Cherry XTRFY Introduces New TMR Gaming Keyboards at CES

Cherry XTRFY, the gaming peripheral sub-brand of Cherry, recently made a significant announcement at this year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES), unveiling two cutting-edge gaming keyboards equipped with Tunnel Magnetoresistance (TMR) switches. This strategic launch signals Cherry's renewed commitment to innovation within the fiercely competitive gaming hardware sector, despite its recent financial hurdles.

Cherry XTRFY's New TMR Gaming Keyboards Unveiled at CES

The spotlight of the announcement fell on the new MX 8.2 Pro TMR keyboard, which Cherry enthusiastically described as being "more than magnetic." This revolutionary device is engineered to deliver lightning-fast wireless performance, boasting a remarkable 8,000 Hz wireless polling rate, alongside reduced power consumption. A standout feature is its hot-swappable switch design, allowing users to effortlessly alternate between TMR and traditional mechanical switches. For those opting for the MK Crystal Magnetic switches, the keyboard offers an impressive 0.01 mm precision for ultra-smooth linear input. Set to hit the market on January 29, this wireless, tenkeyless model will retail for approximately $250.

Following the MX 8.2 Pro TMR, Cherry XTRFY plans to release the K5 Pro TMR keyboard in the spring. This 65% form factor keyboard, an evolution of the wired Cherry Xtrfy K5V2 from 2024, will also feature MK Crystal Magnetic switches and an equally high polling rate of up to 8,000 Hz. Pricing details for the K5 Pro TMR are yet to be disclosed.

While magnetic technology in gaming peripherals is not entirely new, with Hall effect switches having been in use for some time, TMR technology offers a superior degree of precision. However, this advanced precision typically comes at a higher cost. Companies like Monsgeek have already ventured into the TMR keyboard market, indicating that Cherry is joining an evolving trend rather than pioneering it. This move by Cherry is particularly noteworthy given its recent net loss of approximately $23 million last November, suggesting a strategic pivot to regain market share and re-establish its relevance in the gaming keyboard landscape.

This re-entry into the high-performance keyboard market with TMR technology raises questions about Cherry's previously announced mechanical induction switches, which were touted as a more affordable and reliable alternative to analogue options during Computex 2025. It remains uncertain whether these induction switches will ever see a market release. For now, it appears Cherry is embracing a pragmatic approach, focusing on established advanced technologies to compete effectively, signaling an era of strategic adaptation rather than entirely novel invention.

The introduction of these TMR gaming keyboards by Cherry XTRFY highlights an intriguing dynamic in the gaming peripheral industry. It reflects a continuous pursuit of performance and precision, pushing the boundaries of user experience. As a gamer, the prospect of keyboards offering such precise input and customizable features is exciting, promising a competitive edge and a more immersive gaming experience. It also serves as a testament to the resilience of established brands, demonstrating their ability to adapt and innovate in response to market demands and financial pressures. This move could very well mark a turning point for Cherry, allowing it to once again be a contender for the top spot in lists of best gaming keyboards.