Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, to the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, it is important to consider the unique characteristics and advantages of each. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience compared to its non-silent counterpart, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments while still maintaining a satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, making it enjoyable for those who prefer a moderate tactile bump without the added weightiness commonly found in other tactile switches. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Kailh Plum switches, it's evident that they both utilize nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housings. Both switches share this quality, providing a consistent typing experience with a more muted sound compared to harder plastic materials.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Cherry MX Silent Red uses nylon while the Kailh Plum incorporates polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Plum switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound with a visual benefit of translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the bottom housing, emphasizing a consistent typing experience throughout the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Kailh Plum switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The nylon housing in both switches provides a softer and more absorbent material for a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum switch produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately offer a satisfying typing experience with unique auditory characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound from nylon or a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate, these switches have something to offer for every typist.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, a clear distinction can be made. The MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Plum switch's actuation force is unknown, but it does have a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. For those looking for a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the MX Silent Red would be the preferred choice. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Kailh Plum switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them suitable for users who prefer faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as they both fall within the same range. However, those who are particularly sensitive to the feel of the keyboard may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red to be slightly more comfortable, while others may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Kailh Plum for a more immediate response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Silent Red switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch provides a neutral sound profile that is pleasant and suitable for various settings. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the MX Silent Red focusing on reducing noise levels significantly, while the Plum switch maintains a balanced sound suitable for most users.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is noted for its textured sensation, adding a subtle friction that some users may appreciate for a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild and comfortable feel, making it approachable for a wide range of users. The Plum switch also features a stepped design, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced tactile bumps. Overall, the MX Silent Red switch offers a textured feel for those who enjoy a bit of friction, while the Plum switch provides a comfortable and mild typing sensation suitable for most users.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red and Kailh Plum switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted and low-pitched sound profile, along with a textured feel for added tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Kailh Plum switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound, coupled with a mild and comfortable typing sensation that is suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both options providing a satisfying and efficient typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should consider your preference for noise level, tactile feedback, and typing experience. If you value a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the MX Silent Red would be a great choice with its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique combination of weightiness and a subtle tactile bump without overwhelming noise, the Kailh Plum switch might be more to your liking with its neutral sound profile, mild feel, and stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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