Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea offers a tactile feedback that provides a satisfying typing experience. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', the Milk Tea lacks specific categorization. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater 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
N/A
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
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and Outemu Milk Tea both utilize nylon as their top housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, the Milk Tea's top housing is described as offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, indicating a potentially different sound experience compared to the Nixie's top housing.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Milk Tea use nylon as well. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the impact of nylon in the top housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder sound when the keys are pressed. This consistency in bottom housing material between the Nixie and Milk Tea may lead to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Despite the similarities in housing materials for both the top and bottom of the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Milk Tea, the different sound profiles described for the top housing of each switch may differentiate the typing experience. The Nixie's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Milk Tea's Ly top housing provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. This means that while the bottom housing contributes to the overall sound and feel when pressing keys, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. As a result, users may notice varying sound characteristics between these two switches, even with similar housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is clear that the Nixie is heavier in both aspects. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type on for longer periods of time. The bottom out force of the Milk Tea is unknown, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in that aspect. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the Nixie for a more tactile and robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches provide a consistent and familiar typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and response. Overall, whether you choose the Cherry Nixie or the Outemu Milk Tea, you can expect a standard travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in a comfortable and reliable 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 $4.15.
The Outemu Milk Tea 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, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is praised for its textured typing experience, adding a unique friction when pressed that some users prefer for a more tactile feel. Conversely, no information is available about the feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch. It is always essential to consider personal preference when choosing a switch based on its feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a thocky sound and textured feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch may be the way to go. However, if you are interested in the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is recommended to try it out for yourself to determine if it meets your preferences in terms of sound and feel. Remember, the best switch for you ultimately depends on your individual typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a heavy and textured typing experience with a deep, thocky sound, the Cherry Nixie switch would be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile typing experience and prioritize a different set of qualities, the Outemu Milk Tea switch might be more suited to your preferences. It all comes down to personal preference and what features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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