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A CHERRY key switch is an individual mechanical switch made by CHERRY that registers a keypress when its moving actuator changes an electrical contact. CHERRY MX is a family of switches, not one specific feel: models can be linear, tactile, or clicky, with different force and travel specifications.
What a CHERRY key switch does
Each key on a mechanical keyboard operates its own switch. Pressing the key moves the switch’s actuator; that movement changes the electrical contact state, allowing the keyboard to register the press. The switch affects how the key feels and sounds, but the keyboard’s electronics are what interpret the resulting signal.
CHERRY describes Gold Crosspoint contact technology in its MX materials. That is CHERRY’s name for its contact concept, not a universal switch standard. The force, travel, and other figures below apply only to the specific models named.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsHow linear, tactile, and clicky switches differ
These labels describe the experience of pressing a switch; they do not provide a complete specification. CHERRY’s catalog includes all three behavior types, and individual models differ.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Linear: The press moves without a tactile bump or click in CHERRY’s MX2A Black example.
- Tactile: A pressure point provides noticeable feedback during the press. CHERRY describes MX2A Blue as tactile with acoustic feedback.
- Clicky: A distinct audible click accompanies actuation. CHERRY identifies clicky behavior as a category in its catalog; the cited Blue data sheet specifically describes audible feedback.
Color is not a complete guide to a switch’s behavior across generations and product families. Check the exact model and its data sheet rather than assuming every switch of a color has the same feel or specifications.
Model-specific force, travel, and durability
The figures in this table are CHERRY manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. Actuation force is given in centinewtons (cN); travel is in millimeters.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Model | Behavior described by CHERRY | Actuation force | Pretravel | Actuator travel | Manufacturer-listed durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MX2A Blue | Tactile with acoustic feedback | 50 cN | 2.2 mm | 4 mm | Greater than 50 million actuations |
| MX2A Black | Linear, without contact feedback | 60 cN | 2 mm | 4 mm | Greater than 100 million actuations |
| MX Clear (MX1A-Cxxx) | Tactile pressure point | Not stated in the cited 2015 sheet | 2 mm, with 0.6 mm tolerance | 4 mm, with 0.5 mm tolerance | Above 50 million actuations |
The MX2A figures come from CHERRY’s MX2A Blue technical data and MX2A Black technical data, accessed in 2026. The older MX Clear values are from CHERRY’s 2015 MX Clear technical sheet; they should not be treated as current or universal MX specifications. Manufacturer durability ratings are not a promise of how long a switch will last in every keyboard or use pattern.
Will a loose CHERRY switch fit your keyboard?
Not necessarily. A switch’s brand or visible stem shape alone does not establish compatibility. Before buying loose switches or a kit, check the keyboard’s physical switch format and footprint, mounting and pin or connection configuration, and whether the board supports hot-swapping or requires soldering. Confirm that replacement work is supported for your specific keyboard.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
CHERRY’s MX switch kits are intended for people choosing switches for a keyboard build. CHERRY’s model listings specify connection options, but those details do not establish universal compatibility across keyboards.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choosing a next step
- If you are deciding how a keyboard should feel, compare the exact switch models’ behavior, force, and travel data.
- If you are repairing or building a keyboard, verify the board’s switch fit and installation method before choosing a compatible kit.
- If you want a complete keyboard rather than loose switches, CHERRY’s MX 2.0S listing identifies mechanical keys and MX technology in the keyboard.
For the broader product family and switch categories, see CHERRY’s switch catalog.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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