Cherry MX Red vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Red and Durock Sea Glass mechanical keyboard switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Red is a classic switch known for its robust typing experience, slightly heftier feel, and deeper sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches boast a captivating selection of pastel colors and a proprietary material blend that results in a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness when typing. While the Cherry MX Red offers a 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured' experience, the Sea Glass switches provide a 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press' feel. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Durock Sea Glass both utilize nylon in their top and bottom housings, providing a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. However, the Sea Glass takes it a step further by incorporating UHMWPE in its blend, resulting in a sound profile that leans towards the brighter side compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the MX Red. This difference in material composition contributes to a unique typing experience for each switch.
In terms of sound profile, the MX Red offers a duller and rounder sound due to its classic nylon housing. This creates a more muffled and muted typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a quieter switch. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE produces a sound that is described as pleasant and not particularly sharp, with a slightly brighter tone. This makes the Sea Glass a good option for those looking for a switch with a bit more character in its sound profile.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be felt differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. This means that the unique blend of materials in the Sea Glass may result in a more dynamic typing experience, with a balance of sound characteristics from both the top and bottom housings. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Durock Sea Glass is heavier when it comes to bottom out force, with 62 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red's unknown bottom out force. This means that while both switches will require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, the Durock Sea Glass will provide a heavier feel when fully pressed. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of 45 grams for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the more substantial typing experience provided by the heavier bottom out force of the Durock Sea Glass. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of relatively short travel distances, with the MX Red being slightly longer than the Sea Glass. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the Sea Glass for quicker response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the MX Red. Overall, both switches offer similar experiences due to their close travel distances, but the slight variation may cater to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. In comparison, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature due to its proprietary material blend, resulting in a dry, wispy, and airy typing sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, offering a tactile typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch is characterized by its frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press qualities, providing an effortless and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. These switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Sea Glass switch emphasizing a lighter and more gentle typing feel compared to the slightly heftier feel of the Cherry MX Red switch.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red and Durock Sea Glass switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cherry MX Red switch provides a deeper and textured typing experience, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a lighter and smoother feel with a uniquely hollow sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both options providing satisfying typing experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, along with a responsive typing experience, the Cherry MX Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the unique pastel colors and proprietary material blend of the Durock Sea Glass switches, which provide a distinct dry, smooth, and weightless typing experience, then the Sea Glass switches could be the right pick for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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