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Cherry MX Red (MX1A) vs Cherry MX2A Red – Classic Linear vs Modern MX2A Linear
Not sure whether to choose Cherry MX Red (MX1A) or Cherry MX2A Red? Both are light linear switches without a tactile bump, but MX2A feels like the more modern, refined version of the classic Red.
Quick choice guide
- Choose MX Red (MX1A) if you want the classic Cherry Red experience: light, simple, and familiar.
- Choose MX2A Red if you want the same weight but with more smoothness, less wobble, and a calmer sound profile.
1. Construction & Materials
- Cherry MX Red (MX1A) – Classic nylon housing with a POM stem and traditional Cherry rail design. Known as a predictable linear switch, though stock feel can sometimes be slightly scratchy or hollow.
- Cherry MX2A Red – Updated MX2A housing with optimized rails, adjusted spring behavior, and factory lubrication. Designed for smoother, more consistent travel.
2. Technical Specifications
Cherry MX Red (MX1A)
- Type: Linear (no bump, no click)
- Actuation: approx. 45 cN
- Bottom-out: approx. 55–60 cN
- Pre-travel: 2.0 mm
- Total travel: 4.0 mm
- Housing: Nylon top & bottom
- Stem: POM
- Lifespan: up to 100 million keystrokes
- Character: light, direct, classic Cherry linear
Cherry MX2A Red
- Type: Linear (refined travel)
- Actuation: approx. 45 cN
- Bottom-out: approx. 55–60 cN
- Pre-travel: 2.0 mm
- Total travel: 4.0 mm
- Housing: MX2A with improved rail guidance
- Stem: POM with tighter guidance
- Lifespan: up to 100 million keystrokes
- Character: same light weight class, but smoother and more consistent
3. Sound & Typing Feel
| Switch | Sound | Typing Feel | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry MX Red (MX1A) | Soft, slightly higher pitch; more noticeable top-/bottom-out | Light and linear; can feel a bit scratchy/hollow stock | Gaming, beginners, classic linear setups |
| Cherry MX2A Red | Slightly deeper/calmer; less friction and rattle noise | Same light spring, but noticeably smoother and more stable | Long sessions, daily driver use, modern Cherry feel |
| Cherry MX Brown | Soft, non-clicky | Mild tactile bump | Users who want some feedback instead of fully linear |
4. Community Impressions
“MX Red is still the safe gaming choice: light and predictable.”
“MX2A Red feels like Red 2.0: same foundation, just cleaner overall.”
“For long-term use, MX2A is often more comfortable thanks to smoother travel.”
5. Pros & Cons
Cherry MX Red (MX1A)
Pros:
- Proven classic with broad compatibility
- Light and easy to get used to
- Widely available in prebuilt keyboards
Cons:
- Stock smoothness may lag behind modern linears
- Can sound a bit hollow/sharper depending on build
- Less “premium” feel without mods
Cherry MX2A Red
Pros:
- Smoother travel via improved rails + factory lube
- Less wobble and more consistent key-to-key feel
- Same light Cherry Red profile, but more refined
Cons:
- Still a light switch: heavy-linear fans may want more resistance
- Factory lube is good, but not necessarily “endgame” for modders
- If you like the raw old Red character, MX2A may feel “too clean”
6. Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose MX Red (MX1A) if you want the classic Cherry Red you already know from many gaming keyboards.
- Choose MX2A Red if you want a modern Cherry Red upgrade with more comfort, less noise, and better consistency.
7. Where to Buy
Conclusion
Cherry MX Red (MX1A) and Cherry MX2A Red serve the same audience: users who want a light linear switch for gaming and daily use. MX1A is the trusted classic; MX2A is the cleaned-up evolution with more smoothness, stability, and calmer sound.
If you want simple and proven, go MX Red (MX1A). If you want that same base with a more modern finish, MX2A Red is the logical step.
Also check the full Switch Collection at RGBKeys for more linear, tactile, clicky, and silent options.