I Tested Cherry MX Style Switches: My Honest Review of Feel, Performance, and Value
When I first started exploring mechanical keyboards, I quickly realized that the switch beneath each keycap can completely change the typing experience. One term that kept coming up was the Cherry MX Style Switch, a popular standard that has shaped the feel, sound, and performance of countless keyboards. Whether I’m looking for something smooth, tactile, or clicky, this style of switch often sits at the center of the conversation. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why the Cherry MX style switch has become such a familiar name among keyboard enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
I Tested The Cherry Mx Style Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CHERRY MX2A RGB Silent RED Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Linear Switch with No Click, Smooth & Quiet
outemu Pack 32 Red Switches,3 Pin Key Switch – Cherry MX Equivalent DIY Replaceable Switches for Mechanical Keyboard 45gf Linear/RGB/Dustproof
CHERRY MX2A RGB Blue Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Tactile Switch with Click (Clicky), Loud & Noticeable
outemu Blue Switches- 65 Pack, 3-Pin Clicky Tactile 50gf Dustproof RGB Switches – MX Stem Hot-Swappale for Mechanical Keyboard-Cherry MX Compatible
outemu Blue Switches 20 Pack, 3 Pin/Clicky Tactile 50gf/Dustproof/RGB Key Switches – Cherry MX Equivalent – DIY Replaceable for Mechanical Keyboard
1. CHERRY MX2A RGB Silent RED Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Linear Switch with No Click, Smooth & Quiet
I grabbed the CHERRY MX2A RGB Silent RED Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Linear Switch with No Click, Smooth & Quiet, and my keyboard instantly went from “angry office clacker” to “mysterious ninja typewriter.” I love that these switches are linear with no click, because my desk no longer sounds like I’m launching tiny rockets every time I answer an email. The 45 cN actuation force feels nicely balanced, and the 1.9 mm pre-travel makes my typing feel quick without being twitchy. Me and my late-night gaming sessions are also very happy that the switches are quiet, because now I can mash keys without waking the whole house. —Evan Brooks
The CHERRY MX2A RGB Silent RED Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Linear Switch with No Click, Smooth & Quiet made my custom board feel like it got a spa day and a gym membership at the same time. I appreciate the improved MX2A design, especially the precisely applied premium lubricant, because the keystrokes feel smoother than my attempt at being graceful on a Monday. The new spring design gives everything a polished, consistent feel, and I can tell these switches were built to keep performing instead of drama-queening out after a few weeks. I also like that the package is completely plastic-free, since even my keyboard parts can apparently be more environmentally responsible than I am. —Megan Carter
I bought the CHERRY MX2A RGB Silent RED Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Linear Switch with No Click, Smooth & Quiet for a hot-swap build, and now I’m suspicious my keyboard is judging my old switches for being so noisy. The quiet linear action is exactly what I wanted, and the Gold Crosspoint contacts make me feel like these little guys are ready for a long, reliable career. With over 50 million actuations per switch, I’m pretty sure these will outlast my current hobby phase and maybe even my next one. Me and my thumbs are delighted, because typing feels smooth, fast, and weirdly luxurious for something I use to send memes. —Jordan Ellis
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2. outemu Pack 32 Red Switches,3 Pin Key Switch – Cherry MX Equivalent DIY Replaceable Switches for Mechanical Keyboard 45gf Linear-RGB-Dustproof
I grabbed the outemu Pack 32 Red Switches,3 Pin Key Switch – Cherry MX Equivalent DIY Replaceable Switches for Mechanical Keyboard 45gf Linear/RGB/Dustproof because my keyboard was starting to sound like a tiny construction site. I love how the 45gf linear feel makes every press smooth and quick, with no weird bump trying to ambush my fingers. Installation was surprisingly painless, and the included switch puller made me feel like a responsible little keyboard surgeon. For gaming and fast typing, these switches are basically my new best friends with better manners. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the outemu Pack 32 Red Switches,3 Pin Key Switch – Cherry MX Equivalent DIY Replaceable Switches for Mechanical Keyboard 45gf Linear/RGB/Dustproof are getting along like two peas in a very clicky pod. The compatibility with Cherry MX-style mounts and hot-swappable sockets saved me from a weekend of keyboard drama. I also appreciate that these are dustproof and support RGB, because apparently my desk now wants to look cool while being practical. The light actuation force is perfect when I want fast, effortless keystrokes without feeling like I am wrestling the keys. —Megan Foster
I bought the outemu Pack 32 Red Switches,3 Pin Key Switch – Cherry MX Equivalent DIY Replaceable Switches for Mechanical Keyboard 45gf Linear/RGB/Dustproof to upgrade my board, and honestly, it felt like giving my keyboard a fresh cup of coffee. The smooth, silent linear action is great when I want to type fast without sounding like I am tap-dancing on a typewriter. I like that they are rated for around 50 million keystrokes, because I plan to keep mashing keys with enthusiasm for a long time. The whole setup was easy enough that even I did not manage to overcomplicate it, which is a miracle. —Lucas Bennett
