Hot-Swap & Low Profile: Cherry’s new office keyboards at a glance

At CES 2025, Cherry introduced a range of new keyboards designed specifically for office use. In addition to customizable mechanical switches, the focus of the new products is on slim design and flexible connection options.

What makes the Cherry KW 300 MX so special?

With the KW 300 MX, Cherry is bringing a mechanical keyboard onto the market that is intended to be tailored to the individual needs of users. The special highlight: The built-in switches can be exchanged, which means that different typing feelings can be achieved depending on your preference. This so-called hot-swap technology, which has so far been more common with mechanical keyboards in the gaming sector, is likely to find its way into classic office environments for the first time.

The model also has a white backlight with several brightness levels, which can be regulated using a switch on the keyboard. The dual-mode function, which enables both wired and wireless connections via Bluetooth with up to three devices, is also practical. For users of Apple devices, special Mac keycaps are included, which can also be easily replaced. According to the manufacturer, the recommended retail price is 109.99 euros.

Technical highlights of the KW 300 MX:

• Cherry MX2A switch: Smooth and quiet keystroke.
• PBT-Double-Shot-Tastenkappen: Robust and durable.
• Dual-mode connectivity: Connection via USB Type-C or Bluetooth 5.2 (up to three devices).
• Security features: AES-128 encryption.
• Backlight: White LEDs with ten brightness levels.
• Mac compatibility: Additional replaceable keycaps.

What advantages does the Cherry KW 550 MX LP offer?

Another innovation is the KW 550 MX LP, which is characterized by its flat profile and compact format. This model uses Cherry’s own low-profile switches, which are intended to ensure a quiet and precise typing experience. Despite its compact design, the keyboard is sturdily constructed and equipped with durable PBT keycaps, which are characterized by high wear resistance.

Flexibility is also the focus of this model: the keyboard offers both USB and Bluetooth support for connecting to multiple devices. Fold-out feet to adjust the angle of inclination and a dimmable backlight are further features. The recommended retail price is 119.99 euros.

Technical highlights of the KW 550 MX LP:

• Cherry MX Low Profile 2.0 switch: Smooth typing with improved sound.
• PBT keycaps: High wear resistance and comfortable typing feeling.
• Dual-mode connectivity: USB or Bluetooth (up to three devices).
• Ergonomic adjustment: Fold-out feet for angle adjustment.
• Status display: LED indicator for battery status.

What sets the KC 500 MX LP apart?

The new office portfolio is rounded off by the KC 500 MX LP, which will be released in a full-size version and a compact TKL version (without a numeric keypad). Both versions are equipped with the same low-profile switches as the KW 550 MX LP and are aimed at users who value a minimalist look with high functionality.

Particularly noteworthy is the stable construction of the keyboard, which is reinforced by a metal plate despite its slim design. Depending on their individual taste, users can choose between a black and a warm gray color variant. The price for the larger version is said to be 109.99 euros, while the compact TKL version is offered for 99.99 euros.

Technical highlights of the KC 500 MX LP (TKL):

• MX Low Profile 2.0 switch: Quiet and precise.
• Metal plate construction: High stability despite slim design.
• Backlight and status LEDs: For better visibility.
• Color selection: Black or warm gray.

Further information about the new models can be found on the manufacturer’s website cherry.de available.