Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts and typists often face a significant challenge when selecting the ideal switch for their needs. The tactile feel, actuation force, and sound profile of a switch are highly personal preferences that are difficult to assess from product descriptions alone. To address this, several brands offer sampler kits or "experience boxes" that allow consumers to physically test a variety of switches before committing to a full keyboard purchase. This article examines the available Cherry MX switch sampler kits, detailing their contents, functionality, and how they can assist in making an informed decision.
Understanding Switch Sampler Kits
A switch sampler kit is a tool designed to simulate the typing experience of a mechanical keyboard. These kits typically consist of a base plate with individual switch sockets, a selection of different switch types, and keycaps. By pressing the switches, users can directly feel the actuation force, travel distance, and feedback (linear, tactile, or clicky) of each switch variant. Some kits also include accessories like sound-dampening O-rings and keycap pullers for further customisation.
The primary purpose of these kits is to provide a hands-on testing environment, reducing the risk of purchasing an unsuitable keyboard. They are particularly valuable for users new to mechanical keyboards or those considering a switch from one type to another.
Available Cherry MX Switch Sampler Kits
Based on the provided source data, several distinct sampler kits are available, each with a different composition of switches and accessories.
Max Keyboard Cherry MX Switch Tester Sampler
This kit, listed on Amazon, is focused exclusively on Cherry MX switches. It features 12 keys, each equipped with a different Cherry MX switch variant. The listed switches include: Cherry MX Black, MX Red, MX Brown, MX Blue, MX RGB Black, MX RGB Red, MX RGB Brown, MX RGB Blue, MX Tactile Gray, MX Green, MX Silent Red, and MX Speed Silver. Each key is mounted on a printed PBT keycap and sits within an acrylic base. The product description notes that it is designed to help users "decide which switch fits you better" by allowing them to test the feel of each switch type. The kit is sold as a single unit, and the source indicates that free returns are available for the item.
MAX Keycap Ultimate Sampler Tester Kit
This more comprehensive kit, available directly from the Max Keyboard website, includes a wider variety of switch types beyond just Cherry MX. The kit is built on a 1.5mm anodized aluminum plate. Its contents are: * Keycaps: 12 in total, comprising 10 colour keycaps and 2 translucent keycaps. * Switches: 8 Cherry MX switch types (Red, Black, Blue, Brown, Green, Gray, Clear, White) and 5 Gateron KS switch types (Red, Black, Blue, Brown, Clear). * Accessories: 8 sound-dampening rubber O-rings and 4 3M clear rubber feet. The product description states that the kit is designed to "simulate the actual typing feeling on a real mechanical keyboard." It also includes a table detailing the characteristics of several Cherry MX switches, such as actuation force and type (linear, tactile & clicky). The source notes that "Some Assembly Required" for this kit.
Cherry MX RGB Switch Kit / Experience Box
Cherry, the original manufacturer of MX switches, offers its own experience kits. One variant is the "Cherry MX RGB Switch Kit" or "MX2A Color Sample," which contains 10 mechanical keyboard switches. The switches are described as "original CHERRY MX switches, developed and manufactured in Germany." The kit is intended for DIY use, hot-swappable keyboards, or as a gaming keyboard experience kit.
Another variant mentioned in the source data is the "MX EXPERIENCE BOX," which contains 10 of Cherry's most popular MX switches. The description explains that this box allows users to test linear, tactile, and clicky switch types to "find the switch that suits you most." Cherry emphasises the durability and reliability of their switches, highlighting features like "CHERRY gold crosspoint contacts (insensitive to dust and dirt)" and a rating of 50 million actuations per switch. The brand also notes its long history, dating back to the production of the first micro switches in 1953 and the beginning of MX switch production in 1983.
Griarrac Cherry MX Switch Tester
This kit, also available on Amazon, is another 12-key tester focused on Cherry MX switches. It includes a keycap puller and switch O-rings. A notable inclusion is the mention of "Cherry MX Silent Speed" among the switches. The kit features printed PBT keycaps on a crystal transparent acrylic base. Like other kits, it includes 24 O-ring samples (12 40A-L and 12 40A-R) to demonstrate the effect of sound dampening on key feel. The product description positions it as a "must-have kit" for anyone planning to purchase a mechanical keyboard.
Key Features and Considerations
When evaluating these sampler kits, several factors are important for UK consumers to consider.
Switch Variety and Representation: The kits offer different ranges of switches. The Max Keyboard and Griarrac kits provide a broad selection of 12 Cherry MX variants, covering linear, tactile, and clicky types, as well as speed and silent editions. The MAX Keycap Ultimate kit expands this to include Gateron switches, which are a popular alternative to Cherry MX. Cherry's own experience box focuses on its core, popular switch types.
Build Quality and Usability: The base materials vary, from acrylic bases (Max Keyboard, Griarrac) to anodized aluminum plates (MAX Keycap). An aluminum plate may offer a more stable and premium feel. The inclusion of a keycap puller (Griarrac) and O-rings (all kits) adds practical value, allowing users to experiment with customisation immediately.
Intended Use: These kits are not full keyboards but testing tools. They can serve as desktop decoration, a way to relieve nervous energy, or a DIY project for enthusiasts who wish to replace switches on an existing keyboard. The source data for the Griarrac kit explicitly mentions that users can "take the switches and replace them on your own keyboard if professional enough."
Purchasing and Returns: For UK-based consumers, availability is primarily through online marketplaces like Amazon or direct brand websites. The Max Keyboard product listing on Amazon specifies free returns, which is a beneficial policy for consumers who may be unsure about the product. Prices vary, with the Cherry MX kit listed at a lower price point (EUR 14.57) compared to the more comprehensive MAX Keycap kit (EUR 30.02). Shipping costs and import fees may apply depending on the seller's location.
How to Use a Switch Sampler Kit Effectively
To gain the most insight from a sampler kit, users should adopt a methodical approach. First, press each switch repeatedly to understand its linear, tactile, or clicky feedback. Compare the actuation force by noting which switches require more pressure. If the kit includes O-rings, experiment with adding them to switches to feel the difference in bottom-out feel and noise reduction. For those with existing keyboards, using the provided keycap puller to swap switches can help assess compatibility and feel in a real-world context.
Conclusion
Switch sampler kits are valuable tools for anyone looking to purchase a mechanical keyboard, offering a practical way to test switches without the commitment of a full-sized board. The available kits from brands like Max Keyboard and Cherry provide a range of options, from basic Cherry MX testers to more comprehensive sets including alternative switches and customisation accessories. For UK consumers, these products are accessible through online retailers, with policies like free returns available on some items. By physically testing switches, users can make a more confident and informed choice tailored to their typing preferences and needs.