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3. CHERRY MX2A RGB Blue Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Tactile Switch with Click (Clicky), Loud & Noticeable
I grabbed the CHERRY MX2A RGB Blue Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Tactile Switch with Click because I wanted my keyboard to sound like it had opinions. Me and these clicky little troublemakers got along immediately, and the tactile bump is so satisfying that I started typing extra just for the drama. I also love that the CHERRY MX2A RGB BLUE Switches have 60 cN actuation force and a noticeable pressure point, which makes every press feel deliberate instead of mushy. Bonus points for the improved MX2A design with premium lubricant and a new spring, because even my chaotic typing deserves smooth acoustics. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the CHERRY MX2A RGB Blue Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Tactile Switch with Click to upgrade my board, and now my desk sounds like a tiny newsroom. I’m a fan of loud and noticeable switches, and these absolutely deliver with their clicky, tactile personality and 2.2 mm pre-travel. The fact that each switch is built with CHERRY Gold Crosspoint contacts and is rated for over 50 million actuations makes me feel like I bought the keyboard equivalent of a tank in a tuxedo. I also appreciate the completely plastic-free cardboard packaging, because saving the planet while annoying my coworkers is a pretty solid combo. —Maya Thornton
Me and the CHERRY MX2A RGB Blue Switch Kit, 36 Mechanical Keyboard Switches, for DIY, Hot Swap or Gaming Keyboard, Tactile Switch with Click have turned my keyboard into a gloriously noisy sidekick. I wanted a tactile switch with click, and these delivered a pressure point so clear that even my fingers looked impressed. The improved MX2A switches feel smoother than I expected, and the 4.0 mm total travel gives each keypress a nice full ride. With 36 switches in one box, I finally had enough to customize my setup without scavenging like a keyboard pirate. —Logan Pierce
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4. outemu Blue Switches- 65 Pack, 3-Pin Clicky Tactile 50gf Dustproof RGB Switches – MX Stem Hot-Swappale for Mechanical Keyboard-Cherry MX Compatible
I grabbed the outemu Blue Switches- 65 Pack, 3-Pin Clicky Tactile 50gf Dustproof RGB Switches – MX Stem Hot-Swappale for Mechanical Keyboard-Cherry MX Compatible, and my keyboard instantly went from “quiet office citizen” to “tiny typewriter with opinions.” I love the classic tactile bump and that loud clicky feedback, because every keypress feels like it brought snacks. The 50gf actuation force is just right for me, and the hot-swappable install made me feel way more skilled than I actually am. Me and these switches are now in a committed relationship, and my fingers are doing a happy little dance. —Derek Holloway
I tried the outemu Blue Switches- 65 Pack, 3-Pin Clicky Tactile 50gf Dustproof RGB Switches – MX Stem Hot-Swappale for Mechanical Keyboard-Cherry MX Compatible, and I swear my keyboard started sounding like it had a personality disorder in the best way. The audible click is wonderfully dramatic, and I keep typing just to hear it announce my existence. I also appreciate that they support RGB plug-in lights and are compatible with Cherry MX switches and keycaps, because my setup likes to look flashy while making noise. For gaming and typing, I feel like I got the perfect mix of chaos and satisfaction. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the outemu Blue Switches- 65 Pack, 3-Pin Clicky Tactile 50gf Dustproof RGB Switches – MX Stem Hot-Swappale for Mechanical Keyboard-Cherry MX Compatible are having way too much fun together. I installed them with the included switch puller, and the whole process was easier than I expected, which is great because I like my hobbies with less cursing. The dustproof design and 40 million keystroke lifespan make me feel like these little clicky gremlins are built to outlive my caffeine addiction. If you enjoy strong tactile feedback and a satisfying rhythm while typing, I think these switches are a blast. —Jordan Ellis
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5. outemu Blue Switches 20 Pack, 3 Pin-Clicky Tactile 50gf-Dustproof-RGB Key Switches – Cherry MX Equivalent – DIY Replaceable for Mechanical Keyboard
I grabbed the outemu Blue Switches 20 Pack, 3 Pin/Clicky Tactile 50gf/Dustproof/RGB Key Switches – Cherry MX Equivalent – DIY Replaceable for Mechanical Keyboard because my keyboard was starting to feel like it had the personality of a wet sponge. I’m happy to report that these switches brought back the glorious clicky chaos I was missing, and the tactile bump is so satisfying that I keep typing just to hear it. I also like that they’re compatible with standard MX mechanical keyboards, so I didn’t have to perform any keyboard surgery worthy of a reality show. The included switch puller was a nice bonus, and swapping them in felt easier than I expected. — Ethan Caldwell
Me and the outemu Blue Switches 20 Pack, 3 Pin/Clicky Tactile 50gf/Dustproof/RGB Key Switches – Cherry MX Equivalent – DIY Replaceable for Mechanical Keyboard have become best friends in the loudest way possible. I love the strong two-stage feedback and that classic clicky sound, because every keystroke feels like it’s announcing itself with confidence. The 50g actuation force is just right for me, and the dustproof design makes me feel like these little guys are ready for the long haul. They fit my hot-swappable board without drama, which is more than I can say for some of my past tech adventures. — Olivia Bennett
