Cherry MX Silent Red vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Strawberry are two popular options to consider. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that stands out for its quieter operation compared to the classic MX Red. It offers a slightly heavier feel while maintaining a satisfying typing experience with a significantly muted sound profile, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is also a linear switch known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, the Strawberry switch provides a frictionless and buttery typing experience that is polished and low-pitched. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Strawberry, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry employs a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic material. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound output.
Furthermore, the Cherry MX Silent Red and KTT Strawberry also differ in their bottom housing materials. The Cherry MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Strawberry. The choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch, highlighting the importance of understanding how different plastics can impact the typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Strawberry, both switches prioritize sound quality and offer distinct typing experiences to users. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound profile of the nylon housing in the MX Silent Red or the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate housing in the KTT Strawberry, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches, however, have a bottom out force that is either unknown or not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the more preferred choice due to its slightly lighter actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the KTT Strawberry with its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we find that the MX Silent Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the MX Silent Red being on the shorter end and the KTT Strawberry being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the MX Silent Red for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the KTT Strawberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Strawberry linear switches, the MX Silent Red is known for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. This switch offers a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches, with a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is also described as low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches share a low-pitched characteristic, the MX Silent Red is specifically designed to minimize noise, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch with a quieter sound profile, the MX Silent Red would be the preferred choice.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is labeled as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance. The Strawberry switch prioritizes a fluid travel and smooth key press, providing a polished and refined typing experience. If you enjoy a smoother and more frictionless feel, the KTT Strawberry switch would be the recommendation.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Cherry MX Silent Red and KTT Strawberry linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Silent Red excels in providing a muted and thocky typing sound, with a slightly textured feel for those who prefer a bit of friction. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch boasts a low-pitched sound profile and a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, delivering a smooth and fluid typing experience. In this case, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, ensuring a satisfying and reliable performance for different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the MX Silent Red would be the ideal choice for you. Its muted sound profile and slightly heftier feel make it a great option for those who want to maintain the satisfying typing experience of a mechanical keyboard without the loud clacks. On the other hand, if you value a smooth, frictionless typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Strawberry switch would be more suitable for you. The Strawberry switch offers a silky, buttery typing experience with its low-pitched sound profile and clear housings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment.
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