Gateron Glory Red vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the Cherry Nixie stand out as two popular options, each offering distinct attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches are celebrated for their lightweight design and smooth keystroke, providing a delightful typing experience with a comfortable travel distance that encourages long typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches boast a more substantial heft and a textured feel, allowing users to enjoy a robust typing experience characterized by their "thocky" sound profile and low-pitched feedback, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. While the Glory Reds may appeal to those who prioritize a seamless touch and speed, the Nixies might attract those who appreciate a traditional, tactile feel with a more pronounced audio feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red switches to the Cherry Nixie switches, it becomes evident that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice results in a similar acoustic profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The nylon used in both switches contributes to a sound that is notably quieter and offers a rounder tone, largely due to its softer plastic properties. As typing noise is often a significant consideration for keyboards, both the Glory Red and Nixie switches naturally exhibit a muted auditory experience that is appealing to users seeking a more subdued keyboard sound.
Despite sharing the same nylon construction, the differences in other aspects of the switches, such as their actuation force and travel distance, could still lead to differing tactile experiences. While the material properties contribute to the overall sound profiling, it is important to note that the feel of each switch will be influenced primarily by internal components, such as the spring and stem design. Thus, while both switches deliver a similar sonic signature due to their nylon housings, typing on a Glory Red versus a Nixie will produce distinct tactile sensations. The handling of the switches ultimately shapes the user's preference, revealing that even with similar materials, there is potential for varied user experiences.
In summary, the Gateron Glory Red and Cherry Nixie switches both benefit from the use of nylon in both their top and bottom housings, which grants them a soft, quiet, and lush sound experience. This congruence in materials suggests that if sound profile is the primary concern, users can expect similar acoustic outcomes from either switch. However, individual preferences in terms of feel and tactile feedback may still influence a user's ultimate choice, underscoring that while material can unify sound characteristics, the defining experience will hinge on the unique properties of each switch’s internal mechanics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Glory Red features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions due to reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Glory Red is not specified, the Nixie's bottom out force is a robust 80 grams. This indicates that the Nixie, being heavier overall, offers more resistance both at actuation and when fully depressed, while the Glory Red remains more user-friendly for longer use due to its lighter actuation force. As such, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience should gravitate towards the Glory Red, while those who favor a firmer push should consider the Cherry Nixie.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, the Glory Red measures at 3.6 mm, while the Nixie is slightly longer at 4 mm. This makes the Glory Red the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances typically facilitate faster actuation. Conversely, the Nixie's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced depth that some users prefer for a more tactile feel when typing. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Glory Red would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a fuller key press might lean towards the Cherry Nixie.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Red switches typically deliver a quieter typing experience compared to the Cherry Nixie switches. While the Glory Red switches are known for their smooth keystrokes, the Nixie switches are celebrated for their thocky sound profile, producing a deep, rich tone with a satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" when activated. The low-pitched sound of the Nixie adds to its desirability, creating a more substantial auditory feedback that many typists find rewarding. Additionally, it's worth noting that sound can vary greatly depending on the keyboard housing and keycap choice, so personal preferences can influence the overall acoustics.
Regarding the feel of these switches, the Gateron Glory Red switches are recognized for a smooth keystroke that promotes a comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches offer a textured typing sensation, introducing a noticeable friction that some users appreciate while typing. This friction adds a unique tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy for those who prefer a more engaged experience. Depending on individual preferences, the smooth feel of the Glory Red and the textured feel of the Nixie cater to different types of users, making it essential to consider what kind of tactile sensation is most enjoyable for personal use.
In summary, if you prioritize auditory feedback, the Cherry Nixie switches provide a satisfying thocky sound while the Gateron Glory Red switches offer a quieter experience. In terms of feel, Glory Reds are smoother and more predictable, appealing to those seeking a clean keystroke, while Nixies provide a textured challenge that some typists favor. Ultimately, both switches cater to different aesthetic and tactile preferences, allowing users to choose according to their unique typing styles and auditory enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, your preferences and typing habits will play a significant role. If you're seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with a lighter touch, the Gateron Glory Red is an excellent choice. Its ease of actuation makes it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are essential. However, if you appreciate a more substantial feel with a satisfying tactile response and a thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie might be right for you. Its 80-gram bottom out force offers the heft and textured feedback that many typists adore, providing a more immersive experience reminiscent of classic mechanical switches. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a switch are most important to you—whether you value a light, gleaming touch or a deep, rich keystroke experience, each switch has its unique appeal tailored to different preferences.
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