Use code Thanks24 to donate 10% of your order value to charity (Nov 10th - 28th)
| Keyboard | Number of Keys | Price | Award |
| G. Skill Ripjaws KM780 MX Mechanical Keyboard
|
104 | $65.99 | Gaming |
| HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
|
87 | $69.99 | FPS pro |
| WASD Code V3
|
104/105-Key (full size), 87/88-Key (TKL) | $69.99 | Office |
| iKBC CD87
|
87 | $79.99 | Office |
| Ducky One 2 Mini
|
61 | $84 | Gaming |
| Vortexgear Cypher 65%
|
69 | $93 | Office, Gaming |
| Durgod Fusion
|
68 | $94.05 | Gaming, Office |
| Durgod Taurus K320 Mechanical Keyboard
|
87 | $94.05 | Gaming |
| Alienware AW310K
|
104 | $109.99 | Gaming |
| Fnatic miniSTREAK
|
87 | $132.67 | Award-winning industrial design |
| Cooler Master MK850 Mechanical Keyboard
|
87 | $153.67 | Gaming |
| Varmilo VA87M
|
108/87 | $159.71 | Gaming |
| Asus ROG Strix Flare
|
104 | $165.48 | Gaming |
| Corsair K70 RGB Mk.2 Mechanical Keyboard
|
104 | $169 | Gaming |
| Filco Majestouch Convertible 2 Wireless Keyboard
|
87 | $219.99 | Office, Gaming |
*Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
Varmilo VA87M keyboard is the best Cherry Red keyboard with a beautiful appearance. You can choose a lot of different versions such as Beijing Opera, Sea Melody, Sakura, and so on. The keyboards have coordinated the theme pretty well from the keycaps to the keyboard’s case.
Talk about the quality. Varmilo VA87M is a good pick for everyone who is looking for a high-quality keyboard with a good build. The material is sturdy and the PBT keycaps can last very long without the worry of fading legends.
Even though it has only white backlit, we can forget to focus on the detachable USB type-C. This type of design should be a trend among mechanical keyboards because it gives people a choice to replace the cable once it wears out, not throw the whole keyboard.
However, the Varmilo VA87M won’t meet professional gamers' requirements with quite high latency as high latency means disrupting connection which can heavily affect the final score of the game. Moreover, the keyboard does not provide people with key programming options which is quite boring for those who love exploring keyboards.
Another issue with this keyboard with Cherry MX Red will be the stands. They are weak and cannot withstand heavy strokes, so our advice is not to go too hard on the keyboard wherever you pull the stands out.
Related Articles
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
If you are looking for a good gaming keyboard with Cherry MX Red, we highly recommend you check out Ducky One 2 Mini keyboard. Even though the whole keyboard is made of plastic, the overall quality is great enough so the keyboard can be with you for a pretty long time.
Ducky One 2 Mini provides alternative keycaps such as a zodiac spacebar. Hence, you can replace them to have a refreshing look every time. Moreover, the combination of Red and Black is pretty cool while the general design is very neat and functional. It also comes with a detachable cable, which is a big plus.
About the firmware of Ducky One 2 Mini, one word is enough to describe it - excellent. You don’t need additional software to change the RGB effects or record macro. But, it can also be a downside since it takes too much time to grasp the firmware, compared to using the software.
Since this Cherry MX Red keyboard has a compact size. You will need to use a lot of combination keys to make up for the lack of keys. That’s when you can see how wonderful the side-printed legends are. With them, you can find the right keys with just a look. Therefore, you won’t have to memorize a lot of the combinations or look them up every time.
If you take interest in the Ducky One 2 Mini, why don’t you find out more in the below video?
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
Durgod Taurus K320 keyboard is the best simple Cherry MX Red switch keyboard. The design is aimed to be simple and neat so it’s highly recommended for people who enjoy a clean setup. Moreover, the overall quality of the keyboard is super awesome as the construction is very good and stable.
Furthermore, the double-shot PBT keycaps are exceptional when it comes to durability. It’s true that the buttery smooth typing comes mostly from the high-end Cherry MX Red switches. The smart design of the keycaps is also a part of it.
Even though it has a simple outer look, the Durgod Taurus K320's features are not simple at all. You are allowed to program the keys freely, which is quite necessary for gamers or designers as some designed shortcuts will certainly accelerate the efficiency.
