Best Cherry MX Low Profile Switches - Detailed Review in 2024

  • Keycaps 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Sep 7, 2023

If you love mechanical keyboards or want to improve your typing and gaming, the best Cherry MX low-profile switches are the perfect choice for you. This post will help you discover an appropriate low-profile switch that satisfies all of your criteria.

1. Key Features of Cherry MX Low Profile switches

Low-profile switches are mechanical keyboard switches that have a lower actuation distance and overall necessary travel than standard switches. Let's explore in more detail "What are Low Profile Switches?" in our latest guide right away.

1.1. Design

Compared to conventional mechanical switches, these switches are slimmer and more streamlined due to their low-profile design. This layout reduces the keyboard height overall, making typing more pleasant. The reduced keycap height contributes to a sleek and contemporary design, making them an excellent choice for modern, thin, and compact keyboards.

Cherry MX standard and Cherry MX low-profile switches
Cherry MX standard and Cherry MX low-profile switches

1.2. Feel & Sound

For an in-depth review and sound test of Cherry MX Low Profile switches, check out this video right away.

Compared to their regular equivalents, these switches have a shorter actuation distance and a shorter travel distance. Users thus perceive a quicker and more responsive keyboard registration. The actuation force needed to push the keys is often lower, providing a smoother and easier typing experience.

Additionally, the low-profile switches could make a softer and quieter sound in comparison to conventional mechanical switches, making them perfect for customers who want a quieter typing experience.

1.3. Durability and Longevity

The Low Profile Cherry MX switches are designed to survive extensive use and can withstand tens of millions of keystrokes, much like conventional Cherry MX switches. This guarantees that your keyboard will last a long time, even under heavy use.

1.4. Compatibility

Cherry MX Low Profile switches are compatible with so many mechanical keyboard models that enthusiasts have the option of upgrading their current keyboard or selecting one of several models that already have these switches installed. 

They are commonly used in slim and compact mechanical keyboards that require a lower switch height. Additionally, the switches are suitable for keyboards with low-profile case designs, allowing users to maintain the sleek and compact form factor.

2. Are Cherry MX Low Profile switches good? 

Are Cherry MX Low Profile switches good?
Are Cherry MX Low Profile switches good?

2.1. Design

Cherry MX Low Profile switches stand out for their sleek and slim form. They provide mechanical keyboards with a more streamlined and visually pleasing appearance due to their shorter height than standard mechanical switches.

Users who like a flatter keyboard profile particularly value the low-profile design, which is good for ergonomics and lessens wrist fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.

2.2. Feel

Cherry MX Low Profile switches have linear and smooth actuation. This fluid and linear feel offers an effortless and seamless typing experience, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. These switches typically feel quite pleasing to users who like a more continuous and fluid keypress.

2.3. Durability and Longevity

These switches can sustain continuous, intensive use without degrading due to their high-quality construction and gold-crosspoint contacts. These switches are dependable options for people looking to make a long-term investment in their mechanical keyboard because they have an average lifespan of tens of millions of keystrokes.

2.4. Compatibility

Compatible with a variety of keycap sets
Compatible with a variety of keycap sets

Excellent compatibility makes Cherry MX Low Profile switches suitable for a wide range of mechanical keyboards. They are compatible with a variety of keycap sets made for Cherry MX switches thanks to their standard cross-shaped stem. 

Additionally, Cherry MX Low Profile switches are flexible and adaptable for various keyboard form factors and brands since they are made to fit into diverse keyboard layouts.

2.5. Noise level and Sound profile

When compared to certain typical mechanical switches, the Cherry MX Low Profile switches operate more quietly. They produce sound when keys are pressed, but the sound is noticeably softer and less noticeable, making them an appropriate alternative for shared rooms and calmer surroundings.

Discover the magic of Cherry MX Low Profile switches in action! Watch this captivating video showcasing the smooth and responsive keypresses of these innovative switches. 

Explore our detailed blog post comparing various Cherry MX switches to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard.

Pros  Cons
  • Sleek and slim design
  • Smooth and consistent feel
  • Reduced actuation distance
  • Quiet sound profile
  • High durability
  • Long lifespan
  • High compatibility with a wide range of keycap sets
  • Limited tactile feedback
  • Limited availability in some markets
  • Higher cost

Overall, Cherry MX Low Profile switches are a great option for those looking for a sleek and pleasant typing experience since they have smooth actuation, quieter operation, and an attractive aesthetic.

3. Types of Cherry MX Low Profile Switches

There are three primary varieties of Cherry MX Low Profile switches, and each differs in terms of actuation force, such as Low-Profile Red, Low-Profile Speed, and Ultra Low-Profile Tactile.

