Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsA CHERRY key switch is an individual mechanical switch made by CHERRY that registers a keypress when its internal electrical contact changes state. CHERRY MX is one family of these switches—not a single switch type—so the feel, sound, force and travel depend on the specific model.
What happens when you press a CHERRY key switch?
Each switch sits beneath a keyboard key. Pressing the key moves the switch’s actuator, changing the state of an electrical contact so the keyboard can detect the press. CHERRY describes its MX switches as using Gold Crosspoint contact technology; that is the manufacturer’s name for its contact concept, not a universal switch standard.
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The switch’s internal mechanism also shapes how the press feels and sounds. CHERRY’s MX catalog includes linear, tactile and clicky characteristics, so the company name alone does not tell you what a particular key will feel like.
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- Linear: The press moves without a tactile bump or a click. CHERRY describes the MX2A Black as linear and without contact feedback.
- Tactile: The press has a noticeable pressure point, or bump, that provides physical feedback. CHERRY describes the MX Clear as having a tactile pressure point.
- Clicky: The switch provides audible feedback as well as a tactile sensation. CHERRY describes the MX2A Blue as tactile with acoustic feedback.
These examples describe specific models. Do not assume a switch’s color alone identifies every property across CHERRY generations or product families; check the exact model’s specifications.
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- 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.
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- 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.
How do MX2A Blue and MX2A Black compare?
The figures below come from CHERRY’s model-specific technical data sheets, accessed in 2026. They are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results.
| Model | Character | 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 |
Actuation force is the force specified for registering a press; pretravel is the distance before actuation, while actuator travel is the listed overall travel. These values belong to the named MX2A models and should not be applied to all CHERRY switches.
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- 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.)
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- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What do the MX Clear specifications mean?
CHERRY’s 2015 technical sheet for the MX Clear (MX1A-Cxxx) describes a tactile pressure point. It lists 4 mm actuator travel with a 0.5 mm tolerance, 2 mm pretravel with a 0.6 mm tolerance, and durability above 50 million actuations. Because this is an older model document, treat its figures as specifications for that model—not as current, universal MX values.
Will a loose CHERRY switch fit your keyboard?
Not necessarily. A CHERRY-branded switch is not automatically compatible with every keyboard, and a similar-looking stem does not establish fit. Before buying loose switches or a kit, check:
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- 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.
- The keyboard’s switch format and physical footprint.
- The switch’s mounting and pin or connection configuration.
- Whether the keyboard supports hot-swappable switches or requires soldering.
- Whether replacement work is supported for your specific keyboard.
CHERRY sells MX switch kits for people building keyboards, but the availability of a kit does not establish universal compatibility. Confirm the board’s requirements before ordering.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you choose switches or a complete keyboard?
If you are repairing or building a board, compare the exact switch model and verify compatibility before choosing a switch kit. If you want a keyboard that is ready to use, look for a complete keyboard whose listing identifies its mechanical switch technology; for example, CHERRY’s MX 2.0S listing describes mechanical key technology and MX technology inside the keyboard.
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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