The Durgod K320 also has some built-in media hotkeys for people to maximize the media experience. Besides, the type-C cable can be put in and out which is very convenient for bringing around or finding a replacement.
However, this simple Cherry MX Red keyboard is truly so simple. Compared to other gaming mechanical keyboards, this Cherry Red keyboard has fewer special features. One of the lacking features is the backlighting effects, therefore, it’s not a good option for people who loves the color party.
But, the biggest issue is related to the high latency. This means the transmission between your keyboard and the main processor can be slowed down sometimes. This’s worth putting in mind if you are a highly competitive gamer.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
If we have to pick out the most insane keyboard in this list of the best Cherry MX Red keyboards, it would be G. Skill Ripjaws KM780 MX gaming keyboard. This keyboard have received many ‘Yes’ from keyboard enthusiasts and pro gamers and things happen for a reason. With an aluminum plate at the core, the G. Skill Ripjaws KM780 keyboard is well-built to survive the test of time.
This gaming keyboard with Cherry MX Red switches has almost functions that are desirable for a mechanical keyboard. The USB cable is detachable and you can type up to 6 keys at once thanks to the anti-ghosting and N-key rollover.
Moreover, it equips with many extra functions such as media jacks, a mouse cable holder (to prevent the mouse cable get in your way), and a detachable wrist rest. This Cherry Red keyboard is also fully programmable with recording macro, 16.8 million RGB lighting effects, and key mapping. In addition, you can easily access the programming profile by the onboard button in the top row.
If you get bored with the all-black appearance, you can change the keycaps to the special gaming keycaps that come with the pack. Maybe this much added stuff is the reason for the very high price. Besides, the keyboard is so large that it will consume a lot of space.
Do you want to witness how awesome the G. Skill Ripjaws KM870 is? Let’s find out in the video below from G. Skill.
Related Articles
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
Cooler Master MK850 mechanical keyboard is another Cherry MX Red keyboard with many cool functions. Since the keyboard is on a high-end scale, the overall design gives out a luxurious feeling. There are two precision wheels where you can turn up and down the volume and dial in the DPI in one go. You can also use the wheels to adjust the color effects easily.
Cooler Master MK850 does not stop at that. This keyboard includes dedicated multimedia keys to let users quickly control the media effects. However, despite the purpose, we think that the media keys are somewhat hard to use.
If you want to customize the lighting, the built-in software will allow you to do the job pretty simple. In addition, the Aimpad technology is truly a breakthrough. By combining IR sensors and mechanical switches, it successfully mimics the analog control on the gaming gear. Thanks to that, with just some buttons, you can turn the Cooler Master MK 850’s WASD block into an analog stick.
Since the keyboard is quite large, to make things look better on your table, under the keyboard there is a 3-way cable route. This is for putting the cable in the exact direction you want, instead of having the cable run around the place. Moreover, this gaming keyboard with Cherry MX Red has a removable wrist rest. The material is soft enough to place your hands on comfortably.
The problem with this keyboard is it requires technical setup before use. This can be quite troublesome to people who are not familiar with the technology. So, make sure you read the keyboard manual carefully when first purchasing this keyboard.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The next best Cherry MX Red keyboard we want to honorably mention is HyperX Alloy FPS keyboard. The design is sleek and cool with an attached media key row. Moreover, the overall build from the outer case to the inside frame is amazing and solid with plastic materials, making the durability believable to be pretty high.
This keyboard only has red backlighting so in a way it’s quite suitable for a Cherry MX Red switch keyboard. The cable is attachable and there is an anti-ghosting feature that helps you be able to press as many keys as you want. At the same time, the N-key rollover allows each key to be scanned individually and displayed on the monitor.
Of course, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro keyboard also has minor problems. Firstly, the keycaps are pretty thin so they could be worn out faster than other double-shot keycaps. But, you could tackle the problem by changing to other keycaps such as PBT keycaps or artisan resin keycaps. If you need a suggestion of where to buy the replacement keycaps, how about visiting our article here?
The second issue is the large keycaps such as ‘enter’ or ‘spacebar’ are somehow squeaky when being typed on. You can fix the issue by stabilizing the keycaps to reduce unwanted noise.
When it comes to the biggest downside of this good keyboard, we think it must be the lack of customization software for the backlit effects and the key programming. You can change the red backlit with the 6 built-in modes and that’s it. No further effect changes. You also cannot customize the shortcuts and hotkeys as you like. Thus, the only option is to ask for help from special key mapping software.
