Cherry MX Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, it becomes evident that they offer unique features and benefits to cater to different preferences. The MX Red is renowned for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the MX Red is known for being 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Zero Degree 0° is categorized differently. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in bottom housing material will likely lead to comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. However, the differences in their top housing materials, with the MX Red utilizing nylon and the Zero Degree 0° using polycarbonate, will result in distinct sound profiles. The MX Red's nylon top housing will provide a softer and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° will produce a sharper and crisper sound.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer contrasting characteristics. The MX Red features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° employs a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. While both switches still utilize nylon for their bottom housing, it is clear that the choice of top housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° contribute to their distinct typing experiences. The combination of nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a similar depth and fullness in sound while typing. However, the contrasting top housing materials result in varying sound profiles, with the MX Red offering a softer and rounder sound compared to the sharper and clearer sound of the Zero Degree 0°. Whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style. Nevertheless, the materials used in the housing of each switch play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches have identical actuation forces of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, both switches are on the lighter side, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. The lack of bottom out force information makes it difficult to determine which switch is heavier, but it can be assumed that they would provide similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force, as well as any additional features or characteristics that may differentiate the two switches.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Cherry MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Cherry MX Red is more traditional, providing a slightly deeper feel when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° with its 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower feel, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a smooth linear keystroke, but the Cherry MX Red may be better suited for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is ideal for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker inputs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound of the Cherry MX Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches, the MX Red is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is designed to reduce noise with its self-padding and dual-rail structure, creating a quieter typing experience overall. Depending on your personal preference, the MX Red will offer a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, while the Zero Degree 0° will provide a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, however, does not have any specific descriptors related to its feel. This may indicate that the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses more on providing a smooth and stable typing experience without any noticeable texture or friction. For users who enjoy a more tactile feel, the MX Red may be the preferred choice, while those who prioritize smoothness and stability may lean towards the Zero Degree 0° switch.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Red provides a deeper sound profile and a textured feel, ideal for users who enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a quieter typing experience with a smooth and stable feel, perfect for those who prioritize reduced noise and soft keypresses. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on the user's individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Red linear switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should opt for the MX Red if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, if you want a switch that prioritizes silent typing with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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