Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both switches fall under the category of linear switches. The Cherry Nixie is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, resulting in a blend of tradition and modern innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned. If you are looking for a switch that offers a textured, thocky, and low-pitched typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the ideal choice for you. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Silver both use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deep and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a dull and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Nixie features a nylon top housing, while the Silver has a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate in the Silver's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This contrast in top housing materials leads to a difference in sound characteristics between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silver allows for a clear housing that is ideal for RGB lighting, giving it an advantage in visual appeal compared to the Cherry Nixie's nylon top housing. However, both switches share similar qualities in their nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deep and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The different top housing materials also impact the sound profile when pressing down on a key or letting go, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Silver comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. The Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share similar qualities in their nylon bottom housing, but the difference in top housing materials creates distinct differences in sound characteristics. Whether you prioritize sound quality or visual appeal with RGB lighting, each switch has its own unique qualities to consider.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch. The Nixie requires 63.5 grams of force to actuate a key and 80 grams to bottom out, while the Silver only needs 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Nixie provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Silver offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches have their pros and cons depending on personal preference, with the Nixie being better suited for those who prefer a heavier feel, and the Silver for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive and providing a consistent typing experience. With their matching travel distances, users can expect to feel a similar amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. This ensures that whether you choose the Cherry Nixie or the Outemu Silver, you will receive a consistent typing feel and performance.
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 Silver 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 offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing a tactile feedback with noticeable friction when pressed. Conversely, the Outemu Silver linear switch's feel is unspecified. While the Nixie offers a unique feel with its textured feedback, the Silver's feel remains a mystery.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch stands out for its thocky sound and textured feel, offering a blend of tradition and modern innovation with Cherry's updated materials and springs. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks information on its sound and feel characteristics, making it difficult to directly compare to the Nixie. However, both switches may provide similar results depending on personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup. As an expert, I would recommend trying out both switches to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the Outemu Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a textured typing experience with a deep and low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and friction-free typing experience, the Outemu Silver switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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