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Cherry MX Red vs Black vs Brown – What’s the Difference?
Cherry MX Red vs Black vs Brown – What’s the Difference?
If you’re assembling a mechanical keyboard or upgrading your current switches, you’ll quickly encounter a classic: Cherry MX switches. At RGBKeys, we currently stock three popular variants:
But what exactly is the difference between these three?
1. Cherry MX Red – Light and Linear
- Type: Linear
- Actuation force: 45g
- Feedback: No tactile bump, no click sound
- Ideal for: Gaming, fast response times
MX Red switches feel smooth from top to bottom, without interruption or tactile feedback. Perfect for gamers who want quick, repeated keypresses with minimal resistance.
2. Cherry MX Black – Heavier and Linear
- Type: Linear
- Actuation force: 60g
- Feedback: No bump, quieter than clicky switches
- Ideal for: Typists who want to avoid accidental keypresses
They resemble Red switches, but require more force. This makes them ideal for users who like a more substantial feel or tend to type firmly.
3. Cherry MX Brown – Tactile Without Click
- Type: Tactile
- Actuation force: 55g
- Feedback: Tactile bump, no click sound
- Ideal for: All-round use, typing
Brown switches provide a gentle tactile bump in the middle of the keystroke. This gives you the feeling of feedback without the noise of clicky switches like Blues.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re mostly into gaming and value fast, light keystrokes, the Cherry MX Red switches are an excellent choice. With a linear motion and no tactile feedback, they’re smooth and highly responsive — ideal for competitive gameplay.
Are you looking for more control and weight while typing? Then Cherry MX Black switches may suit you better. Still linear, but with higher actuation force, allowing for more precision and fewer accidental presses. A favorite among heavy typists and professionals.
If you're unsure, Cherry MX Brown switches offer a perfect middle ground. They provide a subtle tactile bump without the clicky sound, making them suitable for both typing and casual gaming. Slightly heavier than Reds, but lighter than Blacks — great for all-round use.
In summary:
- Red is for smooth, fast gaming
- Black is for control and precision
- Brown is for comfort and versatility
Whether you're after the ultimate gaming experience or a comfortable typing session, there’s always a Cherry switch that fits your needs.
👉 Explore all Cherry switches in our collection at RGBKeys.com/en
