Bsun Avocado vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Avocado and the Cherry Nixie are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Avocado is a tactile switch that is known for its snappy and responsive bump, providing a buttery downstroke and satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Nixie is a linear switch with a substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation thanks to Cherry's updated materials and springs. While the Avocado is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', the Nixie is labeled as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Cherry Nixie, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This means that users can expect a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile from both switches, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clear, resonant sound. However, the Nixie features a nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition and sound-absorbing properties. In this aspect, the Nixie may offer a more rounded and muted sound compared to the Avocado.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the bottom housing material. While both the Avocado and the Nixie feature nylon for their bottom housings, the impact of this material on the overall sound profile may vary. Nylon's softer composition and sound-absorbing properties are likely to influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can give the Nixie a unique typing experience compared to the Avocado, which may have a different bottom-out sound and feel due to its polycarbonate bottom housing.
In essence, while the Avocado and the Nixie share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Avocado's polycarbonate bottom housing may contribute to a sharper sound profile, while the Nixie's nylon bottom housing likely adds a deeper and fuller sound to the overall typing experience. Users looking for a switch with a clearer, more resonant sound may prefer the Avocado, while those seeking a softer, more rounded sound may find the Nixie to be a better fit.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Avocado is lighter in comparison to the Nixie. The Avocado has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Avocado offers a lighter touch ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Nixie provides a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Nixie due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Avocado for its faster actuation, while those who prefer a deeper keypress experience may lean towards the Nixie. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference, with the Avocado providing a shorter travel distance for quicker inputs and the Nixie offering a longer travel distance for a more pronounced keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Bsun Avocado switch is known for its mild and neutral sound profile, providing a subtle background noise to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep and satisfying auditory feedback when pressed. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, your choice of keyboard and keycaps can also influence the overall sound produced.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a tactile experience that is responsive, immersive, and distinct with each keypress. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, providing a different tactile sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. The Nixie's substantial heft and traditional design combine with modern innovations to offer a unique typing experience that differs from the Avocado's more pronounced tactility.
Overall, the Bsun Avocado and Cherry Nixie switches each offer their own subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Avocado presents a tactile experience characterized by a responsive bump and a mild sound signature, while the Nixie's textured feel and thocky sound profile cater to a different typing preference. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different setups can help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile typing experience with a medium-to-heavy bottom out force, the BSUN Avocado switches would be an excellent choice for you. They offer a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming and have a mild, neutral sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie switches would be more suitable for you. They are known for their substantial heft and modern innovation, offering a deep, rich sound when pressed. Ultimately, the decision between the Avocado and Nixie switches comes down to your preference for tactility and sound in your typing experience.
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