KiiwiCherry MX Red vs Black sound
Two Cherry linears with the same design and different springs: the Red is a light 45cN, the Black a heavy 60cN. Type below and switch between them to hear what weight changes.
Type the words below, then switch above. Headphones make the difference obvious.
The short answer
Same shape, different spring. The Red is light and quick with a crisp bottom-out; the Black takes more force and lands with a firmer, more deliberate sound.
Cherry MX Red
A light 45cN linear. Presses come quickly and evenly, and on ABS keycaps the sound is bright and a little clacky.
Cherry MX Black
One of the original MX switches, a heavy 60cN linear. Its stiffer spring means you press harder and bottom out with more force, for a firm, solid sound. Kiiwi has it stock and on ABS and PBT keycaps: brighter on ABS, deeper and drier on PBT.
At a glance
| Cherry MX Red | Cherry MX Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Linear | Linear |
| Weight | 45cN | 60cN |
| Sound | Light, crisp | Firm, solid |
| Recordings | ABS keycaps | Stock, ABS, PBT |
Questions
What's the difference between Cherry MX Red and Black?
Only the spring. Both are linears with no bump and no click. The Red is 45cN and light; the Black is 60cN and heavier, so it bottoms out with more force and sounds firmer.
Which is quieter, MX Red or MX Black?
Neither has a click, so both are quiet. The Black's heavier press makes its bottom-out a little firmer; the Red's is lighter and crisper.
Is MX Black too heavy for typing?
Some people find 60cN tiring over long sessions; others like the deliberate feel. If you're unsure, the Red is the lighter option.
Can I hear the Cherry MX Red and Black on my Mac?
Yes. Kiiwi plays the Cherry MX Red and Black, recorded from real switches, under the keyboard you already own, from the menu bar, in every app.
Get these sounds on your Mac
Kiiwi has all 38 recordings, these included, and plays them under the keyboard you already own. In your headphones or on your speakers, from the menu bar. $4.99 once.
Download for macOS