Romer-G vs Cherry MX Switches: Which One Is Better for you?
Keycaps 101
Posted by:
carson-rutz
Jun 4, 2024
In the vast world of mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent names have attracted interest: Cherry MX and Romer-G. Each of these technologies offers a unique set of advantages and typing experiences. Are you wondering which type will be most suitable? Let us dig into the Romer-G vs Cherry MX Switches: Which One Is Better for you?
Romer-G vs Cherry MX Switches: What are the differences?
It seems that Cherry MX has long become the irreplaceable standard in choosing switches for mechanical keyboards. However, the market also witnessed the appearance of many brands with unique and creative options. One of them, Logitech, has created an impression in the gaming community with its Romer-G switches. Let's take a deeper look at Romer-G switches versus Cherry MX switches.
An Overview of Cherry MX Switches
Cherry MX switches, the world's oldest mechanical keyboard switches, are widely acclaimed for their exceptional variety, durability, and superior tactile feedback. Beloved by gamers, typists, and keyboard enthusiasts, they are considered among the best in the industry.
Cherry MX switches come in several different types, each switch identified by a specific color. Below are the 3 most typical types that you can choose.
Cherry MX Brown
Cherry MX Brown switches are tactile switches. This type of switch is known for its ability to provide satisfying tactile feedback without creating a clicking sound. With a moderate force of 55g, they provide a comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue over long periods of time. This makes them a great choice for those looking for a flexible, comfortable, and quiet typing experience.
Cherry MX Red
Cherry MX Red switches are switches with smooth linear keystrokes, causing no impact or sound upon contact. Featuring linear switches, these switches have a light force of 45g, providing fast, uninterrupted typing and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming.
Cherry MX Blue
Cherry MX Blue, a clicky switch, is known for providing clear touch feedback and a unique clicking sound. This feature helps users know exactly when a key is pressed and when it is not. Besides, they also have moderate impact force (60g), providing a balanced typing experience. Therefore, this type of switch is suitable for both typing and gaming enthusiasts, especially those who like its unique feel and sound.
Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
An Overview of Logitech Romer-G Switches
Logitech Romer-G Switch is a mechanical keyboard switch developed by famous technology company Logitech. They were first produced in 2014. Logitech offers a range of mechanical switches that offer different options to suit your style. Besides delivering performance, quality and reliability, Logitech G keyboards are the choice of the world's top esports athletes. With its outstanding features, Logitech is often placed on the scale with Razer to determine which gaming giant will take the leading position.
Romer-G Tactile
Romer-G Tactile with original configuration is the first product of cooperation between Logitech and Ormon. The highlight of the Romer-G Tactile is its ability to provide unique touch feedback without creating loud noise. With an actuation point of only 1.5mm and actuation force of about 50g, this type of switch provides a tactile feel. light and noticeable when typing, creating a smooth and fluid typing experience. This is a great choice for those who require easy operation, ideal for competitive gaming and PFS gaming. In addition, Romer-G Tactile is also designed for high durability with the ability to withstand millions of keystrokes.
Romer-G Linear
Romer-G Linear has a light actuation force of 45g and actuation point of 1.5mm, so it provides a typing experience without touch feeling and clicky sound. At the same time, with a full stroke of about 3.2mm, it ensures stability and solidity during use. Therefore, it is very suitable for double taps, continuous key presses without interruption as well as quick response. These optimized features make it suitable for those who want a smooth and quiet typing experience while ensuring performance, especially those who play action games.
Logitech GX Blue
Logitech GX Blue with actuation force (60g) and actuation point (1.9mm) delivers clear clicking sounds and realistic tactile feedback like traditional gaming switches. Besides, the tactile feeling not only makes key pressing flexible but also helps users clearly identify when the key has been activated. This makes GX Blue a suitable choice both for passionate gamers and those whose jobs require precision when typing. However, many people believe that GX Blue is inferior to Cherry MX Blue in terms of overall quality.
Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
Romer-G and Cherry MX Switches are both popular in the switch world and both offer linear, tactile and clicky switches. To choose which type is better, let's go to the direct confrontation of Roman G Tactile vs Cherry MX brown; Romer-G Linear vs Cherry MX Red; Logitech GX Blue vs Cherry MX Blue.
Roman G Tactile vs Cherry MX Brown
Romer G Tactile
Romer GL Tactile
Logitech GX Brown
Cherry MX Brown
Actuation Type
Tactile
Tactile
Tactile
Tactile
Actuation Force
50gf
50gf
60gf
55gf
Actuation point
1.5mm
1.5mm
1.9mm
2mm
Total travel distance
3.2mm
3.2mm
4mm
4mm
Sound
Light and clear
Quiet bump sound
Small "bump" sound
Small "bump" sound
Typing & Gaming
Suitable for both gaming and typing
Suitable for both gaming and typing
Suitable for both gaming and typing
Suitable for both gaming and typing
Romer-G Tactile switches offer a discernible tactile bump and have a lower travel distance compared to certain Cherry MX switch variants. The actuation force for Romer-G Tactile is a light 50gf, and many users appreciate these switches for their speed and responsiveness.
