Cherry MX Red vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Yunhai, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Cherry MX Red is celebrated for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that expertly balances responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. This switch is often favored by gamers and typists who appreciate a solid tactile experience, enhanced by its “thocky” and low-pitched characteristics. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai distinguishes itself with a remarkably light actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a gentle and effortless typing feel. With its deep, rounded sound profile, the Yunhai appeals particularly to users seeking a quieter yet immersive typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, catering 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

Cherry MX Red Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Yunhai switches, it's important to note that both switches employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This shared material choice leads to similar acoustic characteristics, as nylon is known for its slightly softer properties compared to harder plastics. As such, both switches are designed to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which enhances the overall typing experience. The use of nylon helps absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback when typing, making both options optimal for users seeking a quieter operation.

Though both the MX Red and Yunhai utilize nylon throughout their housings, variations in the design and construction of the switches can still lead to different tactile experiences. For instance, while the nylon in both switches contributes to the depth and fullness of sound, the way each manufacturer has implemented the design may affect the feel of bottoming out or releasing a key. Factors such as the housing shape, stem interaction, and internal structures can introduce subtle differences in how each switch feels, even when constructed from the same material. This means that while the sound profiles may be similar, the tactile sensations offered by each switch can still be distinct due to these design nuances.

In summary, the use of nylon as the housing material for both Cherry MX Red and TTC Yunhai switches ensures that users can expect a similar auditory experience characterized by a softer, more rounded sound. However, variations in design between the two models may lead to different tactile feedback when typing. Therefore, while the fundamental qualities inherent to the nylon material lend both switches to produce comparable results, individual preferences based on the overall design and feel might encourage users to choose one over the other depending on their typing style and needs.

Weight

The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch display some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can impact user experience. The Cherry MX Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the TTC Yunhai is slightly lighter at 42 grams. This means the Yunhai switch may be preferable for those who favor a more effortless typing experience, making it suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the MX Red, being heavier, offers a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. Regarding the bottom out force, the TTC Yunhai switch has a specified bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This suggests that the Yunhai delivers a definitive resistance at the bottom of the keystroke, further distinguishing its feel compared to the MX Red. Overall, for users prioritizing a lighter touch and a clearer bottom out sensation, the TTC Yunhai may be the better choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Cherry MX Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper feel, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer the tactile feedback of a longer travel distance. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to users who favor quicker responsiveness and a more abrupt key press, often sought after by gamers. Therefore, if you prioritize a swifter actuation and a lighter touch, the TTC Yunhai would be the better option. Conversely, if you appreciate a more pronounced travel feel that offers depth, the Cherry MX Red stands out. Overall, the Cherry MX Red is the longer option while the TTC Yunhai is the shorter one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Red switch produces a thocky and low-pitched auditory experience that is often described as satisfying and rich. This depth provides a sense of weight and gravity with each keystroke, reminiscent of a soft "thud" or "knock." In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch does not have specified sound qualities, but given the lighter actuation force, one could expect a different auditory profile that may lean towards a more gentle sound, though it would depend on the keyboard's build and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is recognized for its textured sensation, which introduces a noticeable friction during keystrokes. This can create a tactile distinction that some typists find advantageous, providing a sort of feedback that enhances the typing experience. The TTC Yunhai switch, however, lacks defined characteristics for feel in the given information, leaving its tactile sensation unknown. Nevertheless, the light actuation force implies that it may offer a smoother experience that favors minimal resistance, suitable for those who prefer an effortless typing flow.

Overall, while the Cherry MX Red and TTC Yunhai switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences, the MX Red's thocky sound and textured feel create a robust and engaging typing environment. The Yunhai's lighter actuation is tailored for users who favor a more subtle typing experience, with its sound qualities still unidentified. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences, with the MX Red catering to those who appreciate depth and texture, while the Yunhai may appeal to typists seeking a lighter, potentially quieter alternative.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between Cherry MX Red and TTC Yunhai linear switches, consider your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you are seeking a classic typing experience with a slightly heavier feel and a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Cherry MX Red would be an excellent choice. Its textured response gives a tactile feedback that many users appreciate, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke, coupled with a unique auditory experience, the TTC Yunhai’s 50-gram bottom-out force offers a gentler touch that's ideal for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. The Yunhai’s lighter actuation can decrease fatigue, especially for users who type for prolonged periods. Ultimately, choose the Cherry MX Red for a robust and satisfying feel, while the TTC Yunhai is well-suited for those who enjoy a smooth, low-effort experience without compromising sound quality.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more