Matias Linear vs Cherry MX Red?

[pss395]

Hello fellow gher!

First post! I'm considering getting myself a v60 mini with linear switch. So in term of smoothness which one is better, the mx red or the new matias linear switch?

I'll use this board mainly for typing and fps games. The customization of mx switches is nice, but if the Matias is better in terms of feel then the sacrification is worth it for me.

[SamirD]

This is a good question that I'd like to hear feedback on as well.  I've recently discovered that these type of switches may be my brother's cup of tea, and he's already had carpel tunnel release surgery once, so finding the ideal switch for him should be really helpful.

[CPTBadAss]

I really like Matias and Alps switches but I think that the Matias Linears were really bad. They were insanely light. Like 35g actuation. And at the bottom of the travel, there was a slight click. These are advertised as linear and they didn't feel like that to me. I think Cherry Reds are scratchy and too light but better than the Matias Linears.

In all honesty, I'd get Gateron linears instead. They're MX-mount so you can swap em into any MX board.

If you're interested, I also wrote a review on Matias switches and the V80 keyboard.

[SamirD]

Very interesting that you found the Matias linears too light.  That's actually what my brother was saying he prefers--almost zero effort to press the key.  And this is coming from typing on touchscreens where the lightest touch will actuate the 'key'.  I just realized going back and forth for him between that and a real keyboard must be a pain...

[MustacheRabbit]

In all honesty, I'd get Gateron linears instead. They're MX-mount so you can swap em into any MX board.

I have to say that I agree with this idea. Gaterons are insanely smooth when compared to the cherry counterparts, and I have heard of too many complaints when it comes to the Matias linears. The other great thing with Gaterons is that they come with four different linear switches! Yellows, Blacks, Reds and Clears. Yellows are Blacks are generally the same, though they did vary quite widely in the beginning they are identical now with the exception of color. So really, you have three options for your preferred weight. I have heard of folks liking the clears, saying it was like typing on a cloud that had no resistance. Plus, Gaterons are a pretty inexpensive.

[zombimuncha]

Dude said he wanted a V60. I'm pretty sure you can't get a V60 with Gaterons unless you solder them in yourself. Are there any other 60%'s that come with Gaterons as stock?
OP - how keen are you on soldering?