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84
Cherry MX Red  Linear

Cherry MX Red Linear Switches

This linear switch suits users who want a smooth, consistent keystroke with low actuation force. It fits gamers seeking quick, light key presses and typists preferring minimal resistance without tactile bumps or clicks. It is not designed for those who want tactile feedback or quiet operation.</p... Read more
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Compare Cherry MX Red Linear vs Ktt Purple Star Linear vs Cherry MX2A Speed Silver Linear Specification

Compare similar switches side by side, or use the comparison table to compare all keyboards!
Cherry MX Red LinearKtt Purple Star LinearCherry MX2A Speed Silver Linear
84
Cherry MX Red  Linear
-32% off
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0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • 2mm pre-travel
  • 43g actuation force
  • 50g bottom-out force
  • 1.8mm pre-travel
  • Clacky, sound profile
  • 22mm spring
  • Long pole design
  • 1.2mm pre-travel
  • 3.4mm total travel
  • 3-Pin-pin mount
  • Creamy sound profile

Compared with medium linear switches

  • Overall / Value:84.1
  • Materials:94.2
  • Finish:52.4

Compared with light linear switches

  • Overall / Value:93.8
  • Materials:93.9
  • Finish:84.3

Compared with medium linear switches

  • Overall / Value:94.6
  • Materials:94.2
  • Finish:83.9
Name
Cherry MX Red Linear
Name
Ktt Purple Star Linear
Name
Cherry MX2A Speed Silver Linear
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch type
Linear
Switch type
Linear
Switch type
Linear
Factory lubed
 
Factory lubed
 
Factory lubed
 
Profile
Standard profile
Profile
Standard profile
Profile
Standard profile
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom out force
45g
Bottom out force
50g
Bottom out force
45g
Pre travel
2mm
Pre travel
1.8mm
Pre travel
1.2mm
Total travel
4mm
Total travel
4mm
Total travel
3.4mm
Pins
5-Pin
Pins
5-Pin
Pins
3-Pin
Magnetic Hall Effect
 
Magnetic Hall Effect
 
Magnetic Hall Effect
 
Top Housing Material
POM
Top Housing Material
POM
Top Housing Material
POM
Bottom Housing Material
POM
Bottom Housing Material
POM
Bottom Housing Material
POM
Stem Material
POM
Stem Material
POM
Stem Material
POM
Sound profile
-
Sound profile
Clacky
Sound profile
Creamy
Spring type
-
Spring type
-
Spring type
-
Spring material
Stainless Steel
Spring material
Stainless Steel
Spring material
Stainless Steel
Double stage
 
Double stage
 
Double stage
 
Long pole
 
Long pole
 
Long pole
 
Dust proof
 
Dust proof
 
Dust proof
 
Water resistant
 
Water resistant
 
Water resistant
 
Weight
0.2g
Weight
43g
Weight
-
Spring length
-
Spring length
22mm
Spring length
-
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Product Description

This linear switch suits users who want a smooth, consistent keystroke with low actuation force. It fits gamers seeking quick, light key presses and typists preferring minimal resistance without tactile bumps or clicks. It is not designed for those who want tactile feedback or quiet operation.

Feel & Sound

The switch offers a smooth, linear feel with no tactile bump or audible click. This results in a quieter typing experience compared to clicky switches, but it is not silent. The consistent force curve supports fast, repeated key presses without interruption.

Actuation Characteristics

It actuates at a light force, allowing for quick response with minimal finger fatigue. The total key travel is standard, providing a balanced bottom-out feel without harsh impact. This makes it suitable for gaming and extended typing sessions.

Build Quality

Constructed with a solid housing and stem design, the switch feels sturdy and reliable. The PCB mount style includes plastic prongs that secure the switch firmly, reducing wobble compared to some alternatives. Durability is rated for 50 million keystrokes.

Trade-offs

Some units may exhibit slight scratchiness before break-in, which can improve with additional lubrication. The lack of tactile feedback may not satisfy users who prefer a more pronounced typing feel. It is not silent, so it may produce moderate noise in quiet environments.

Use Cases

Well-suited for gaming due to fast actuation and smooth key presses. Typists who favor linear switches will find it comfortable for long sessions. Less ideal for office settings requiring near-silent operation or for users who want tactile or clicky feedback.

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