

Acting as kind of a midpoint between membrane and mechanical keys, Topres are unusual rubber dome switches that come in interconnected sheets. Topre switches aren't too popular this side of the Pacific, but like Spinal Tap, they're really big in Japan. There are other types of Cherry keys out there, like the extra-clicky Greens and the resistant Clears, but those varieties are not as common as the ones listed above. This theoretically lets gamers pound keys faster - helpful in genres like MOBA (League of Legends, Dota 2) and MMO (World of Warcraft, Star Wars: The Old Republic), where skills are constantly refreshing. Unlike Reds, though, they travel only 1.2 mm rather than the standard 2 mm. Like Reds, Cherry MX Speeds are linear switches that require 45 g of actuation force.

Cherry MX Blues require 50 g of actuation force.Ĭherry MX Speed or Silver switches are built with gamers in mind. Some users find the noise gratifying others find it insufferable. They don't make much sound, and spring back very quickly after actuation.Ĭherry MX Blues are "clicky" switches, meaning they make audible clicking noises every time you depress them, like typewriters of old. Browns are tactile switches that require 45 g of force to activate. They feel a little more resistant than Reds, and are also available in a Silent variant.Ĭherry MX Browns are some of the most popular switches in gaming keyboards. The keys are also very quiet, particularly the MX Red Silent variant, which makes them good for office environments or crowded houses.Ĭherry MX Blacks are linear switches that are very similar to Reds, save that they require 60 g of force to actuate. The light touch makes them a good choice for both gaming and typing. These linear switches require 45 grams of force to actuate. MX switches from top-left clockwise: Red, Black, Brown and BlueĬherries come in a variety of colors, but these are the main ones you'll see:Ĭherry MX Reds are some of the most widespread switches out there, and for good reason.
