The Cherry MX Silent Red (PCB mount) and HMX Blackberry switches are both standard MX mechanical switches of the silent linear breed. They both feature standard stem shape, 3.70 mm total travel, however, they come with different top housing (Nylon vs PA12 Nylon), bottom housing (Nylon vs PA66 Nylon), stem material (POM vs POM+TPE), spring (stainless steel vs 22 mm single-stage), actuation (45 g vs 42 g), pre-travel (1.90 mm vs 2.20 mm). That said, they are not too similar. Let's check out this side-by-side specs rundawn with details, availability -- and even current prices -- to figure out which one fits you the best!
The Cherry MX Silent Red (PCB mount) is a silent linear standard MX mechanical switch with Nylon top housing, Nylon bottom housing, and POM stem (standard shape). It features a stainless steel spring. The 45g actuation occurs at 1.90mm. Bottom-out is at 3.70mm. No factory lubing. Manufactured by Cherry. | The HMX Blackberry is a silent linear standard MX mechanical switch with PA12 Nylon top housing, PA66 Nylon bottom housing, and POM+TPE stem (standard shape). It features a 22 mm single-stage spring. The 42g actuation occurs at 2.20mm. The 48g bottom-out occurs at 3.70mm. Factory lubing? Yes! Designed by YG. Manufactured by HMX. |
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| Name | Cherry MX Silent Red (PCB mount) | HMX Blackberry |
|---|---|---|
| Type | silent linear | silent linear |
| Footprint | 5-pin | 5-pin |
| Top housing | Nylon | PA12 Nylon |
| Bottom housing | Nylon | PA66 Nylon |
| Stem material | POM | POM+TPE |
| Stem shape | standard | standard |
| Spring | stainless steel | 22 mm single-stage |
| Actuation | 45 g | 42 g |
| Bottom-out | - g | 48 g |
| Pre-travel | 1.90 mm | 2.20 mm |
| Total travel | 3.70 mm | 3.70 mm |
| Lube | No factory lubing. | Factory lubing? Yes! |
| Designer | - | YG |
| Manufacturer | Cherry | HMX |
By tracking prices and in-stock status of 30+ well-known keyboard stores worldwide, we can state that the Cherry MX Silent Red (PCB mount) is available at a single shop at the moment, while the HMX Blackberry can be found in multiple stores.
Clicking the links below take you to some notable keyboard shops offering Cherry MX Silent Red (PCB mount) and HMX Blackberry switches. When accepted, the prices indicated already include the discount - use the KBDNEWS coupon code at checkout to claim your saving!
Prices, discounts, and stock status are checked regularly; however, changes since the last update cannot be ruled out. Everything here is for informational purposes only. Check the product pages for the latest prices!
Comments on Cherry MX Silent Red (PCB mount) switches | Comments on HMX Blackberry switches |
There are both PCB and plate mount versions of MX Silent Reds, this entry is specifically about the PCB-mount variant. | The HMX Blackberry silent linear switches are the answer to a problem many enthusiasts know well: silent switches that are quiet, but sacrifice precision, feedback, and feel. The designer of the Blackberry switches (YG) was dissatisfied with the status quo and chose a completely different approach. The result is a silent linear switch that doesn’t aim to be completely noiseless, but instead deliberately offers a clearer, more defined typing experience without sounding intrusive. Blackberry switches deliver a smooth, controlled typing feel, combined with a precise bottom-out and a noticeably reduced—but not mushy—sound profile. Ideal for anyone who wants silent switches without compromising on tactility and confirmation! – MonacoKeys. The HMX Blackberry is silent linear that features POM + TPE stem for noise dampening. With light actuation and a gentle bottom-out, these switches provide a whisper-quiet typing experience with minimal wobble, perfect for quiet workspaces or late-night gaming – LumeKeebs. |
