Cherry MX Red vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the Jwick Taro. 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. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro is a tactile switch that offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Taro is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Each switch has its own merits, with the MX Red offering a classic typing experience and the Taro providing a comfortable and tactile feel. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Cherry MX Red and the Jwick Taro in terms of housing materials is that the MX Red features a nylon top housing while the Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the MX Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic nature. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Cherry MX Red and the Jwick Taro use nylon. As a result, both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent sound profile when pressing down on keys for both switches. While the bottom housing may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the similarities in material between the MX Red and Taro suggest that users will experience comparable typing experiences in this regard.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and Jwick Taro will largely come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. While the MX Red offers a duller and rounder sound profile due to its nylon top housing, the Taro provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches share a common ground with their nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar deep and full sound profile when keys are pressed. Ultimately, users should consider their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, as the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the Cherry MX Red is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Taro switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when considering bottom out force, the Taro switch is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red's unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red due to its lower actuation force, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jwick Taro switch with its higher bottom out force, providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Taro's 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for key switches, with the MX Red being on the longer end while the Taro is slightly shorter. The choice between a longer and a shorter travel distance ultimately depends on personal preference and intended use. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Taro for quicker response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the MX Red more comfortable for a more deliberate key press. Overall, while the travel distances vary slightly between the two switches, both offer a satisfying typing experience in their own right.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 profile, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that suits a wide range of users and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, as well as the keyboard and keycaps used in combination with the switch.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is characterized as textured, offering a slightly scratchy feel when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch is described as buttery and stepped, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a subtle tactile feel. For those who prefer a more tactile typing experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations, the Jwick Taro switch may be the preferred choice. However, if a slightly textured and more friction-free feel is desired, the Cherry MX Red switch could be the better option.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Red and Jwick Taro switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, thocky sound with a slightly textured feel or a neutral sound with a buttery, stepped feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. Experimenting with different switches on various keyboards and keycaps can help you find the perfect fit for your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and linear typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red linear switch would be the way to go. The MX Red offers a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. However, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a cozy typing sensation, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be more suitable for you. The Taro switch provides a snappy, medium-level of tactility with acute and crisp clacks. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a linear or tactile typing feel, as well as the specific sound profile and bottom out force that best suits your typing preferences.
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