Red switches are very popular in the gaming world. They are linear switches, which means they don’t have a tactile bump or click when pressed. This makes them smooth and easy to press repeatedly, which is why gamers love them. One of their biggest advantages is how fast they trigger. They only need about 40 centinewtons of force, which is very light compared to other switches. After just 2 millimeters of travel, the switch actuates, so your keypress is registered quickly. This speed and light touch make red switches perfect for fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. However, because they are so light and smooth, some people may find them too sensitive for typing, as accidental presses can happen more often.
Best Red Switch Keyboards You Should Consider
1. Alienware Low-Profile
The Alienware keyboard has a sleek, minimal design with that signature Alienware look. Even though it’s made of plastic, it feels solid and well-built. It’s a wired keyboard with a fixed cable at the back, so there’s no USB-C connection. However, it does include a USB pass-through on the back, which is very useful.
The main highlight of this keyboard is its low-profile design and Cherry MX Red switches. These switches are smooth, fast, and have a long lifespan of about 50 million keystrokes. They actuate at 1.2mm and go up to 3.2mm for a full press. The keys feel nice to type on and aren’t too loud or clicky.
The low-profile design also makes typing more comfortable by keeping your hands and wrists in a natural position, so you don’t really need a wrist rest. There are also adjustable legs on the back with two height settings if you prefer an angle.
For RGB lighting, you get a huge range of customization with 16.8 million color options. The software is straightforward and easy to use, making it simple to set up your lighting and preferences.
| Feature | Specifications |
| Layout | Full-size with dedicated media keys |
| Backlighting | Per-key RGB, AlienFX software control |
| Build | Durable plastic frame, slim profile |
| Connectivity | Wired with USB pass-through |
| Durability | 50M keystroke lifespan (Cherry MX) |
Pros
Cons
2. Cypher Fully Programmable
The Cypher keyboard has a simple design but is still very powerful. It comes with a detachable Type-C cable and a unique split spacebar. The split spacebar is handy because you can set up different functions for the left and right sides.
The keycaps are made of high-quality PBT material, which means they won’t get shiny or worn out even after heavy use. The keyboard also has four rubber feet, one on each corner, to keep it from slipping while you type.
It’s an ultra-compact 65% layout, making it small but still functional. It works with Windows XP, 7, Vista, 10, Mac OS, and Linux, although you’ll need Windows to update the firmware.
One drawback is that this keyboard doesn’t have a dedicated delete key, which might be inconvenient for people who use it often.
| Feature | Specifications |
| Layout | 65% compact, programmable split spacebar |
| Switches | Compatible with MX-style mechanical switches |
| Keycaps | PBT, dye-sublimated, durable texture |
| Connectivity | Detachable USB-C, wired only |
| Software | Fully programmable via QMK/VIA firmware |
Pros
Cons
3. G.SKILL USB KM360
The G.Skill KM360 is a compact tenkeyless mechanical keyboard that uses Cherry MX Red switches. It doesn’t come with a wrist rest or full RGB lighting, but each key has a bright white backlight. You can adjust the brightness using the Fn and arrow keys or turn it off completely.
The top plate is made of aluminum while the back is plastic, but the build is solid with no flex. The keycaps have a contoured shape for comfortable typing and feel sturdy with no wobble. They are ABS double-shot keycaps, which makes them fade-proof, so the letters won’t wear off over time.
The spacing between the keys is well designed, making typing smooth and easy. The keyboard also includes a detachable USB Type-C cable, which is convenient if you ever need to replace it. However, the cable length is only 160 cm, which might feel a little short.
Overall, it’s a clean, well-built keyboard that’s simple yet reliable, making it a solid choice for a gaming setup.
| Feature | Specifications |
| Layout | Tenkeyless (TKL) |
| Switches | Cherry MX Red mechanical |
| Backlight | White LED, adjustable brightness |
| Build | Aluminum top plate, plastic base |
| Connectivity | Detachable USB-C cable (1.6m) |
Pros
Cons
4. Ducky One 2 SF
The Ducky One 2 SF is a 65% keyboard, which is smaller than a standard TKL. This layout keeps your hands closer together, giving better comfort while gaming. It’s also compact enough to carry in a backpack, making it a good option for mobile use.
All the important keys are still included. The SF has a dedicated row on the right with arrow keys, plus a separate delete key. For some people, the delete key being apart from backspace can be a bit annoying when editing. On the positive side, the dedicated arrow keys are very handy, so you don’t need to use a function layer with IJKL for navigation.
The keyboard connects with a Type-C cable and has a sturdy build, mostly made of plastic. It comes with dual-angle feet that feel stable, and rubber pads on the bottom prevent sliding. The keycaps are made of durable PBT plastic, which makes them resistant to shine and wear. Overall, it’s a solid, well-built compact keyboard.
| Feature | Specifications |
| Layout | Tenkeyless (TKL) |
| Switches | Cherry MX Red mechanical |
| Backlight | White LED, adjustable brightness |
| Build | Aluminum top plate, plastic base |
| Connectivity | Detachable USB-C cable (1.6m) |
Pros
Cons
5. Leopold FC980MBT
The Leopold FC980MBT is a pre-built keyboard that comes with Cherry MX switches. The first thing you’ll notice is its look. The off-white and grey color scheme feels retro, like old keyboards, but with a modern touch. The case has a simple wedge shape that adds to the clean design.
This keyboard uses a less common layout called the Compact 1800. It combines all the functions of a full-size keyboard but in a smaller footprint, close to a TKL. While the layout might take some getting used to, the overall build quality makes up for it. The steel mounting plate inside keeps it solid, and the plastic case fits tightly with no flex or creaks.
The keycaps are thick PBT plastic with double-shot legends, which means the letters won’t fade or wear down over time. The small Cherry-style font gives a nice mix of modern and classic. The keycap profile is similar to Cherry’s and, while they have a textured surface, they can feel a little slippery during use.
| Feature | Specifications |
| Layout | Compact 1800 (98-key) |
| Switches | Cherry MX options |
| Keycaps | Thick PBT, double-shot legends |
| Connectivity | Wired USB-C + Bluetooth (dual mode) |
| Build | Steel plate, solid plastic case |
Pros
Cons
And if you’re curious about a slightly tactile alternative, be sure to explore our comprehensive roundup of best brown switch keyboards.
Conclusion
I believe Cherry MX switches are some of the best for gaming because they have a fast response and low actuation force. That’s exactly what most gamers want when they need to react quickly in games.
If you’ve made it this far, you should now be able to pick the right red switch keyboard for yourself. Take your time, choose what feels best, and good luck finding the one that fits your style.
FAQ’S
Is Cherry MX Red better than Outemu Red?
Cherry MX Red and Outemu Red are both linear switches with low actuation force. However, Cherry MX switches are more durable than Outemu Reds because they last longer and offer more consistent performance.
Which is louder, red or blue switches?
Blue switches need about 60g of force. They are clicky, tactile, and make a sound when pressed. Red switches are linear, need less force, and are considered quieter.
Are Cherry MX red switches clicky?
Cherry MX Red switches have a simple design that moves straight up and down, with no tactile bump or loud clicking sound.
What is the lifespan of a cherry switch?
Cherry MX switches last up to 50 million keystrokes without losing quality, and this lifespan is guaranteed.
