Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Kailh Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer distinctive features catering to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver is perfect for those seeking lightning-fast response times, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum offers a unique tactile experience with its hefty feel and subtle tactile bump, appealing to users who prefer a more moderate tactility. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Kailh Plum switches have distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing. The MX Speed Silver uses a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Plum switch features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate top housings ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences, particularly when using RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the MX Speed Silver and Kailh Plum switches utilize nylon material. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, the typing experience on switches with nylon bottom housings will likely result in a duller and rounder sound, providing consistency in sound profile across both switches. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the overall typing experience can still be influenced by the design and composition of the top housing.
In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when keys are released. The combination of different housing materials in the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Kailh Plum switches allows for a balance between the deep and full sound generated by the nylon bottom housing and the sharp and clear sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 30 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Plum switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is preferred for a more substantial typing experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be the ideal choice due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Cherry MX Speed Silver for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the Kailh Plum tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound upon actuation. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is generally pleasing to the ear. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its textured feel, which may not be preferred by all users as it introduces friction during typing. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a stepped tactile feedback, providing a more gentle and approachable feel for most users. The Plum's unique lack of a significant tactile bump sets it apart from other tactile switches on the market.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch excels in rapid response time and provides a thocky sound with a textured feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique, weighty feel with a neutral sound profile and mild tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, with the MX Speed Silver being ideal for gamers seeking speed and the Plum appealing to those looking for a unique tactile experience without a pronounced bump. It's important for newcomers to consider their typing habits and preferences when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and quick response times, especially for gaming purposes where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice for you. Its linear action and low spring resistance provide instant triggering, making it a top choice for competitive gamers. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum switch would be a great option. Its distinctive weightiness without a prominent tactile bump sets it apart from other tactile switches, providing a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your personal preferences and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