Cherry MX Brown switches are popular for providing tactile feedback without excessive noise. They strike a balance between responsiveness and quietness, making them suitable for both gaming and typing. The actuation force for Cherry MX Brown is 55gf, slightly heavier than the Romer-G Tactile.
When deciding between these types of Romer G switches vs Cherry switches, both options provide a tactile experience with relatively low noise levels. To clarify, Logitech's switches probably feel similar to Cherry MX Brown switches with an O-ring installed. It's more like pressing on a flexible surface than a standard mechanical switch, which enhances the typing experience for users.
Romer-G Linear switches promise a faster response and lighter feedback compared to their tactile counterpart. They have a smooth feel during the keypress, making them comfortable for both gaming and typing. The actuation point of Romer-G Linear switches is 1.5mm, which is shorter than the 2mm actuation point of the popular Cherry MX Red switches.
Cherry MX Red switches are a common sight in many mechanical keyboards. As linear switches, they lack the tactile bump or audible click found in other switch types. With a light actuation force of 45gf, Cherry MX Red switches are suitable for both gaming and office environments. These switches provide a sharp typing feel and are relatively quiet compared to some other mechanical switch options.
If you prefer a softer typing feel and a smoother keypress, the Romer-G Linear might be your choice. On the other hand, if you want a sharp and responsive typing experience without the tactile bump, the Cherry MX Red switches could be a solid option. Consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision.
Both provide a pleasant typing experience with a distinctive clicking feel and distinct "clicking" sound. However, Roman G Clicky has a sensitive clicky feel and strong clicking sound, providing a more unpleasant experience. Meanwhile, Cherry MX Blue delivers both tactile and audio feedback that is sharper, clicker and more satisfying.
The Romer-G clicky and Cherry MX Blue have very similar specifications. If there is, there is only a really small difference in the actuation point when the Romer-G clicky actuation point is 1.9mm and the Cherry MX Blue is 2mm. Overall, in terms of parameters, both types probably have similar experiences. But in reality, Romer-G clicky is just a rebranded Kailh switch (Cherry MX imitation brand), so its experience is really quite sad compared to the original (Cherry MX Blue).
Overall, it's hard to choose whether Romer-G Switches vs Cherry MX linear switches or tactile switches are better. Both do well in terms of delivering an optimal and satisfying user experience. Therefore, the final choice will depend on your personal preferences. However, if you are using Cherry MX Blue and want to try the Roman G Clicky experience, this idea is not recommended. Roman G Clicky isn't bad but it's not good enough compared to Cherry MX Blue.
Romer G Low-profile vs Cherry MX Low-profile
Romer GL Clicky
Romer GL Linear
Romer GL Tactile
Cherry MX Low-profile
Actuation Type
Clicky
Linear
Tactile
Linear
Actuation Force
60gf
45gf
50gf
45gf
Actuation point
1.9mm
1.5mm
1.5mm
1.2mm
Key Travel Distance
4mm
3.2mm
3.2mm
3.2mm
Sound
Clicky
Smooth and silent sound
Soft "thump" or "tick" sound
Smooth and quiet sound
Typing & Gaming
More suitable for typing
More suitable for gaming
More suitable for gaming
Suitable for both gaming and typing
Romer-G Low-profile switches were designed by Logitech to replicate the tactile feel and feedback of Cherry MX Brown switches, but in a low-profile form factor. These Romer-G switches offer a high-placed tactility and a dampened sound compared to their Cherry MX Brown counterparts. They are known for being fast and responsive, making them a compelling option for users seeking a tactile experience in a more compact design.
Cherry MX Low-profile switches are part of the wider Cherry MX family, but with a shorter key travel distance. Despite the reduced height, these switches maintain the same switch characteristics, such as linear, tactile, or clicky. Cherry MX Low-profile switches are often used in slim and compact keyboards, providing a balance between typing comfort and space-saving design.
Both these types of Romer-G switches vs Cherry switches have their respective strengths. The Romer-G option offers a unique tactile feel, while the Cherry MX Low-profile provides compatibility with a wider range of slim keyboard designs.
Romer-G Switches vs Cherry MX – Which one you should go for?
