TKC Kiwi vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Kiwi and the Cherry Nixie are both popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch, offering a satisfying bump at the top of each key press, resulting in an immersive typing experience. Known for its snappy sound profile and smooth factory lubrication, the Kiwi switch is ideal for those who value a tactile typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch, providing a textured typing experience with a substantial heft. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, the Nixie switch combines tradition with modern innovation. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, both the TKC Kiwi and Cherry Nixie utilize different materials for their housing components, with the Kiwi featuring UHWMPE top and bottom housings while the Nixie uses nylon for both. The UHWMPE material in the Kiwi offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, making typing on these switches quite distinctive. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the Nixie contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a rounder and duller sound. While both materials are described as newer and classic respectively, they each bring their unique characteristics to the typing experience.
However, despite their differences, both the Kiwi and Nixie switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their housing materials. The UHWMPE material in the Kiwi and the nylon material in the Nixie both play a crucial role in influencing the sound profile of the switches. While the UHWMPE in the Kiwi offers a brighter and more resonant sound, the nylon in the Nixie provides a deeper and fuller sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Cherry Nixie switches demonstrate how different materials can impact the sound and feel of a switch. The UHWMPE and nylon materials offer distinct sound signatures, with the Kiwi producing brighter and more resonant clacks, while the Nixie delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Nixie's heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi also has a lighter force of 67 grams, in contrast to the Nixie's heavier force of 80 grams, making the Nixie the heavier option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Kiwi may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier forces of the Nixie may suit those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from top to bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent experience for users. While some switches may vary in their travel distance, the TKC Kiwi and Cherry Nixie are on par with each other, providing a similar typing feel in terms of depth. Whether you choose the Kiwi or the Nixie, you can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in a familiar and comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing intents. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying tone reminiscent of a "thud" or "knock." Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, offering a two-stage tactile response with a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the smooth and refined finish of the switch, along with factory lubing, ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as offering a textured feel, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. This texture preference may vary among users, with some favoring a subtle texture while others prefer a smoother typing experience without friction.
In conclusion, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Kiwi switch focuses on a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Nixie switch provides a thocky sound and a textured typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if a similar outcome is desired, both switches can provide a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Nixie may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and smoothness (Kiwi) or heft and texture (Nixie) in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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