Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch. The MX Silent Red is praised for its quiet operation while still offering a satisfying typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. In contrast, the Kailh Sage provides a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp clickiness. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the Sage is described as 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Crunchy'. 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 Sage, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sage features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in material ultimately affects the overall sound experience of the switches, with the nylon housing providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the more clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the MX Silent Red and the Sage share the use of nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality, with the nylon bottom housing creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound experience for both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Kailh Sage impacts the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Sage's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a consistent deep and full sound experience. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials highlight the importance of material choice in determining the sound profile and overall typing feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that they are quite different in terms of weight. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the Sage does not specify its actuation force, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the MX Silent Red more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while users looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the Kailh Sage despite the heavier bottom out force. 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 3.7mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, particularly amongst gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be significant to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Cherry MX Silent Red more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a balance between speed and comfort for typing or gaming.
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 Sage 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 is favored for its muted and thocky characteristics, providing a quieter typing experience that minimizes noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is known for its crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Silent Red leaning towards a low-pitched profile, while the Sage exhibits a more crunchy and lively clicky sound.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which may provide a different tactile experience compared to smoother switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is noted for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a firm actuation force and a reactive typing sensation. While the Silent Red switch may offer a slightly heftier feel similar to the MX Red, the Sage provides a more pronounced and sharp tactile bump for a more intense typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a thocky sound profile and a textured feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is perfect for users who enjoy a crunchy clicky sound and an invigorating, sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your environment and personal preference. If you are in a noise-sensitive area or simply prefer a quieter typing experience, the MX Silent Red would be a great choice with its muted and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced and invigorating typing feel along with a crunchy clicky sound, the Kailh Sage clicky switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a silent operation or a satisfying clicky feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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