Jerrzi Coral vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Coral and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Coral and Cherry Nixie both offer unique qualities worth exploring. The Coral switch is celebrated for its distinctively crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, providing a sophisticated and stellar performance with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs for a blend of tradition and modern innovation. While the Coral is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Silky', the Nixie is labeled as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to offer, providing users with a variety of options to consider. 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
40g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Coral and the Cherry Nixie both feature nylon bottom housings, which means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the Coral's polycarbonate top housing differs from the Nixie's nylon top housing. The Coral's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, adding a level of clarity and resonance to the sound. This contrast in top housing materials between the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
On the other hand, the similarities in the top housing materials of the Jerrzi Coral and the Cherry Nixie can also lead to comparable results. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and more resonant sound compared to softer plastics. This means that users can expect a similar level of clarity and higher pitch in the sound profiles of both switches. However, the differences lie in the bottom housing materials. While both switches have nylon bottom housings, the way in which the switches absorb sound and impact the overall sound profile can vary between the two models.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Jerrzi Coral and the Cherry Nixie play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of each switch. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings can lead to contrasting sound profiles, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Coral producing a sharper sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Nixie. However, the shared nylon bottom housing between the two switches ensures a similar depth and fullness in sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that they have notable differences. The Coral has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. Additionally, the Nixie also has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, unlike the Coral which is unavailable. These variations affect the typing experience significantly. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Coral switch for a smoother typing experience, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the Nixie switch. Ultimately, the difference in actuation and bottom out force between the two switches allows users to customize their keyboard to their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Coral. The Coral's 3.7 mm distance falls on the shorter side of the spectrum, making it a good choice for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Nixie's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Overall, both switches offer similar performance, but the slight difference in travel distance can cater to individual preferences for responsiveness and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Coral linear switch is known for its low-pitched resonance, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that adds a sophisticated touch to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as thocky, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the Nixie offers a more pronounced and textured sound compared to the Coral.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is praised for its silky typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth feel that enhances the overall typing sensation by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the Nixie for a more tactile typing experience, while others may lean towards the smoother feel of the Coral.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Coral excels in providing a lower-pitched sound and silky typing feel for a refined and sophisticated experience, while the Nixie offers a thocky sound and textured typing feel for a more substantial and tactile sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer top-notch performance that can elevate any typing experience to new heights.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a distinctively crisp and lower-pitched typing feel, the Coral switch would be your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a deep and satisfying thocky sound, the Nixie switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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