Related Articles
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
iKBC CD87 keyboard is preferable for those who need a Cherry MX Red keyboard. The keyboard has a simple design with an all-black appearance. However, you can bring more color to the keyboard by altering some colorful keycaps that come together. And, all the keycaps are double-shot PBT. This means there will be two PBT layers pressed together to make the keycap case, enhancing the durability of the plastic keycaps.
This keyboard also has a 100% anti-ghosting and N-key rollover function, which is helpful for increasing your typing speed. To be clearer, regarding the keyboard without this function, you cannot type 6 numbers at the same time and have them all appear on the monitor. It may appear only one or two numbers at much. However, the iKBC CD87 keyboard allows you to type 6 keys at once with each key registered successfully.
In addition, this keyboard is really great to type on comfortably. Besides the good-quality Cherry MX Red key switches, the keyboard design, for instance, the width between 2 keycaps or the width of a keycap, is well-thought to bring out the best experience.
Nonetheless, the iKBC CD87 has only attachable cable so you won’t have a choice to make a change. But, under the keyboard, there is a keyboard route that allows you to lead the cable direction to be on the left or right, which is convenient to tidy your working desk.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The next best keyboard with Cherry MX Red switch is Corsair K70 RGB Mk.2 keyboard. At a first glance, we have to agree that the design of this keyboard is outstanding and luxurious. Since the frame is from expensive aluminum, the Corsair K70 keyboard is heavy and solid which will be strong enough to withstand rough use.
The USB pass-through gate allows people to plug in and out the cable. Moreover, there is a super soft wrist rest that comes with this keyboard, where we can place our hands for comfort.
The RGB effects on this Cherry MX Red keyboard are superb with 16.8 million colors. Furthermore, the Corsair iCue software allows you to customize the lighting effect even for each individual key. This maximizes the RGB experience as you can have the freedom to play with colors.
Corsair K70 also has dedicated media keys, which a good Cherry Red gaming keyboard should have. With this extra function, you can easily control the sound volume and media effects.
However, the ABS keycaps are a big letdown as ABS tends to be flimsy and wear out faster than other materials. Moreover, pressing the keys sometimes emits a high-pitched noise that is quite disturbing. But, besides that, Corsair K70 is still a good mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX Red at a good price.
How about taking a closer look at this elegant keyboard by watching this video?
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
We cannot forget Vortexgear Cypher 65% mechanical keyboard when talking about the best Cherry MX Red keyboards. The design is simple and old-school but this keyboard is very powerful to perform multi-tasks. It also has a detachable type-C cable and a special double spacebar.
This split spacebar is extremely useful for a compact Cherry MX Red keyboard such as Vortexgear Cypher. The reason is you can combine the left or right spacebar with other keys to create multiple necessary key combinations. This makes up for the lack of a function row in a standard layout keyboard.
About the keycap, it’s nice to see this keyboard use high-quality PBT materials. Moreover, laser printing will prevent the fading process of the legends, which will happen naturally after thousand strokes from our hands.
Another good aspect of this budget Cherry MX Red keyboard is its compatibility with a lot of different operating systems such as Windows X, Mac OS, and Linux. Remember that you will need a Window system to upgrade the keyboard firmware.
In contrast, this keyboard does not have a ‘delete’ key, which is expectable as a 65% keyboard. However, this can be very inconvenient to people who are used to using the ‘delete’ button. Apart from that, Vortexgear Cypher 65% keyboard’s backlighting is not as vivid as other RGB keyboards. In the normal room lighting condition, the dull lighting is even more obvious.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
Filco Majestouch Convertible 2 mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX Red is a strong keyboard for anyone who looks for a wireless mechanical keyboard. You can switch between the Bluetooth connection or the USB port based on the connected devices. What makes this Cherry MX Red keyboard stand out is the stable Bluetooth connection. Compared to other wireless keyboards, the Bluetooth gate is reliable with minimum delay.
Moreover, thanks to that, the Filco Majestouch Convertible 2 keyboard can even be used for TV, tablet, or even smartphone, providing that the devices have Bluetooth. It’s also compatible with many operating systems so you don’t need to purchase many keyboards for different devices.
The overall build is sturdy and trustworthy. The look is simple and neat, suitable for minimalist keyboard users. But, you can still find the extra media hotkeys on this keyboard to access quickly the media function. There are also big rubber feet to ensure the stability of the keyboard.
