Consider a red switch add-on if you’re looking to invest in a mechanical keyboard that you could use for typing.
Red switches can be used for typing, as they’re incredibly lightweight and touch-sensitive. That said, Cherry MX (red) switches are best suited to gamers, as they are linear switches with little actuation. They respond faster and require less force than a standard key.
Let’s find out what you need about red switches, whether they’re good for typing, and the other options available for your mechanical keyboard.
What is a Red Switch Keyboard?
A red switch can be added to a mechanical keyboard, which is most commonly used for gaming. Mechanical keyboards are comfortable and durable and offer top-level performance when playing games on your computer.
Several mechanical keyboards are available, and they come with a handy color code to make it easier for you to decide which is best for you.
With that in mind, there are red, brown, and blue switches to consider on a mechanical keyboard.
A red switch is linear and silent, with an actuation force of 45cN, which refers to how much pressure you need to exert with your finger to make the keypress register.
In other words, red switches are incredibly light and easy to press, making them a super popular option with gamers.
Which Color Switch is Best for Typing?
Although red switches can be used for typing, it’s widely accepted that Cherry MX blue switches are the better option for typists and programmers. Blue switches are clicky switches, as you hear a click when you make a keystroke.
This is perfect for typing, programming, or playing strategy games where typing is a feature.
As they require slightly more force than red switches, blue switches are louder and may even make your hands more tired from continuous typing.
But thanks to their design, blue switches are a better option than red switches for typing, so bear this in mind if the games you’re playing with your mechanical keyboard require a significant amount of typing.
What to Look for in a Switch for Typing?
When deciding on the ideal switch for typing, there are several factors that you need to take into account, including:
- Actuation type: Are the switches tactile, linear, or clicky? The best actuation type for typing is tactile or clicky.
- Actuation force: Next, consider the force required to press the keys. Switches are rated in grams (from 35g to 100g), with the best keys for typing ranging from 40g to 50g.
- Travel distance: This refers to the length that you can press a switch until it bottoms out, and 4.00mm is a standard distance for typing.
- Noise level: Finally, you should consider how noisy the switch is, mainly if you work in an office!
You can consider the above factors before buying the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard, ensuring that you strike the right balance for its intended use.
Which is the Best Brand of Red switch?
When equipping a mechanical keyboard, you can consider several brands, but Cherry MX is the best. This is due to the quality of the tactile switch and the fact that it’s perfect for gaming.
Other brands to consider are ZealPC Zilents and Topre, which supply good-quality switches for mechanical keyboards.
Although noise isn’t an issue with most red switches, the ZealPC Zilent red switch is practically silent and is the best option if quietness is important to you.
If you’re used to membrane or rubber dome keyboards, Topre switches are your best bet, as they’re not entirely different and don’t take much getting used to.
Ultimately, whichever you choose, you can rest assured that the above three brands are all great options to consider if you’re looking for red switches for your mechanical keyboard.
Where to Buy Cherry MX Red Switches?
As one of the most popular types of switches for mechanical keyboards, you can buy Cherry MX red switches from numerous sites online, including Amazon and other retailers. eBay is also a great place to pick up Cherry MX red switches at a reasonable price.
If you want to order Cherry MX red switches in bulk, Alibaba Express is a great option, as is the case if you’re looking to buy a range of computer items in bulk.
So, given their availability and easy-to-find online, Cherry MX is the best brand to opt for if you want to add red switches to your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
So, the bottom line is that red switches can be used for typing, but they’re not necessarily the best option, with blue and brown buttons offering a slightly better feel.
That said, if you install red switches on your mechanical keyboard for gaming, you should be OK with typing, although it might take a little bit of getting used to if you’re unfamiliar with how the switches feel.