Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Gold stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With the incorporation of updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches offer a blend of tradition and modern innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that offers a different typing feel compared to the Nixie. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', the Gold does not have any specific categorization. Each switch has its unique strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Gold switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their differences in material composition. The Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While the Nixie's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deep and full sound profile, the Gold's nylon bottom housing shares similar sound characteristics.
The contrasting qualities of the housing materials become evident in how they affect the typing experience and sound production of the switches. The Nixie's nylon bottom housing, like the top housing, accentuates a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with its softer plastic that absorbs sound. In comparison, the Gold's nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar sound profile, further emphasizing the impact of nylon material on the switches. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, it is the top housing that stands out as the key determinant of the sound produced when pressing and releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Gold switches play a crucial role in shaping their respective sound profiles. The differences in material composition, with the Nixie featuring nylon top and bottom housings while the Gold incorporates polycarbonate top housing, create distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the Nixie providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Gold delivers a sharper, crisper sound. Despite their differences, both switches showcase how housing materials significantly impact the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Nixie switch has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gold switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. The Nixie switch is heavier overall, offering a stronger push feel, while the Gold switch is lighter, allowing for easier typing over extended periods. Both switches excel in different areas, with the Nixie being preferred by those who enjoy a heavier typing experience and the Gold being favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide a consistent typing experience. Whether typing on a keyboard with Cherry Nixie linear switches or Outemu Gold clicky switches, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel.
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 Gold 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 profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specified sound description available, leaving it up to personal preference. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap material.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is praised for its textured typing experience, offering a tactile sensation that some users find appealing. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switch does not have a specified feel description provided, making it difficult to directly compare to the Nixie in terms of tactile feedback. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is a subjective aspect that can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch stands out for its thocky sound and textured feel, providing a unique typing experience that combines tradition with modern innovation. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch are not as clearly defined, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. If you're looking for a deep and rich sound with a textured typing feel, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a heavy, textured typing experience with a deep and low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch may be the best choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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