KTT Miaowu vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry Nixie stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts. The Miaowu, a linear switch, is renowned for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to its utilization of POK in the stem. It offers a 'bouncy' and 'clacky' typing experience, which can be appealing for those who prefer a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie, also a linear switch, is cherished for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, made possible by Cherry's latest MX2A update. With a 'textured', 'thocky', and 'low-pitched' profile, the Nixie provides a unique typing sensation that some users may find more satisfying. 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
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry Nixie is the top housing. The Miaowu uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Nixie utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the polycarbonate of the Miaowu is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic advantage.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Miaowu and the Nixie use nylon. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches because nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. The relatively softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. Therefore, the bottom housing materials of these switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and overall typing feel.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry Nixie differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, the bottom housing materials are the same. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel originating from the bottom housing. However, the top housing materials contribute different characteristics to the switches, with the polycarbonate of the Miaowu providing a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile of the Nixie's nylon top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch differ significantly. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a stronger typing experience. The Miaowu switch is lighter overall, while the Nixie switch is heavier. For users seeking longer typing sessions, the Miaowu may be more suitable, while those looking for a more robust typing experience might prefer the Nixie. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Nixie being more towards the standard 4.0 mm mark. Gamers may prefer the Miaowu for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Nixie with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy noise when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a thocky sound, delivering a deep and satisfying tone with a low-pitched quality. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, you can expect a distinct auditory experience from each switch.
Moving on to the feel, the Miaowu switch provides a bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its textured feel, which can create noticeable friction when keys are pressed. Some users may appreciate the added texture for tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience without the friction.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, appealing to users looking for a responsive and energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky sound and a textured feel, catering to those who enjoy a deep, rich sound profile and tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences in sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. If you enjoy one aspect of either switch, such as the bouncy feel of the Miaowu switch or the low-pitched sound of the Nixie switch, you can expect a similar level of satisfaction when using either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, key feel, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy, smooth keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured, satisfying typing experience with a deep thocky sound, the Cherry Nixie switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and what features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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