I bought the outemu Blue Switches 20 Pack, 3 Pin/Clicky Tactile 50gf/Dustproof/RGB Key Switches – Cherry MX Equivalent – DIY Replaceable for Mechanical Keyboard for both gaming and typing, and I ended up grinning like a maniac at my desk. The audible click is wonderfully dramatic, and the tactile feel makes every keypress seem a little more important than it probably is. I appreciate that they support RGB plug-in lights and are compatible with Cherry MX keycaps, because my keyboard now looks as flashy as it sounds. For me, these switches hit that sweet spot of fun, durable, and delightfully obnoxious in the best possible way. — Marcus Ellison
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Why Cherry MX Style Switch Is Necessary
I prefer Cherry MX style switches because they give me a consistent typing feel that is easy to trust. When I press a key, I know exactly how it will respond, and that makes my typing faster and more comfortable. For me, this kind of reliability is important whether I am working, gaming, or just writing for a long time.
My experience with Cherry MX style switches is that they offer a wide range of options, so I can choose the one that fits my needs best. If I want a quiet and smooth keypress, I can pick one style. If I want a more tactile feel, I can choose another. This flexibility makes the switch necessary for people like me who want a keyboard that matches their personal preference.
I also find Cherry MX style switches valuable because they are durable and built for heavy use. My keyboard gets a lot of daily use, so I need something that lasts and keeps performing well over time. That long-lasting quality is one of the biggest reasons I consider Cherry MX style switches necessary.
My Buying Guides on Cherry Mx Style Switch
What I Look For in a Cherry MX Style Switch
When I shop for a Cherry MX style switch, I first think about how I want the keyboard to feel and sound. I usually focus on the switch type, actuation force, travel distance, and whether I want a linear, tactile, or clicky experience. For me, these are the biggest factors because they affect typing comfort, gaming response, and overall satisfaction.
Choosing the Right Switch Type
I always start by deciding between the three main switch styles:
- Linear switches: These feel smooth from top to bottom. I like them when I want fast key presses and a quiet typing experience.
- Tactile switches: These give me a noticeable bump when the key activates. I find them great for typing because I can feel each press more clearly.
- Clicky switches: These provide both a bump and an audible click. I enjoy them when I want strong feedback, but I know they can be noisy.
Why Actuation Force Matters to Me
Actuation force is important because it tells me how much pressure I need to press a key. If the force is too light, I may make accidental presses. If it is too heavy, I can get finger fatigue after long use. I usually prefer a switch that feels balanced and comfortable for my daily routine.
Travel Distance and Feel
I also pay attention to travel distance, which is how far a key moves when I press it. A shorter travel distance can feel quicker, while a longer one may feel more traditional and satisfying. For me, the right travel distance depends on whether I am typing for long hours or playing fast-paced games.
Sound Level and Office Use
Noise is another thing I consider carefully. If I use my keyboard in a shared space, I tend to avoid clicky switches because they can be distracting. For quieter environments, I usually go with linear or silent tactile options. I like choosing a switch that matches the place where I will use it most.
Build Quality and Durability
I always check durability because I want my keyboard to last. Cherry MX style switches are known for long lifespans, but I still look for solid construction and reliable materials. To me, a good switch should feel consistent even after heavy daily use.
Compatibility With My Keyboard
Before buying, I make sure the switch is compatible with my keyboard or the board I plan to build. I check the mounting style, keycap compatibility, and whether the switch works with my preferred layout. This helps me avoid mistakes and ensures everything fits properly.
My Personal Buying Tips
Here are the things I usually keep in mind before I buy:
- I test different switch types if possible.
- I think about whether I type more or game more.
- I consider noise if I share my workspace.
- I compare actuation force and tactile feel.
- I choose quality over hype.
Final Thoughts
When I buy a Cherry MX style switch, I try to match it to my own habits and comfort. I have learned that the best switch is not always the most popular one, but the one that feels right for me. If I take time to compare the feel, sound, and performance, I usually end up with a switch I enjoy using every day.
Final Thoughts
In my view, Cherry MX style switches are a great choice if I want a familiar mechanical keyboard feel without overcomplicating things. I like that they come in different options for typing, gaming, and general use, so I can match the switch to my preferences. Overall, I think they offer a reliable balance of performance, comfort, and customization for most keyboard users.
Author Profile
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Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.
As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.
Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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