Cherry MX Black vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The MX Black is a linear switch best known for its Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, providing a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Nixie is also a linear switch that is revered within the keyboard community for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to Cherry's updated materials and springs. The MX Black is categorized as low-pitched, textured, stiff, while the Nixie falls under textured, thocky, low-pitched. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different types of typists; 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
80g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and Cherry Nixie switches both utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastic housings. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, while both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of each housing may vary slightly. The qualities of the bottom housing of a switch, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, may differ slightly between the MX Black and Nixie switches. The top housing, on the other hand, may have more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. These subtle differences in housing design may result in slightly varying typing experiences between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and Cherry Nixie switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound. Both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon as the housing material, but any variations in housing design may result in slight differences in sound and feel when typing. Ultimately, users may need to test both switches to determine which one best suits their preferences for typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch is 60 grams, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has an actuation force of 63.5 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 80 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. The MX Black is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Nixie, but both provide a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Some users may find the lighter actuation force of the MX Black more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Nixie for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience between the two switches will be consistent in terms of key feel and actuation. Despite any other differences between the two switches, their equal travel distance provides a comparable typing experience for users.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying, akin to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" upon key press and release. Both switches fall into the low-pitched category, providing a pleasant auditory experience for users. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Cherry MX Black and Nixie linear switches are described as textured, meaning they have noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can provide tactile feedback and enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a bit of resistance. The MX Black switch is also noted for its stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. In contrast, information on the feel of the Nixie switch is not provided, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect between the two switches. Nonetheless, if they both fall under the textured category, users can expect a similar tactile experience.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Black and Nixie linear switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The MX Black provides a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, while the Nixie offers a thocky sound and a textured typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, either switch could be a suitable choice. It's recommended to try out both switches in person if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy linear switch with a classic smooth typing experience and a deep sound profile, you may want to choose the Cherry MX Black switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier linear switch with a textured typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switches may be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for typing feel and sound when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience and are well-loved within the keyboard community.
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