Keyswitch Standard-Bearer Cherry Offers Up Four New Keyswitches At Computex

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When two items come into contact, they generate friction, which in turn leads to a decrease in speed and the development of wear. This isn’t limited to objects like joysticks; even keyboard keyswitches are subject to this phenomenon. To address these issues, Cherry, a renowned German manufacturer known for exceptional quality and consistency in their keyswitches, has unveiled innovative solutions with some of their latest products. This revelation was made at the annual Computex computing convention, which takes place in Taipei, Taiwan.

One frequent (and frustrating) method we experience frictional wear as gamers is through the phenomenon known as analog stick drift, which happens when the potentiometers beneath your joysticks start to degrade or accumulate dust. However, Cherry offers two of their own switches designed to address this problem, specifically the MK and IK switches. While Cherry’s name is often associated with their MX switches, leading one to believe that the company’s name might be Cherry MX, these two switches help demonstrate otherwise.

At the exhibit, Cherry displayed an early glimpse of their upcoming MK magnetic switches. As of now, there isn’t a specific launch date set, but they are being developed. The magnetic switches claim to provide “unparalleled speed and gaming-level precision,” as stated by Cherry themselves. Since the switches were only unveiled for preview, they didn’t have any additional details to share.

Coming soon in Fall 2025 are the IK Series of inductive keyswitches by the company. These switches function on a concept similar to Hall Effect switches but with Cherry’s unique patented design, using less than 5% of the power compared to Hall Effect switches and half as much as MK magnetic switches. The IK switches boast a durable, magnet-free metal design for superior reliability, precision, and longevity. They also offer advanced RGB lighting, adjustable actuation, and minimal power consumption.

But should you be more inclined towards the classic mechanical key switches from the MX line, rest assured, Cherry has catered to your preference with three fresh options: MX Honey, MX Blossom, and MX Falcon.

1. The Honey switches are silent, tactile switches designed to provide users with the satisfying feedback of a tactile switch without the characteristic noise of traditional ones. On the other hand, MX Blossom switches are the lightest linear mechanical switches ever produced by the company, with an actuation force of merely 35 centinewtons (cN). For reference, most Cherry MX switches require between 60-70 cN, and some even as low as 45 cN. In other words, these switches are both lightweight and silent. Lastly, the MX Falcon switches cater to heavy typists who appreciate a strong feedback sensation and a satisfying tactile ‘punch’, inspired by the distinctive snap of typewriters. The design of this switch, which is concealed beneath the keycaps once installed, takes inspiration from ’90s retro aesthetics, featuring a PC-beige-and-black housing with an orange key stem.

2. The Honey switches are silent tactile switches that offer users the gratifying sensation of a tactile switch without the traditional clackety-clack sound. In contrast, MX Blossom switches are the lightest linear mechanical switches offered by the company so far, requiring just 35 centinewtons (cN) to actuate. This is significantly less than most Cherry MX switches, which require between 60-70 cN, or even 45 cN in some cases. In essence, these switches are both lightweight and silent. Additionally, the MX Falcon switches target heavy typists who seek a powerful feedback sensation and a rewarding tactile ‘punch’, inspired by the unique snap of typewriters. The design of this switch, hidden from view beneath the keycaps once installed, is reminiscent of ’90s retro style, boasting a PC-beige-and-black casing with an orange key stem.

3. The Honey switches are silent tactile switches, providing users with the enjoyable sensation of a tactile switch without the typical clicking noise associated with traditional ones. In contrast, MX Blossom switches are the lightest linear mechanical switches ever offered by the company, requiring a mere 35 centinewtons (cN) to activate. This is much less than most Cherry MX switches, which require between 60-70 cN or even 45 cN in some cases. In other words, these switches are both lightweight and silent. Lastly, the MX Falcon switches cater to heavy typists who yearn for a strong feedback sensation and a satisfying tactile ‘punch’, inspired by the iconic snap of typewriters. The design of this switch, concealed beneath the keycaps once installed, is inspired by ’90s retro aesthetics, featuring a PC-beige-and-black housing with an orange key stem.

4. The Honey switches are silent tactile switches that offer users the enjoyable sensation of a tactile switch without the usual clicking noise associated with traditional ones. In contrast, MX Blossom switches are the lightest linear mechanical switches ever produced by the company, requiring just 35 centinewtons (cN) to actuate. This is significantly less than most Cherry MX switches, which require between 60-70 cN or even 45 cN in some cases. In essence, these switches are both lightweight and silent. Furthermore, the MX Falcon switches cater to heavy typists who crave a powerful feedback sensation and a rewarding tactile ‘punch’, inspired by the distinctive snap of typewriters. The design of this switch, which is hidden from view beneath the keycaps once installed, takes inspiration from ’90s retro style, showcasing a PC-beige-and-black casing with an orange key stem.

Next month, you’ll find the latest MX switches on sale, while consumer sets consisting of 36 switches will become available a short time afterward.

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2025-05-21 02:09