Romer-G Switches
Cherry MX Switches
Accessibility
Limited to Logitech keyboards
Available on many keyboards from various brands
Durability
Rated for 70 million keystrokes
Rated for >100 million keystrokes (Cherry Low-profile)
Versatility
Less versatile
Offers a wide range of different switch types
Pricing
Generally more expensive
Suitable price
Typing Performance
Smoother, faster, quieter, but less satisfying and responsive
Not significantly slower, better typing feeling
Gaming Performance
Faster, more responsive, better lighting effects
Slower response, weaker light
Sound Test
Dampened sound that reduces bottom-out noise
Crisp, clear sound
Uniqueness
Proprietary stem design, centered LED, exclusive partnership with Logitech
High-quality and consistent production, wide variety of switch types, standard stem design
Romer-G switches deliver unique, quiet, fast responses and have great lighting effects. This is the perfect and only choice for Logitech keyboards. However, if you are looking for a switch brand with a variety of options that still offers good sound, comfort, and works well with many keyboards, Cherry MX will be the optimal choice. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences.
Accessibility
Romer-G switches are switches manufactured exclusively for Logitech mechanical keyboards. Therefore, they are not widely available nor are they compatible with any other brands' keyboards and keycaps.
In contrast, Cherry MX switches are the most common and popular switch type in the mechanical keyboard market and are widely used in keyboards from many different manufacturers. The Cherry MX switch also has a traditional cross-shaped body, so it is compatible with many types of keycaps on the market.
Durability
In terms of durability, both Romer-G vs Cherry MX switches are built to last, but Cherry MX takes the lead. While Logitech boasts a 70 million keystroke lifespan for Romer-G Tactile switches, Cherry MX switches are generally rated for 100 million keystrokes depending on the specific model.
This translates to a longer potential lifespan for Cherry MX switches, especially for heavy typists or gamers. Ultimately, the difference in rated lifespan is relatively modest, and either Romer-G or Cherry MX switches will provide users with many years of reliable, consistent performance.
Versatility
Both Romer-G vs Cherry MX Switches offer a wide range of options. The Romer-G lineup includes tactile, linear, and clicky variants, allowing users to choose their preferred tactile feedback. However, the Romer-G family has a relatively limited number of switch types compared to the expansive Cherry MX portfolio.
Cherry MX includes not just tactile, linear, and clicky switches, but also sub-variants like MX Clear, MX Grey, and MX Silent. This gives Cherry MX users greater ability to fine-tune their switch preferences. Moreover, the ubiquity of Cherry MX means they are supported across a vast ecosystem of compatible accessories, providing users with more customization options. While Romer-G switches are also compatible, the sheer breadth of the Cherry MX lineup gives it a slight edge in terms of versatility.
Pricing
Romer-G switches are typically more expensive than Cherry MX switches because they are made exclusively for Logitech keyboards. Logitech keyboards with Romer-G switches are usually sold in sets for around $100 to $200, depending on model and features. Meanwhile, typically, a set of switches can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, depending on variation and quality.
Additionally, Cherry MX switches can be purchased separately for around $0.4 to $2 per switch, allowing users to customize the keyboard or replace faulty switches.
Typing Performance
Cherry MX Blue switches are the switches with the best typing experience of Cherry MX. It offers a great typing experience with a tactile feel and an audible click, providing feedback to the user when pressing the keys.
Cherry MX Blue has a higher actuation force of 60g than Romer-G Tactile (50g), so tapping will require more force and be more difficult to press.
On the other hand, the Romer-G Tactile switches have a subtle raised edge that provides tactile feedback to the user when pressing the key. However, this raised edge can make users feel scratched, rough and easily press the wrong key when using. Another drawback of the Romer-G is the mushy and unstable feeling when bottoming the switch.
Additionally, they do not produce audible sound, which may not be ideal for some users. So Cherry MX Blue will offer a better experience, but of course the choice is still yours.
Gaming Performance
Romer-G vs Cherry MX Switches both offer strong gaming performance, catering to different gamer preferences. Built for speed, Romer-G switches boast a shorter travel distance and a low actuation point (just 1.5mm) with a light actuation force of 45 gf. According to Logitech, this translates to a 25% increase in responsiveness, giving you a clear edge in fast-paced games.
Cherry MX's wide switch type selection allows gamers to choose their preferred feel, whether linear, tactile, or clicky. Cherry MX's ubiquity also means extensive customization options. Both are excellent for gaming, with the choice often coming down to personal preference and keyboard feature set.
Sound Test
When testing the sound, both Cherry MX and Romer-G switches emit different sounds when pressed. If you love the clicky sound when pressing keys, Cherry MX Blue will be the perfect choice because it provides a sharp, clear clicking sound like the sound of a typewriter. Therefore, the sound produced by Cherry MX Blue is truly satisfying for those who like strong feedback as well as clear sound.
On the contrary, if you are a lover of quiet, Romer-G Tactile and Linear will be more suitable. Unlike the Cherry MX's tendency to produce a distinct clicking sound, these two produce a softer, smoother, and quieter impact.