On the downside, the Filco Majestouch Convertible 2 keyboard uses ABS keycaps. The price is quite high while there are no RGB effects. But, if you prefer a minimalist keyboard, this keyboard with Cherry MX Red switches is an excellent option.
This video from Biotfanime explores the Filco keyboard thoroughly, so we suggest you watch it if you consider purchasing the keyboard.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
WASD Code V3 Cherry MX Silent Red keyboard has a simple design with the keys are put neatly on a bland case. Besides, the keyboard comes with a white backlit, which is quite nice for people who work under low-light conditions. Moreover, the USB type-C cable is detachable, hence, you can replace it with a new one if it stops working.
This keyboard is designed to be portable so the overall weight is quite light. Therefore, there is a rubber pad under the keyboard to prevent slipping due to heavy typing. In addition, this silent keyboard with Cherry MX Red is built with a 5-way route. This means you can alter the direction of the cable under the keyboard so your working desk can be neat and clean.
With the WASD Code V3 keyboard, you can choose between an aluminum case or a plastic case. More than the case, you are allowed to choose from the switches to the keycaps in order to customize an ideal keyboard. For this option, you need to visit the WASD website to place an order since other sellers like Amazon only have pre-built keyboards.
If you want to remap some keys on the keyboard layout, for instance, change the rarely-use ‘cap locks’ to the more frequently-use ‘ESC’, the WASD Code V3 keyboard allows you to do that easily. This is undeniably a good function as altering the layout to your use will boost the overall working efficiency.
However, the minor issue of WASD Code V3 is the use of ABS keycaps. To learn more about why we prefer PBT keycaps over ABS, you can visit this article here for a full explanation.
Well, it’s true that WASD Code V3 is quite expensive but a lot of people still enjoy it. You could find more about the reasons in the video here.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
In this list of the best Cherry MX Red switch keyboards, Durgod Fusion 65% keyboard has one of the most distinctive design. The color scheme and the highlighting features have a retro vibe just like a radio song in the 80s. So, it’s highly suitable for those who want a unique keyboard with a nostalgic feeling.
The Durgod Fusion 65% keyboard can be used in both wired and wireless connections, which increases flexibility. As a compact keyboard, you can bring this Cherry MX Red keyboard around comfortably, on a trip, or on your sofa. Moreover, the guaranteed 40-day battery is such a huge amount to use comfortably without thinking of recharging all the time.
Another great aspect of this funky Cherry MX Red keyboard is the high-quality PBT keycaps. Hence, you won’t have to think of replacing the keycaps soon except if you want to install some artisan ones. Moreover, typing on them feels awesomely great as it’s buttery smooth thanks to the Cherry MX Red switches and the meticulous design of this keyboard.
For people who are game lovers, Durgod Fusion with Cherry MX Red is not a bad option. 1000Hz polling rate is a good number for competitive games such as FPS or intense rhythm games like OSU. Moreover, with the extra multifunctional media keys, you can control the media quickly with just a few steps.
On the other hand, this silent Cherry MX Red keyboard does not have supporting software. That is why you will need to download other programs to aid this keyboard if necessary. Aside from that, Durgod Fusion does not provide RGB lighting effects.
Related Articles
Asus ROG Strix Flare is the best Cherry MX keyboard for gaming (Source: Amazon)
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The Asus ROG Strix Flare is one of the ideal keyboards with red switches for serious gamers who want their setup to make a statement. It features fully customizable RGB LEDs behind each keycap, along with a cool underglow that syncs with other Asus Aura Sync devices. This full-size keyboard includes a number pad and dedicated multimedia controls for easy video playback and volume adjustments.
Besides, it allows on-the-fly macro recording and comes with a detachable wrist rest for added comfort. With a pass-through USB port for connecting other devices and adjustable rear feet, it enhances your gaming experience. The keyboard also features fully programmable keys, letting you create a unique logo.
Fnatic miniSTREAK is one of the best cherry mx red keyboard (Source: Think Computers)
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The Fnatic miniSTREAK is a compact and stylish gaming keyboard that combines premium features for the ultimate typing experience. It boasts silent Cherry MX Red switches, known for their precision and durability, lasting over 50 million keystrokes. With full RGB backlighting, you can enjoy 8 lighting modes and dazzling 16.8 million color options, making customization easy with the free OP software.
