TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience suitable for various tasks such as gaming, office work, and casual typing. Its neutral sound signature makes it a harmonious choice for any environment. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is renowned for its classic feel and substantial heft, accompanied by a textured typing experience that exudes a sense of tradition. 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
43g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Cherry Nixie's nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in material stiffness plays a significant role, with polycarbonate being stiffer and creating a more resonant sound, while nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, whereas the nylon housing offers a classic look.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the differences in top housings between the Gold Red Pro and the Cherry Nixie impact the overall sound profile when pressing down and letting go of a key.
The division of housing materials in a switch, such as having a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, allows for a mix of characteristics in the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key. This split in housing materials provides a unique typing experience that combines the benefits of both materials. Overall, the choice between the Gold Red Pro and the Cherry Nixie will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there are noticeable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Nixie's heavier 63.5 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the Nixie has a heavy 80 grams bottom out force. This means that the Nixie switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Nixie being heavier and the Gold Red Pro potentially lighter unless it is closer to or heavier than the Nixie's bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Nixie's 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the slight variation may result in a different typing experience for users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Nixie. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched profile, creating a neutral and satisfying typing experience suitable for any setting. Similarly, the Cherry Nixie switch also provides a thocky sound with low-pitched tones, resulting in a classic and bass-heavy feel. Both switches deliver a pleasant auditory experience, making them ideal choices for users seeking a harmonious typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, combining smooth key travel with reduced friction for a refined feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, offering noticeable friction that may cater to users who prefer a more tactile typing sensation. While the Gold Red Pro focuses on a polished and gentle typing experience, the Nixie provides a more textured and pronounced feel, appealing to users seeking a unique tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry Nixie linear switches bring their own set of qualities to the table. The Gold Red Pro excels in providing a neutral and versatile sound signature, coupled with a polished and silky typing feel. On the other hand, the Nixie offers a classic thocky sound with a textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovations. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can achieve similar results with either switch, as both cater to different typing styles and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. It ultimately comes down to individual preference and the specific typing experience each user desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry Nixie linear switches, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a neutral sound profile that's adaptable to various settings, the Gold Red Pro would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a more traditional textured typing experience, the Nixie would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you when typing.
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