Uniqueness
Romer-G switches are more unique than Cherry MX switches because they have several features that differentiate them from other mechanical switches. Some of these features are:
Exclusive design and therefore only available with Logitech keyboards.
Beautiful full-key LED lighting effects
Specially designed switch reduces bottom-up noise and makes the switch quieter.
Shorter travel distance and higher actuation point make the switch respond faster.
The size under the key surface is smaller than some other types of switches
Incredible durability, being able to withstand 70 - 90 million keystrokes
Cherry MX switches are less unique than Romer-G switches because they are traditionally designed and have been widely copied and duplicated by other manufacturers. However, some of their features are still unmatched by other switches, such as:
Top quality switches provide a guarantee of reliability and durability.
Many types of switches cater to different preferences and use cases.
Standard body design allows compatibility with most keycaps and semi keys on the market
The design mechanism helps users press keys evenly and accurately, helping to increase typing efficiency.
Clear sound helps users feel each key press.
Overall, Romer-G switches and Cherry MX switches are both great options for mechanical keyboards. However, they still have different strengths and weaknesses, depending on your preferences and needs, you may find one type of switch more suitable than the other.
Our Recommendations
Name
Switches
Price
Logitech G715
GX Linear/Clicky/ Tactile
$163 - $257
Logitech G Pro X
Romer-G
$100 - $120
Corsair K70 MK.2 Rapidfire
Cherry MX Speed
$177 - $180
HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
Cherry MX Red switches
$115 - $412
Ducky One 2 Mini
Cherry MX Red/Blue/Brown
$147 -$160
Vortexgear Cypher 65%
Cherry MX Red/Blue/Brown
$130 - $140
Durgod Taurus K320
Cherry MX Red/Blue/Brown
$62 - $109
Logitech G513 Carbon
Romer-G
$41 - $79
Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum
Romer-G
$136 - $147
Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
#1. Logitech G715
Special features:
Distinctive design with per-key RGB lighting
High-quality keycaps
Smooth GX switches
Long-lasting battery (30h)
Low latency
#2. Logitech G Pro Gaming Romer-G
Special features:
Romer-G keyswitches
Tenkeyless layout
Compact and portable design
RGB lighting program with Logitech HUB G
Detachable USB cache
#3. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
Special features:
Compact design
Cherry MX key switches in three variants: reds, browns, blues
You might wonder why those keyboards are called mechanical keyboards and also what makes them successful tech products for both professional and non-professional users. To satisfy your curiosity, we have here an article ‘The Secret of Mechanical Keyboard Switches’ for you to dig deeper into.
Before getting to compare Romer-G vs Cherry switches, we will take a quick look at both candidates first. The first one will be the Cherry MX switches.
Final Thoughts
The breathtaking confrontation between Romer-G vs Cherry MX Switches has just ended. It's hard to determine which type of switch is the champion. Therefore, the final choice depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you seek optimal response, Romer-G may be the right choice. Meanwhile, if you need flexibility and customization of the experience, Cherry MX will be a great choice.
FAQs
Are Romer-G switches equivalent to Cherry MX switches?
Romer-G Tactile is equivalent to the Cherry MX Brown switch and Romer-G Linear is similar to the Cherry MX Red switch. Note that we are talking about the specs. In terms of typing feel, Romer G is different and unique.
Which is more durable: Cherry MX vs Romer-G?
Overall, Cherry MX is more durable with 100 million keystrokes. However, while Cherry MX Blue clicky switch can last for 50 million, Romer-G clicky can be up 10 70 million keystrokes.
Can you change Romer-G switches with Cherry MX switches?
No, they are not. Romer-G switches have a different stem design so you can not exchange them with Cherry MX or vice versa.
Are Romer-G switches good for gaming?
Yes, Romer-G switches are a good choice for gaming. The Romer-G switches have a short pre-travel distance, making them ideal for gaming. In addition, they offer a subtle tactile bump that is not too loud or distracting. These switches are designed to last for 70 million keypresses, which is a good lifespan for a keyboard.
Are Romer-G switches loud compared to Cherry MX?
No, Romer-G switches are generally quieter than Cherry MX switches. They lack the distinct clicky sound and have a shorter travel distance, resulting in less bottoming-out noise. In contrast, Cherry MX switches offer a wider range of options with varying noise levels - from the relatively quiet linear Red switches to the more pronounced click of the tactile Brown and the audible Blue variants.
Which switches are the quietest for gaming?
Cherry MX Silent Red switches are considered to be the quietest for gaming. These switches are designed for quiet operation, offering a smooth linear feel without the audible click sound. They are ideal for gamers who prefer minimal noise during gameplay.
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