Kailh Red
LinearKailh's traditional budget linear, a staple of affordable gaming keyboards for years. Slightly heavier and scratchier than its Gateron equivalent, but dependable and everywhere.
Sound & feel
Kailh's traditional Red is one of the original Cherry-clone linears, produced in enormous volume for budget gaming boards long before the enthusiast boom. At 50 g it runs a touch heavier than the typical 45 g Red, with a slide that's honest but drier than Gateron's.
Its historical role matters more than its specs: Kailh Reds put mechanical switches into thousands of sub-$60 keyboards and introduced a generation to the category. Modern budget buyers usually get a smoother deal from Gateron or Akko.
Today the traditional line is mostly interesting as a baseline, the switch Kailh's own BOX and Speed families were designed to leapfrog.
Sound on this page is synthesized from the switch's published specs and community-documented character: an honest simulation, not a recording. We're progressively replacing simulations with our own studio recordings. How our sounds are made
Compare it
- Kailh Red vs Gateron Red , or jump to Gateron Red
- Kailh Red vs Cherry MX Red MX2A , or jump to Cherry MX Red MX2A
- Kailh Red vs Kailh BOX Red , or jump to Kailh BOX Red
- Kailh Red vs Outemu Red , or jump to Outemu Red
Frequently asked questions
What does the Kailh Red sound like?
familiar MX-clone clack with a touch more scratch. Use the player on this page to hear simulated press and release sounds derived from its real specifications.
Is the Kailh Red good for gaming or typing?
As a linear switch with 50g actuation force and 2mm pre-travel, it suits fast, repeated presses, which is why linears are a common gaming pick. It types perfectly well too if you like a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke.
How heavy is the Kailh Red?
50g actuation. Note that Kailh officially rates actuation force. Brands differ, so check the basis when comparing switches.