Gazzew LT vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gazzew LT and the Cherry Nixie may seem daunting at first. The Gazzew LT, a linear switch, is revered for its enticing lilac hue and the deep, resonant thockiness that accompanies every keystroke. With a seamless glide and a classification of bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, the LT offers a unique auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie, also a linear switch, is a classic choice known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. By incorporating modern updates from Cherry's MX2A update, the Nixies blend tradition with innovation, offering a classification of textured, thocky, and low-pitched. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the Cherry Nixie both feature housing materials that contribute to a rich and deep sound profile. The LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, while the Nixie uses nylon for its top housing. Both materials are praised for their softness, which helps create a more muted and round sound compared to harder plastics. This softness allows for a more satisfying typing experience, as the switches produce a deeper and fuller sound when pressed.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gazzew LT and Cherry Nixie also share similarities in their choice of materials. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, while the Nixie uses nylon for its bottom housing. Both materials are known for their ability to absorb sound, resulting in a more dampened and less sharp bottom-out sound. This added absorption creates a more satisfying typing experience, as the switches feel smoother and less harsh when bottoming out.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Gazzew LT and Cherry Nixie may differ in material, both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The softness of the materials used in both switches contributes to a more muted and round sound, making for a more satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the proprietary Gazzew blend or nylon, the housing materials of both switches serve to enhance the overall sound profile and feel of each keystroke.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch reveals some differences in weight. The Gazzew LT has a lighter actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force of 65 grams provides a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie has a slightly heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, requiring a bit more pressure to activate keystrokes, and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gazzew LT, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Cherry Nixie for a more robust typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the Nixie's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the LT switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Nixie switch might provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer more depth when pressing down on keys. Both switches offer different options to cater to different preferences, with the LT providing a shorter and the Nixie offering a longer travel distance for users to choose from based on their individual preferences.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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, both the Gazzew LT and the Cherry Nixie switches are described as thocky and low-pitched. This means that users can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile with both switches, resembling a deep "thud" or "knock" when keys are pressed and released. The LT switches offer a bassy element to their sound, providing an even deeper and more resonant auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gazzew LT switches do not have a specific descriptor provided in the information given. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches are described as textured, indicating that they offer noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can provide users with a unique tactile sensation during typing, which may be preferred by some individuals seeking a more engaging and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew LT and Cherry Nixie switches offer thocky and low-pitched sound profiles, providing users with a deep and satisfying auditory experience. While the LT switches add a bassy element to their sound, the Nixie switches bring a textured feel to the typing experience. As a newcomer exploring mechanical keyboard switches, choosing between these two options will ultimately depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as how these switches complement the overall design and build of your keyboard setup. Overall, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality with both switches, with a slight variation in the tactile feel they provide.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a rich, bassy sound profile, then the Gazzew LT might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and appreciate a textured typing feel with a deep, thocky sound, then the Cherry Nixie may be the ideal switch for your setup. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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