Its award-winning design includes a sleek aluminum build, detachable USB cable, and a slim profile. The keyboard is lightweight (704g) yet very functional. It features well-placed rubber supports and adjustable side legs that only move when needed. Designed by Func, it has a minimalistic look while providing impressive functionality, making it a great choice for users seeking both style and performance.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
This keyboard stands out for its Bluetooth wireless connectivity, allowing you to eliminate messy wires and easily move it around your space. It runs on 2 AA batteries that can last for months due to an auto-off feature, and it also offers a USB connection option. The keys are built with Cherry MX Red switches, providing a smooth typing experience.
While it comes in a tenkeyless design with handy multimedia shortcuts, it lacks backlit legends, which could be a drawback in low light. Although it’s pricier than wired models, its quality makes it worth the investment.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is a well-regarded entry-level mechanical keyboard available with Cherry Red, Blue, or Brown switches. Many users prefer the linear Red switches for their quick response. It comes in a full-size 104-key or a compact tenkeyless 87-key version, which has a sleek design. The keyboard features red LED backlighting with six lighting modes, and customization is possible through HyperX's Ngenuity software for macros and alternate layouts like DVORAK.
The standout feature of the best Cherry MX keyboard for gaming is its compact, sturdy design. With an exposed steel frame and a detachable braided USB cable, it offers durability. The 87-key version is also space-saving, using the F6 to F12 keys as media shortcuts. However, the keycaps are relatively thin and may wear out faster, and some wider keys might rattle.
Alienware AW310K keyboards with Cherry MX switches (Source: Amazon)
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The Alienware AW310K is a compact keyboard featuring Cherry MX Red switches, known for their quick and gentle response. Each key has adjustable backlighting and is fully programmable, with N-key rollover for exceptional performance. The soft feel of the keys ensures fast triggering, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a smooth typing or gaming experience.
These keyboards with Cherry MX switches feature customizable single-color backlighting and a slim, ergonomic design for comfort. Built from durable 5000 Series aluminum, it ensures reliability during use. With an integrated USB pass-through and dedicated volume keys, it offers added convenience, making it a great choice for gamers and casual users alike.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The keyboard features RGB lighting and an optional wrist rest, available in both full-size and tenkeyless designs, with the full-size option complementing its overall look. It has a lightweight yet sturdy base with a stylish brushed aluminum finish. The RGB light bar and customizable backlighting offer 16 effects, all adjustable without software.
However, the multimedia keys are abundant, extending to the arrow keys, which can complicate tasks like volume adjustment. This red keyboard gaming features a slim bezel, but its optional wrist rest can take up some desk space. However, having wrist support is important to prevent issues like carpal tunnel syndrome. While it’s durable, the build quality could feel more premium for the price, and the documentation is a bit confusing.
Features:
|
|
Pros:
|
Cons:
|
The G.Skill Ripjaws KM780 MX Mechanical Keyboard is designed for convenience and customization. It features dedicated media keys for easy control, complete with an LED volume display. Users can switch between three on-board profiles and use 6 macro keys for quick commands. Plus, it includes 10 extra bright red keycaps, making it easy to find the most important keys while gaming or working!
The standout feature is the durable Cherry MX Red switches, which can endure up to 50 million keystrokes. However, the keycaps are a bit thin and might wear out sooner. Additionally, the keyboard does take up quite a bit of space on the desk, which could be a drawback for some. The wrist rest can be removed, but the metallic side accents can’t, which might be a downside. Still, it offers great value if there's enough space for it.
Cherry MX is the very first mechanical switch brand so they indeed set the first stone for the whole market. By categorizing each switch's feature with each color, you can recognize the function of a switch right away just by looking at the color.
Red switches refer to lightweight linear switches. Therefore, most of the switches with the Red in the name won’t produce tactile feedback and will be around 45-50 gf.
When it comes to gaming, linear switches are way more suitable than tactile or clicky switches. Therefore, Red switches are one of the best options for your mechanical gaming keyboard.
it won’t slow down your typing speed and there won’t be any ‘click’ sound that disturb your focus. Furthermore, by practicing touch typing enough, typing accuracy won’t be a problem at all.
They are pretty nice to type on since the feels are smooth and light. However, since there is no tactile bump, you won’t recognize immediately whether you have successfully registered the keys.
