Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry Nixie, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Yellow is characterized by its shorter travel, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and pleasant clackiness, this switch is ideal for those looking for a neutral and polished feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a revered classic in the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches blend tradition with modern innovation, providing a low-pitched and thocky typing experience. Each switch offers its own unique characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry Nixie switches both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Gateron Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie employs a nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing. These differences in housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles for each switch, with the Ink Yellow having a sharper sound and the Nixie offering a rounder sound.
However, despite the different housing materials used in the Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry Nixie switches, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. The INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Yellow create a consistent sound profile that is often described as clacky, while the nylon top and bottom housings of the Nixie result in a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the specific material used, both switches offer a unique typing feel and sound that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry Nixie switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow may appeal to those who enjoy a higher-pitched and sharper sound, while the nylon housing of the Nixie is better suited for individuals looking for a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches deliver a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, showcasing the importance of housing material in determining the overall sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Ink Yellow requiring 67 grams and the Nixie needing 80 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly softer typing experience with the Ink Yellow, while the Nixie may provide a firmer and more substantial feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the better choice, while users looking for a more forceful typing experience may opt for the Cherry Nixie. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Nixie has a longer travel distance compared to the Ink Yellow. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance is slightly closer to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, while the Ink Yellow falls on the shorter side at 3.5 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Ink Yellow with its shorter travel distance, while those who appreciate a more substantial key press may prefer the Nixie. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral and clacky typing experience, emitting a moderate and sharp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, known for its deep and satisfying tone. Depending on your preference, the Ink Yellow will give a more moderate sound suitable for various settings, while the Nixie will offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone for a different auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by the switch can also be influenced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and smooth key press. This switch is approachable to most users, with its safe middle-ground qualities and refined finish for reduced friction. On the contrary, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a textured feel, with noticeable friction upon pressing the keys. Some users may prefer this tactile feedback, while others might lean towards a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Ink Yellow and Nixie will depend on your preference for typing feel and feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry Nixie linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Yellow provides a smooth and clacky sound with a polished and gentle feel, the Nixie gives a deep and thocky sound with a textured typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound profile and tactile feedback, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Experimenting with different switches can help you determine which one suits your typing style best, resulting in a pleasurable and efficient keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a smoother and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you, especially if you enjoy a neutral or clacky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier switch with a deep and thocky sound, along with a textured feel, the Cherry Nixie might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
