Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Blue stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback. While the Nixie offers a 'Thocky' and low-pitched typing experience, the Blue switch provides a more traditional clicky feel. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue switches, we can see that the Nixie utilizes a nylon top housing while the Blue features a polycarbonate top housing. While both materials have their unique qualities, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, and polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, they ultimately cater to different preferences. The Nixie's nylon top housing may appeal to those who prefer a more muffled and rounder sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing might be preferred by those who enjoy a clearer and resonant sound with RGB lighting capabilities.
On the flip side, when we look at the bottom housings of the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Blue switches, we find that both switches use nylon for this component. This means that both switches offer a similar deep and full sound profile due to the absorption properties of nylon. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to creating a duller and rounder sound, regardless of the switch brand. Therefore, if sound profile consistency is a priority for a user, either switch with a nylon bottom housing would provide similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The differing top housing materials of nylon for the Nixie and polycarbonate for the Blue offer unique sound characteristics, with the Nixie providing a deeper sound while the Blue offers a sharper sound with RGB lighting capabilities. However, the similarity in the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures consistent sound and feel in the bottom-out action, making either switch a reliable option for those seeking a switch with a deep and full sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Nixie has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Blue's lighter 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Nixie again proves to be heavier with 80 grams, while the Blue's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the Nixie switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel both for actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, the Blue switch offers a lighter actuation force which may be preferred by those who want a more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel while typing.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. In terms of comparing and contrasting, the only difference would be in the type of switch - linear for the Cherry Nixie and clicky for the Outemu Blue. Linear switches offer a smooth and consistent keystroke, while clicky switches provide audible and tactile feedback with each keypress. Overall, both switches offer the same travel distance, providing a familiar 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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, creating a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, offering a tactile typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. In comparison, there is no specific feel descriptor available for the Outemu Blue clicky switch. The textured feel of the Nixie switch may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing.
Overall, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and Outemu Blue clicky switch offer different characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Nixie switch provides a thocky sound and a textured typing experience, while details about the Blue switch in these aspects are unknown. It is important for newcomers to consider their preferences in sound and feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, as these qualities can greatly impact their overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but individuals should choose based on their personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing feel, the Cherry Nixie may be the better choice for you. The Nixie is also known for its deep and low-pitched sound profile, which can enhance the typing experience for some users. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a lighter touch, the Outemu Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most.
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