But, this is not a big problem for pro typists so our final conclusion is that Red switches are pretty nice for typing experience.
Yes, they are. Programming requires high accuracy and speed. Even though Red switches do not aid you pretty much in the accuracy category, no switch type can beat Red switches in terms of speed and smoothness.
Red switches offer smooth keystrokes, ideal for gaming and typing (Source: XDA Developers)
Cherry MX Reds are popular non-clicky switches known for their quietness and smooth linear travel, making them excellent for gaming. Unlike Cherry Blue switches, they don’t have a distinct clicking sound, but they do make a noticeable noise, which is quieter than a traditional membrane keyboard.
With a light actuation force of just 0.45 Newtons, Cherry Reds allow for quick key presses and provide important tactile feedback, enhancing performance during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, Cherry MX Red switches are great for programming because they offer fast and smooth keystrokes. While they may not enhance accuracy as much as other switches, their quick response makes them a favorite for those who value speed in their coding tasks.
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation force | 45 gf |
| Total travel distance | 4mm |
| Pre-travel distance | 2mm |
| Noise level | Quiet |
Keychron's experiments suggest that Red switches are linear switches that provide a classic typing feel. Both Cherry Red and Gateron Red switches have the same actuation force and travel distance. However, many users find that Gateron Reds feel lighter and smoother, making them more comfortable to type on. Some people do notice that Cherry Reds can feel a bit scratchy in comparison, although the difference is usually quite subtle. Sound-wise, they are pretty average - not as deep as some other switches, but still decent for general use.
Gateron Red switches are a solid choice for both gaming and typing. They offer a smooth, lightweight feel that makes gaming enjoyable, and for those upgrading from rubber dome keyboards, they’re an excellent budget option. Priced around $5.23 for ten, they beat Cherry MX Red at about $9.15 for the same number.
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation force | 45 gf |
| Total travel distance | 4mm |
| Pre-travel distance | 2.0 mm |
| Noise level | Quiet |
Gateron Optical Red switches are an exciting choice for gamers and typists alike. They use optical technology, making them 1.5 times faster and smoother than Cherry MX Red switches. This linear switch provides a seamless press without bumps or clicks, resulting in a quieter typing experience - ideal for office environments.
Priced at $169.90 for 10 switches, they reflect Gateron's quick adaptation to new tech. In comparison, Cherry MX Red switches are more budget-friendly at about $9.15 for the same number. If you're interested in optical switches, check out our article to learn more! We cover the different types of optical switches, how they work, and other useful information. It’s a great way to get all the details you need!
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation force | 45 gf |
| Total travel distance | 3.6±0.3 mm |
| Pre-travel distance | 1.8±0.4 mm |
| Noise level | Medium |
Kailh Box Red switches are a popular and affordable choice, priced at $6.28 for ten. Known for their sturdy design, these switches feature a protective box that helps keep out dust and moisture, enhancing durability. While they offer stable typing, the sound can be quite thin and clacky, which might not appeal to everyone.
Users often find them too light, leading to frequent bottoming out and a less comfortable experience. Compared to Cherry MX Red switches, which cost around $9.15 for ten, Kailh Box Reds are a budget option, but those seeking richer audio might want to look elsewhere.
Kailh Box vs Gateron switches are both great alternatives to Cherry MX switches, but they have some differences. We’ve put together a detailed analysis comparing them in various factors, so you can read more to understand how they differ!
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation force | 47 gf |
| Total travel distance | 4mm |
| Pre-travel distance | 2.1mm |
| Noise level | Quiet |
Outemu Red switches are a great budget option for gamers and typists alike. Priced lower than Cherry MX Red switches, they still offer a solid performance, although some users might notice a bit of scratchiness. The sound is deeper and thockier, especially from the spacebar, giving it a unique character for the price.
They’re smooth and comfortable, making them enjoyable for daily use, especially if you prefer lighter switches. While they can’t quite match the premium feel of Cherry MX Reds, Outemu Reds are a fantastic upgrade from rubber dome switches, making them a smart choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing too much quality.
To learn more about the differences between Outemu Red and Cherry MX Switch Reds, check out our article here. It provides a clear comparison to help you understand them better!
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation force | 44 gf |
| Total travel distance | 3.9mm |
| Pre-travel distance | 2.0mm |
| Noise level | Not silent, an audible click/clack |
HyperX Red switches are a great option if you’re looking for a lightweight linear switch. They have a shorter travel distance than Cherry MX Red switches, which many users appreciate for quicker responses. Some people find HyperX Reds to be smoother and more comfortable, especially with the added 100% anti-ghosting feature.
