TTC Gold Red vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry Nixie, both of which are linear switches. The Gold Red is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, while also offering a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too loud. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation through updated materials and springs. While the Gold Red may appeal to those looking for a subtle and polished typing experience, the Nixie may be more suitable for those who prefer a textured and thocky feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry Nixie switches provide unique characteristics to their overall sound profiles. While the Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, the Cherry Nixie utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. Both materials have their advantages, with polycarbonate being ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while nylon is known for its classic feel and sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Gold Red and the Cherry Nixie switches feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This common material choice gives both switches a similar feel and sound when typing, providing a consistent experience for users who prefer the qualities of nylon. However, the split between the top and bottom housing materials means that each switch will have slightly different characteristics when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry Nixie switches play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, the Nixie's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound absorption and feel. Despite these differences, each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of individual users based on their desired sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The Gold Red offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming, while the Nixie gives a more forceful keystroke, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring a smooth and predictable keystroke. Whether you choose the Gold Red or the Nixie, you can expect similar results when it comes to the distance the switch travels.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 $4.15.
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 linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a neutral overall tone. This creates a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch also provides a thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, resulting in a bass-heavy and mellow sound. Both switches offer a pleasing typing experience in terms of sound, with the Gold Red being slightly more neutral compared to the Nixie.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized by its mild, silky, subtle, and polished qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. The Cherry Nixie linear switch, however, is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. While the Gold Red switch focuses on silky smoothness and polished feel, the Nixie switch offers a more tactile and textured typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the smoothness of the Gold Red or the textured feel of the Nixie.
Considering all the available information, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Gold Red provides a neutral sound with a smooth and polished feel, the Nixie delivers a textured typing experience with a deep and mellow sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel, with both switches guaranteeing a quality typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter touch and a smoother feel with a touch of personality in sound, the Gold Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a textured feel and a more substantial sound profile, the Nixie might be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and switch weight. Trust your instincts and choose the switch that suits your typing style best.
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