Cherry MX Red vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Cherry MX Red and the Huano Sakura. The Cherry MX Red is celebrated for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience that balances responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who enjoy a rich acoustic environment. In contrast, the Huano Sakura provides a feather-light touch coupled with medium acoustics, making it ideal for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue—perfect for those who prioritize comfort during long stints of writing or coding. While both switches fall into the linear category, they cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and sound. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Cherry MX Red and Huano Sakura switches, one of the most notable differences lies in their top housing materials. The Cherry MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer properties that absorb sound effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, contributing to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a POK top housing, renowned for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. Although it offers a smoother performance, the POK material is designed to provide a clackier sound, thus distinguishing the acoustic signature of the Sakura switch from the MX Red. Consequently, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the materials specifically alter the auditory qualities when engaging with the keys.
Turning to the bottom housings of these switches reveals a fascinating similarity. Both the Cherry MX Red and Huano Sakura use nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in comparable characteristics. These nylon bottom housings share analogous acoustic properties, reinforcing the deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The impact of the bottom housing on the feel of the switch is pronounced, with users experiencing the soft feel synonymous with nylon, which also influences the bottom-out sound. Therefore, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that certain fundamental acoustic attributes are consistently felt across both switches, creating a baseline of familiarity for users irrespective of the differences in their top housings.
In essence, when playing on the Cherry MX Red or the Huano Sakura, users can expect distinct experiences stemming from the top housing's materials, even as the bottom housing guarantees a consistent nylon experience. The MX Red's nylon construction contributes to a denser sound profile, while the POK material in the Sakura fosters a different, more pronounced typing experience with improved durability. However, given the shared nylon bottom housings, both switches ultimately harness the acoustic insulation and key feel typical of this material, promoting a nuanced yet harmonious typing experience that resonates well among keyboard enthusiasts. The interplay between the differing top housings and the identical bottom housings showcases the intricate relationship between housing materials and overall switch behavior.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch present notable differences in their actuation forces, which can significantly impact user experience during typing or gaming. The MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sakura boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the MX Red remains unknown, the Sakura's bottom out force is specified at 45 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer feedback when fully pressed down. This means that while the Cherry MX Red may offer a more substantial feel, the Huano Sakura allows for easier actuation with the added benefit of a lighter bottoming out experience. Users seeking a lighter switch might lean towards the Huano Sakura, while those preferring a heavier, more tactile experience may find the Cherry MX Red more appealing. Overall, the weight differences in actuation force suggest that the Huano Sakura is better suited for prolonged use, whereas the Cherry MX Red could satisfy those desiring a more robust typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, it is clear that the MX Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sakura offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference may influence users' preferences based on their habitual typing or gaming style. Gamers, who often favor quicker response times, may gravitate toward the Sakura's shorter travel distance for a more rapid actuation, resulting in potentially faster gameplay. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and a deeper feel may prefer the Cherry MX Red, as its greater travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference—if you’re looking for a more responsive option, the Sakura would be the ideal choice, while the MX Red caters to those who enjoy a more traditional, depth-focused keystroke.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 Red switch is notably deeper and richer, often referred to as "thocky." This characteristic provides a satisfying auditory experience, emulating a robust thud or soft knock when keys are pressed and released. This quality is appealing for those who enjoy a more substantial acoustic feedback while typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch features medium acoustics, which means it produces a lighter sound profile that is less resonant than the MX Red. This makes it more suitable for quiet environments or for users who prefer a less pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its slightly heftier and textured sensation. This textured quality may introduce a subtle friction when keys are pressed, which some users find desirable for a more engaging typing experience, while others might prefer a smoother switch. On the other hand, the feel of the Huano Sakura switch has not been specified. Without additional information on the Sakura, it is unclear how it compares to the more textured feel of the MX Red.
In summary, the Cherry MX Red offers a more pronounced sound and a textured feel, making it suitable for users who enjoy an engaging typing experience with recognizable auditory feedback. In contrast, the Huano Sakura provides a lighter touch and medium acoustics, catering to those who favor a quieter and potentially smoother typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, these switches can deliver satisfying results, though the overall experience may vary based on the specific keyboard build and keycap choice. If you enjoy a deeper sound with more tactile feedback, the MX Red would be the better option, whereas the Sakura may be ideal for extended sessions with less auditory distraction.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between Cherry MX Red and Huano Sakura linear switches, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a slightly heftier feel combined with a deeper and more thocky sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be the right choice for you, especially if you appreciate a robust typing experience that offers a textured touch. This switch can be particularly satisfying for those who type vigorously and enjoy an auditory feedback that adds depth to their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize a feather-light touch combined with a smoother typing experience, the Huano Sakura linear switch is an excellent option. It's ideal for extended typing sessions where comfort is key, as it requires less force to actuate and has a more muted sound profile. In essence, choose the Cherry MX Red for a more substantial and tactile feel, while the Huano Sakura is perfect for those seeking speed and comfort during long typing marathons. Your personal comfort and typing style will ultimately guide you to the best switch for your needs.
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