Bsun Cliff vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and Cherry Nixie represent two distinct approaches to tactile feedback and typing experience. The Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility paired with a crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the sensation of feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie, a linear switch, is celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern enhancements from the recent MX2A update. Its low-pitched and thocky feel provides a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience that many users prefer for fast-paced gaming or heavy typing. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, leading to unique benefits in usability and satisfaction. 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
37g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Cherry Nixie switches present an intriguing comparison in their housing materials, particularly in relation to their top constructions. The Cliff’s top housing is made from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for producing a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This quality enhances the clarity of the sound produced, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for dynamic light effects. In contrast, the Nixie switch utilizes nylon for its top housing, which inherently offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in their top housing materials directly impacts the overall typing feel and sound, creating a distinctive user experience for each switch.
When analyzing the bottom housing of both switches, the similarity becomes apparent. Both the Bsun Cliff and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon for their bottom housings. As a well-established housing material, nylon provides a similar auditory quality in both switches—a deeper and fuller sound profile. This uniformity in material suggests that the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent across both models, as the softer nature of nylon aids in sound absorption, promoting a tactile and rounded experience. Thus, while the top housings differ significantly, the bottom housing remains a shared characteristic that paves the way for comparable acoustic outcomes.
In summary, the combination of different top housing materials and the matching bottom housings results in an engaging contrast between the Bsun Cliff and the Cherry Nixie switches. The distinct sound profiles created by their top housings set the stage for a unique typing experience, while the consistent use of nylon for the bottoms allows for a more cohesive auditory result upon bottoming out. Consequently, those who appreciate the clarity of polycarbonate might prefer the Cliff, whereas those who favor timbral warmth may lean towards the Nixie. The interplay of materials thus shapes the overall functionality of the switches, rendering a multifaceted approach to sound and feel in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged use such as work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Nixie has a significantly heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to users who favor a more substantial push and tactile feedback when typing. This difference indicates that the Cliff switch promotes easier keystrokes, while the Nixie switch is designed for those who enjoy a firmer key response. As a result, typists looking for a lighter feel would gravitate towards the Bsun Cliff, whereas those desiring a heavier and more deliberate typing experience would opt for the Cherry Nixie.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Bsun Cliff has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry Nixie features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option, appealing for those seeking quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the Nixie's 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional and substantial feel, which can be preferred by users who appreciate a fuller key press. In summary, those who prefer the faster, more responsive nature of shorter travel distances may gravitate towards the Bsun Cliff, while individuals looking for a more robust typing experience might opt for the Cherry Nixie.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature, making each key press distinctly audible. This quality provides a satisfying feedback loop that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a thocky sound that delivers a deep, rich tone upon actuation, reminiscent of a bass-heavy thud or soft knock. This low-pitched auditory feedback, preferred by many typists for its soothing nature, contrasts with the more pronounced and clear auditory character of the Cliff.
In terms of feel, the Cliff switch offers a medium tactility, providing noticeable feedback without being overwhelming. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a slight bump during actuation without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch presents a somewhat textured experience, characterized by a certain friction when pressed. This texture can appeal to those who appreciate a more tactile engagement with every keystroke, as it adds a unique nuance to the typing experience that differentiates it from smoother switches.
In summary, while both the Bsun Cliff tactile and Cherry Nixie linear switches serve their distinct purposes in the mechanical keyboard world, they deliver different auditory and tactile experiences. The Cliff stands out with its crisp sound profile and medium tactility, making it suitable for users who want perceptible feedback without an overwhelming experience. The Nixie excels in providing a rich, thocky sound and a textured feel, appealing to those who enjoy deeper auditory cues and a bit of friction in their typing. Your choice between these switches will ultimately hinge on whether you prioritize sound clarity and tactility or a thocky resonance and textural touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter switch that provides a distinct tactile feedback and a crisp sound signature during typing, the Bsun Cliff is an excellent option, especially for extended typing sessions where comfort is key. Its medium tactility allows for satisfying feedback without being overly strenuous on your fingers. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier switch that delivers a more substantial and textured typing experience, then the Cherry Nixie might be what you’re looking for. The Nixie’s thocky sound profile and textured feel offer a deeply satisfying sensation, making it ideal for users who appreciate robust resistance and a classic typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your tactile preferences, typing style, and the overall sound signature you appreciate most in a mechanical keyboard.
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