CORSAIR MLX Red key switches: Our smoothest switch yet

The release of the CORSAIR K70 CORE RGB also marks the debut of our third CORSAIR-developed mechanical keyswitch. That’s right, joining the esteemed ranks alongside the OPX and MGX switches, say hello to the CORSAIR MLX Red mechanical key switches. Well get into where it sits in our line-up momentarily, but let's start with the specs.

• Actuation force: 45g
• Pre-travel/actuation distance: 1.9mm
• Total travel: 4.0mm
• Lifespan: 70 million keystrokes
• Lubrication: Pre-lubed

Those familiar with mechanical keyboards will notice that these land straight into the regular specs for a linear key switch, albeit with a slightly shorter total travel than usual. This means the MLX switches are slightly quicker and more responsive than a traditional red switch.

Lubricating mechanical key switches has been popular with enthusiasts for years. This makes sense as it creates some very noticeable improvements. A smoother keystroke is more enjoyable for typing, and lubrication between any moving parts will always have auditory benefits. Combined with the two damping layers in the CORSAIR K70 CORE RGB, the CORSAIR MLX Red switches have a sound and tactile signature rivaling that of custom switches.

Additionally, anyone who’s ever lubed their own switches knows that while the result is delightful, the process itself is tedious and messy and honestly not as easy as it sounds. At present the MLX Red switches aren’t hot swappable, so asking the user to lubricate the switches themselves would be unreasonable. Hence the pre-lubrication from the factory. At time of writing, MLX switches are exclusive to the K70 CORE RGB, though they’ll be making their way to future keyboards for sure.

Over the last couple years we’ve introduced a few different types of switches, all known by a 3-letter initialism. Understandably, you might find it difficult to know which is the best option for you. So, let’s talk about that.

Our current switch range comprises three linear switches. Despite this, they are all focused towards different tactile and performance goals.

The OPX switches are purely performance oriented. With significantly shorter pre-travel, total travel, and optical actuation technology, these are the best value option for competitive players. They’re also available on a wider range of our keyboards at the time of writing.

The MGX switches are magnetic, meaning that you can change the actuation point per key, making them potentially better for competitive performance. Additionally, they allow for the soon-to-be released Rapid Trigger functionality. However, currently they’re only available in the CORSAIR K70 MAX, which might exceed the budget of many users.

The CORSAIR MLX Red switches by comparison have been designed for an enjoyable typing and gaming experience, with competitive performance less of a concern. The light, linear and smooth actuation in addition to the aforementioned factory lubrication makes these our best switches if a custom mechanical keyboard experience is what you’re after.