deeper tone and the Sage delivering a sharp and crisp clickiness.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its slightly textured feel, providing a tactile feedback that some users appreciate. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, offering a pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force for a snappy and immersive typing experience. While the MX Red offers a textured feel for those who enjoy a bit of friction when typing, the Sage provides a sharper tactile bump for a more intense typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Cherry MX Red and Kailh Sage switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Red provides a deeper and slightly textured typing experience, the Sage offers a sharp and invigorating clickiness. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer the thocky sound and textured feel of the MX Red or the crunchy sound and sharp tactile feedback of the Sage, you can expect to get similar results in terms of responsiveness and overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your typing preferences carefully. If you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with no tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a heavy bottom out force and sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Sage switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and the type of typing feel and sound profile you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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