Low-Profile Red

Low-Profile Red

Low-Profile Speed

Cherry Low-Profile Speed Switch

Ultra Low-Profile Tactile

Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Tactile 

Color Red Silver Bronze
Type Linear Linear Tactile
Operating Force Approximately 45 grams Approximately 45 grams Approximately 50 grams
Activation Point 1.2mm 1.0mm 1.2mm
Noise Level Relatively quiet; no tactile bump or audible click Relatively quiet; no tactile bump or audible click Relatively quiet; subtle tactile bump without an audible click
Best For Gaming and fast-paced typing tasks Gaming and fast-paced typing tasks Typing enthusiasts

3.1. Low-Profile Red

Tech Specs: 

  • Type: Cherry Low-Profile Red
  • Operation Force: Approximately 45 grams
  • Pre-Travel: 1.2 mm
  • Total Travel: 3.2 mm
  • Operation Life: 50 million keystrokes
  • Finger Strike Feeling: Smooth and effortless feel

    Cherry Low Profile Red Switch
    Cherry Low Profile Red Switch

For fans of typing and gaming, Cherry MX Low Profile Red switches offer a wonderful keyboard experience. The linear and smooth feel of the switches ensures a steady keystroke free of any tactile bumps or clicks. Additionally, the Cherry MX Low Profile Red switches make a quiet and discrete "thock" sound when activated, providing a quieter and more refined typing experience. 

One of the key highlights of Cherry MX Low-Profile Red switches is their light actuation force. With a lower actuation force compared to standard switches, users can register keystrokes with minimal effort. This feature allows for quick and effortless typing, making it popular among gamers and individuals who require rapid and precise key presses.

Moreover, the low actuation force, combined with the linear design, contributes to reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.

3.2. Low-Profile Speed

Tech Specs

  • Type: Cherry Low-Profile Speed
  • Operation Force: Approximately 45 grams
  • Pre-Travel: 1.0 mm
  • Total Travel: 3.2 mm
  • Operation Life: 50 million keystrokes
  • Finger Strike Feeling: Consistent and seamless feel
Cherry Low-Profile Speed Switch
Cherry Low-Profile Speed Switch

Cherry MX Low Profile Speed switches are a variant of Cherry's Low Profile switches, designed to offer an even faster and more responsive typing and gaming experience. These switches are part of the Speed series, known for their lightning-fast actuation and reduced travel distance.

Cherry MX Low Profile Speed switches also offer a constant keystroke without any tactile bump or auditory click because of their smooth and linear feel. These keyboards are ideal for extended typing sessions or professional use, as they offer a seamless typing experience. 

In addition, the Low Profile Speed switches produce a subtle "thock" sound, creating a more enjoyable and discreet typing experience.

3.3. Ultra Low Profile Tactile

Tech Specs

  • Type: Cherry MX Ultra Low-Profile Tactile
  • Operation Force: Approximately 50 grams
  • Pre-Travel: 0.8 mm
  • Total Travel: 1.8 mm
  • Operation Life:  50 million keystrokes
  • Finger Strike Feeling: Gentle and discernible tactile bump
Cherry Ultra Low Profile Tactile Switch
Cherry Ultra Low Profile Tactile Switch

CHERRY MX Ultra Low Profile switches feature a total height of only 3.5 mm and a travel distance of 1.8 mm, making them the slimmest switches offered by CHERRY. Geared towards equipping high-end laptops with mechanical keyboards, MX ULP not only provides durability but also delivers a distinct typing experience and responsive feedback during gaming.

The "Ultra Low Profile" aspect of these switches refers to their reduced height and slim profile, making them suitable for slim and compact keyboard designs. These switches are engineered to provide a sleek and modern appearance, adding to the aesthetics of keyboards with low-profile case designs.

The "Tactile" feature indicates that Cherry MX Ultra Low-Profile Tactile switches offer pleasing tactile feedback with a perceptible and moderate tactile bump during keypresses. These switches provide a snappy and pleasant typing experience, making them perfect for prolonged typing sessions or professional work. 

These switches are a good option for anyone looking for a quieter typing experience because they also make a reasonably soft and unobtrusive sound when activated.

4. Cherry MX low profile vs Cherry MX standard switches

The Cherry MX Low Profile switches have become famous for their thin and stylish design within their varied portfolio, while the Cherry MX Standard switches continue to be a go-to option for mechanical keyboard fans.

