Cherry MX Red vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the Everglide Sakura Pink. The Cherry MX Red is a classic linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switches are super light and boast a feather-light 35g actuation force, perfect for delicate typists. They provide a smooth and effortless typing experience with a delightful poppy sound, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Everglide Sakura Pink switches, one can see a clear difference in the sound profile they produce. The MX Red's nylon top and bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the Sakura Pink's polycarbonate top and bottom housing result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the two switches also differ. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Sakura Pink allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. On the other hand, the opaque nylon top housing of the MX Red may not offer the same visual effect but contributes to a more subtle and classic look. Depending on personal preference, users may choose a switch based on both the sound profile and the aesthetics of the housing material.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Cherry MX Red and Everglide Sakura Pink switches offer a high-quality typing experience. Whether users prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon housing in the MX Red or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Sakura Pink, they can expect a consistent and reliable performance from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials may come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall appearance.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch's actuation force of 35 grams. However, the Sakura Pink switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Red switch is unknown. This means that while the MX Red switch requires more force to initially trigger a keystroke, the Sakura Pink switch will provide a lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Sakura Pink switch may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the MX Red switch may be preferred by those who desire a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed, determining how far you need to press down on a key to register a keystroke. In this case, both switches require the same amount of travel to actuate, resulting in similar typing experiences for users. With a travel distance of 4 mm for both switches, whether you choose the Cherry MX Red or the Everglide Sakura Pink, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of keypress feedback and typing feel.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 provides a deep and satisfying "thocky" noise, giving a pleasant auditory feedback as you type. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch offers a more muted sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the MX Red having a low-pitched tone and the Sakura Pink producing a poppy sound akin to bubble wrap being popped. Ultimately, your choice of keycaps and keyboard build will also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, offering some friction during key presses. This can be preferred by users who enjoy a bit of resistance when typing. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch provides a buttery and creamy typing experience, with a smooth and easy-to-press operation. These switches have a frictionless feel, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, but the MX Red may appeal more to those who appreciate a textured sensation while typing.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red and Everglide Sakura Pink switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Red switch is best suited for users who prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, while the Sakura Pink switch is perfect for those who enjoy a light and smooth typing experience with a playful sound. Whether you choose the MX Red or Sakura Pink, you can expect a high-quality linear switch that provides a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with a robust typing experience, you may want to go for the Cherry MX Red linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a super light actuation force for delicate typing, a smooth and effortless typing experience with a playful sound, and a frictionless operation, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on the typing experience you are seeking and the sound profile you prefer. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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