Sparkfun Cherry MX2A Keyswitch - Red

The Cherry MX2A Red is a linear mechanical keyswitch crafted for custom and replacement keyboards, as well as embedded human-machine interfaces. Known for its precision, consistency, and longevity, this switch is a favorite among keyboard manufacturers, makers, and enthusiasts. The MX2A generation enhances the original MX design with factory-applied lubrication, an optimized spring, and refined housing geometry, resulting in smoother key travel, reduced spring noise, and an improved typing experience. It remains compatible with standard MX keycaps and PCBs.

The MX2A Red provides a smooth, linear keypress without a tactile bump or audible click, making it ideal for gaming and rapid repeated keystrokes. Its consistent travel and low actuation force offer an uninterrupted keystroke from top to bottom, catering to users who prefer a seamless typing experience.

Designed to withstand up to 100 million actuations, the MX2A incorporates several innovations. The upper housing is CAD-engineered with sub-0.01mm tolerances for precise switching-slide guidance. The linear switching slide/stem controls pre-travel and keystroke feel with a straight TLS surface, delivering direct triggering and the classic linear characteristics of the MX Red.

The gold crosspoint contact features self-cleaning, gold-plated triangular cross-contacts that meet at precise right angles, ensuring permanent corrosion protection. The precision coil spring, with its high-density molecular structure, is optimized to provide consistent pressure resistance for the switch's specific actuation force.

The dual-functional housing base, made from a plastic polymer/glass-fiber blend, serves as both the internal mount for the switching mechanism and the external mounting surface for the keyboard. Additionally, the housing includes a built-in recess for a standard 3mm LED, allowing for easy illumination under a key cap. For prototype integration, a matching breakout board simplifies wiring.