Cherry MX low profile vs Cherry MX standard switches
Cherry MX low profile vs Cherry MX standard switches
Cherry MX low profile switches Cherry MX standard switches
Spring Light Heavy
Stem Standardized cross-shaped stem  Standardized cross-shaped stem 
Height 11.9mm 18.5mm
Keycap Design Low-profile High-profile
Availability Popular and widely available Wide use and readily available
Price High price Low price

5. Cherry MX vs Gateron vs Kailh low-profile switches

With Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh being strong competitors, mechanical keyboard lovers are spoiled for choice when it comes to low-profile switches.

Cherry MX vs Gateron vs Kailh low-profile switches
Cherry MX vs Gateron vs Kailh low-profile switches
Cherry MX low-profile switches Gateron low-profile switches  Kailh low-profile switches
Height 11.9mm 11.5mm 11.5mm
Lifespan 100 million keystrokes 100 million keystrokes 60 million keystrokes
Customization and Keycap Compatibility Compatible with keycaps designed for Cherry MX switches Compatible with keycaps designed for Cherry MX switches Compatible with keycaps designed for Cherry MX switches
Sound test Soft and quiet sound Gentle "thock" sound Soft "thock" sound
Typing and Gaming Experience Smooth and linear typing experience Comfortable and speedy typing Tactile feel
Price High price Affordable price Low price

Whether you're a typing enthusiast or a gaming aficionado, this comprehensive guide will help you explore the world of low-profile switches. Elevate your keyboard experience and make the best decision for your keycaps.

6. Where to buy Cherry MX Low Profile switches?

Where to buy Cherry MX Low Profile switches?
Where to buy Cherry MX Low Profile switches?

There are several places where you can purchase Cherry MX Low Profile switches, including: 

  • Official Cherry MX Distributors: Check the official Cherry MX website for a list of accredited distributors and merchants who sell Cherry MX switches. 
  • Amazon: Amazon offers several benefits, such as a large range of Cherry MX switches, reliable vendors with user feedback, and Prime advantages like quick shipping, easy online purchasing, and increased product availability. 
  • Mechanical Keyboards Store: Cherry MX Low Profile switches are probably available from retailers with a focus on mechanical keyboards and related accessories. While some of these shops may operate just online, others may have physical locations.
  • Group Buys and Fan Forums: Occasionally, enthusiasts put together group buys for switches and other keyboard parts. Cherry MX Low Profile switches may be purchased by taking part in these group buys through communities like Reddit's r/mechmarket.

Always double-check the specific Cherry MX Low Profile Switch model you are purchasing. Cherry provides a variety of models, including Red, Speed, and Tactile. Before making a purchase, double-check that it is compatible with your keyboard and that you require the specified number of switches.

Ready to upgrade your typing and gaming experience with the best low-profile keyboards? Check out our top picks and find the perfect keyboard to suit your needs! 

Conclusion

Overall, the Best Cherry MX Low-Profile Switches have amazing traits and distinctive features. The Cherry MX Low Profile Switches are top-notch in terms of performance and versatility, whether you're using them for typing, gaming, or both. Whether you're a mechanical keyboard enthusiast or a professional, these switches offer an enhanced typing experience that keeps up with advancing technology.

FAQs

1. Does Cherry make low-profile switches?

Yes. Cherry manufactures low-profile switches. Cherry MX Low Profile switches have a sleeker design compared to their traditional counterparts. They are ideal for small and fashionable mechanical keyboards.

2. Are Cherry MX low-profile switches better for gaming?

Cherry MX low-profile switches may be ideal for gamers, but everyone has a different favorite type of switch. The smooth and quick actuation of linear variations like Cherry MX Low Profile Red and Speed switches makes them popular for gaming since they enable speedy keypresses and accurate in-game actions.

3. How tall is Cherry MX low-profile?

Cherry MX low-profile switches measure about 11.5mm from the bottom of the switch housing to the top of the stem. Keyboards that utilize these switches have a sleeker design because of their reduced height.

4. Are Cherry MX low-profile switches loud?

Compared to clicky switches such as Cherry MX Blue or Green, Cherry MX low-profile switches are generally quieter. These models produce a gentle and delicate "thock" sound when activated. 

5. Are Cherry MX low-profile switches comfortable?

Those who enjoy a smooth and consistent typing experience may find the Cherry MX low-profile switches to be quite comfortable. Linear switches, which don't have a tactile bump, can make typing smoother. Tactile switches, on the other hand, provide soft tactile feedback that can be helpful for gaming.

6. Are Cherry MX low-profile switches expensive?

The cost of Cherry MX low-profile switches may vary depending on the specific model and vendor. In the mechanical keyboard industry, Cherry MX switches, especially low-profile variations, are often reasonably priced.

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I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

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