Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing two linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Dustproof Red, it's important to note their key characteristics. The Cherry Nixie is a revered classic in the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, these switches offer a blend of tradition and modern innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red doesn't have as much of a reputation but is categorized as a linear switch. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Cherry Nixie is described as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', while the Outemu Dustproof Red has no specific characteristics listed. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
63.5g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
The Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Dustproof Red both feature nylon as the material for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Nixie uses nylon for its top housing, while the Dustproof Red uses polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. This contrast in top housing material between the two switches results in a difference in sound profile and overall typing experience.
Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Red allows for a clear housing, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This translucency adds a visually appealing element to the Dustproof Red, while the nylon top housing of the Cherry Nixie provides a more traditional and classic look. In terms of sound, the differences in the top housing material lead to distinct sound profiles, with the Nixie offering a deeper and fuller sound, and the Dustproof Red producing a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches may share a nylon bottom housing, but the contrasting top housing materials result in unique typing experiences for users.
While the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Dustproof Red share a common bottom housing material of nylon, the use of different materials for their top housing creates distinct sound profiles. The Nixie's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in top housing material highlights the importance of materials in shaping the overall typing experience of a switch. Whether you prefer a more traditional, rounder sound with the Nixie or a sharper, more resonant sound with the Dustproof Red, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the performance and aesthetics of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is evident that the Nixie is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Nixie requires 63.5 grams to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Dustproof Red is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use. While the Nixie provides a heavier typing experience, the Dustproof Red offers a lighter touch, catering to different preferences based on actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie and Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, allowing for a smooth and predictable typing experience. This makes them great options for those who prefer a linear switch with a moderate travel distance. Overall, the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Dustproof Red switches are equal in terms of their travel distance, providing users with a 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 Outemu Dustproof Red 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 sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. In contrast, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry Nixie is recognized for its textured typing experience, which can provide a tactile feedback during keystrokes. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch. Without this information, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this regard.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky sound profile and a textured typing experience, blending traditional design with modern materials. While details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch are currently unknown, it is likely that users can expect a different typing experience compared to the Cherry Nixie. In general, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If similar results are desired, opting for the Cherry Nixie may be a reliable choice based on its established reputation within the keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother typing feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky and low-pitched sound when typing, the Cherry Nixie is known for providing that satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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