Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Purple offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, these switches seamlessly blend tradition with modern innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch that provides a different typing experience. While not as well-known as the Cherry Nixie, the Outemu Purple offers a satisfying tactile feedback that some users prefer. So, if you're looking for a switch that is textured, thocky, and low-pitched, the Cherry Nixie may be the way to go. However, for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Purple could be the better choice. 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
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Purple, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches differ in their top housing material. The Nixie features a nylon top housing, while the Purple utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's softer sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind.
Although both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Purple diverge in their top housing material. The Nixie's nylon top housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Purple's polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound. This differentiation in top housing materials highlights the impact that housing material can have on the overall sound profile of a switch. Additionally, the choice to use polycarbonate for the top housing of the Purple not only affects the sound but also adds a visually appealing element with its translucent properties, especially complementing RGB lighting setups. Overall, the housing materials of these switches showcase how subtle differences can result in unique sound profiles and aesthetics.
When considering the impact of housing materials on a switch's sound profile, it's essential to recognize the role that each component plays. While the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction becomes significant when comparing the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Purple, as their top housing materials differ in composition and resulting sound characteristics. By utilizing different materials for their top housing, each switch is able to offer a distinct auditory experience to users, catering to individual preferences for sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly influence the overall typing experience and satisfaction for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Nixie is the heavier of the two. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Purple switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple switch may be the preferred choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, for those looking for a more robust typing experience, the Nixie switch would be the better option. 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 Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be exactly the same. As a result, users can expect to get similar typing experiences in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches. It is worth noting that the travel distance of both switches is shorter compared to other switches with longer travel distances such as the Cherry MX Blue switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. Overall, the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Purple switches offer a consistent travel distance for users who prefer a shorter key press.
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 Purple 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is often praised for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown at this time, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is recognized for its textured typing experience, offering a tactile sensation that some users appreciate for its unique feedback. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is currently unavailable, making it challenging to contrast the two switches in this regard. Keep in mind that the feel of a switch is a personal preference, so trying out different options can help you determine what suits your typing style best.
Overall, both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Nixie is known for its thocky sound and textured feel, the Purple switch's sound and feel characteristics remain to be explored. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, experimenting with these switches in different keyboard setups can help you achieve similar or different results based on your individual taste.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavy bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, then the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer switches with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a different sound and feel experience, the Outemu Purple tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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