Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Cherry Nixie is well-regarded for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. This switch falls under the categories of 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', making it a popular choice for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but provides a satisfying clicky sound. Clicky switches are favored by typists who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Green, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Nixie features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Green utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic nature. This variance in material directly impacts the overall sound produced by the switches, offering users a choice between a rounder sound with the Nixie or a more resonant sound with the Green.
On the other hand, both the Nixie and the Green share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This material choice for the bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the top housing may differ between the two switches, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Green can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches offer users a choice between a deeper sound with the Nixie or a crisper sound with the Green. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile for both switches. Regardless of the housing materials chosen, users can expect a unique typing experience tailored to their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 80 grams. The Nixie has a slightly lighter actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Green's 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Nixie may be the preferred option. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Green switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a heavy bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience, with the Nixie being slightly lighter in actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical. Both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of travel distance, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of which switch they choose. The Cherry Nixie and Outemu Green switches offer the same level of key travel, making them equally suitable options for those who prefer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Green 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
The Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch has no known sound description, making it difficult to compare in this aspect. When it comes to feel, the Nixie is described as having a textured typing experience, which may add some friction when pressing the keys. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch. Overall, based on the available information, it seems that the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a unique and textured typing experience with a thocky sound profile, while the Outemu Green clicky switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy the qualities of the Cherry Nixie, you may get similar results with other switches that offer a thocky sound and textured feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a lighter typing experience and do not mind the lack of specific sound and feel descriptors, the Outemu Green clicky switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and switch characteristics.
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