Besides, HyperX Linear Switches have 5 pins, making them compatible with most hot-swappable keyboards, so you can use them even if you don’t have a HyperX keyboard. These switches also feature half-wall stems, which help keep the keycaps stable during quick taps or intense gaming. This means you get a smooth and reliable experience, no matter how fast you type or play!
However, the downside is that they have a shorter lifespan - 80 million keystrokes compared to Cherry MX’s 100 million. In terms of cost, HyperX Reds are more expensive, priced at around $190.99 for ten switches, while Cherry MX switches are about $9.15 for ten.
| Type | Linear |
| Actuation force | 45 gf |
| Total travel distance | 3.5 mm |
| Pre-travel distance | 1.2 mm |
| Noise level | Light and quiet |
Razer Optical Red switches are a fantastic choice for gamers, designed to deliver top-notch performance. Thanks to their optical-mechanical design, these switches offer an incredibly fast response time of just 0.2 ms, making every keystroke feel instantaneous.
The unique stem design and key stabilizer bar enhance stability and balance, which is crucial during intense gaming sessions. Compared to Cherry MX Red switches, which are also great but slower, Razer Optical Reds give you that extra edge.
In the final words, we believe Cherry MX Red switches are excellent linear switches that are flexible for many uses. It’s the best for gaming and also a great key switch for typing in general. Furthermore, what makes Cherry MX Red truly outperform other Red switches may lie inside the German meticulous design that allows the switches to be both stable and extremely durable.
As you have come this far with us, we hope you are now able to decide if Cherry MX Red switches are the best choice for you. If so, we also hope that this list of the best Cherry MX Red keyboards can aid you to some degree.
Thanks for reading!
The best gaming keyboards with Cherry MX Red switches are G. Skill Ripjaws KM780 MX, HyperX Alloy FPS Pro, and Ducky One 2 Mini.
The reasons why keyboards with Cherry MX red are normally high relate to different factors such as materials, technology, and marketing. However, we think the main factor is the price of Cherry MX Red. As the Cherry switches are of top quality, their prices are also at the top compared to other Red switches.
You can find some budget-friendly keyboards with Cherry MX Red switches among these keyboards, namely Durgod Taurus K320, iKBC CD87, and Vortexgear Cypher 65%.
If you can afford a good keyboard with Cherry MX Red switches, we think you should go for it because the typing quality and durability of Cherry MX switches are truly phenomenal. A Cherry MX Red keyboard will be a good investment.
Keyboard Number of Keys Price Award G. Skill Ripjaws KM780 MX Mechanical Keyboard 104 $65.99 Gaming HyperX Alloy FPS Pro 87 $69.99 FPS pro WASD Code V3 104/105-Key (full size), 87/88-Key (TKL) $69.99 Office iKBC CD87 87 $79.99 Office Ducky One 2 Mini 61 $84 Gaming Vortexgear Cypher 65% 69 $93 Office, Gaming Durgod Fusion […]
Topre keyboards have long been revered by enthusiasts for their superior tactile feedback, smooth keystrokes, and exceptional build quality. As we move into 2024, the Topre keyboard market continues to evolve, with manufacturers offering a wider range of models to cater to diverse preferences and needs. This comprehensive guide presents the 10+ Best Topre Keyboards […]
Known for their tactile feedback and relatively quiet operation, Brown switches strike a balance between the linear and clicky switches. However, the debate surrounding their suitability for gaming or typing is a hot topic among keyboard enthusiasts. Are brown switches good for gaming or typing, or do they fall short in either domain? Let's delve […]
Cherry MX Brown switches are renowned for their tactile feel and quiet operation, making them a favorite among typists and gamers alike. Keyboards equipped with Cherry MX Brown switches deliver a perfect balance of comfort and performance, providing excellent feedback without the loud clicking noise typical of other mechanical switches. Explore our selection to find […]
Cherry MX set the standard in the mechanical keyboard world with their German-engineered precision and range of tactile experiences with each color variant offering unique feedback. Among these, Cherry MX Blue switches are particularly celebrated for their tactile and auditory feedback. Unlike their quieter Red and Brown counterparts, the Blue switches provide a clicky sound […]
