CHERRY Releases MX Northern Light Switch Focused on Quiet Operation and Unique Design
CHERRY has announced the launch of a new mechanical keyboard switch, the MX Northern Light Switch, under the model number MX2A-8C7D. The switch is part of CHERRY’s MX2A series, which emphasizes smooth linear actuation and refined build quality. According to CHERRY, the Northern Light Switch was designed entirely in-house and is intended to deliver one of the quietest and most consistent typing experiences in the company’s product lineup.
The MX Northern Light is a linear switch with a 45-gram actuation force and a pre-travel distance of 1.9 millimeters. The total travel distance measures 3.7 millimeters, aligning it closely with the specifications of the popular MX Red. The switch is rated for a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes and includes IP40-level protection against dust, making it suitable for long-term use in desktop keyboards.
The MX Northern Light emphasizes noise reduction, featuring silicone strips along both sides of the switch stem. These strips help dampen the sound when the switch bottoms out and rebounds. CHERRY designed this structural enhancement to deliver what it describes as a “library-level” quiet typing experience, making it ideal for shared or quiet environments—no need for extra modifications like foam dampeners or o-rings.
In terms of design, the MX Northern Light takes inspiration from the Northern Lights, reflected in its translucent white top housing and distinctive blue base. The translucent top is designed to diffuse RGB lighting more effectively, creating a softer and more uniform glow compared to standard switch housings. The blue bottom housing also makes the switch visually identifiable from other CHERRY models, offering a clean aesthetic for builds that feature transparent or open keycaps.
The MX Northern Light is positioned as a premium switch for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize acoustics and feel. According to CHERRY, the switch is the result of input from its internal team of switch developers and is aimed at the broader keyboard community.
The switch is available on MechKeys at a price of $34.99 for a 35-piece pack, placing it in the mid-to-high-end segment of the mechanical switch market. This pricing puts the Northern Light Switch slightly above standard offerings like the MX Red or MX Black, likely due to its specialized components and new design features.
