Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch offer unique typing experiences for users. The Cherry Nixie is a revered classic within the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, the Nixie blends tradition with modern innovation, providing a 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is still a reliable clicky switch option. While the Cherry Nixie offers a more tactile and weighted feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch and a clicky sound with every keystroke. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze, it is evident that both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings. This commonality results in a similar typing experience for users of both switches. The nylon material used in the top housing of these switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon top housings elicits a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
While both the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Spring Breeze share nylon top and bottom housings, the difference in their overall sound profile may be attributed to the specific design and construction of each switch. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even with the same housing material, subtle variations in housing design and construction can result in distinct typing experiences between the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Spring Breeze.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Spring Breeze, differences in their overall typing feel and sound profile may still exist. While both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the specific mechanisms within each switch can impact the overall typing experience. This highlights the importance of considering not just the housing material, but also the overall design and construction of a switch when comparing different options for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there is a clear difference in weight. The Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Spring Breeze, while users looking for a heavier push feel may lean towards the Nixie. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference, with the Nixie providing a more robust typing experience and the Spring Breeze offering a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. With a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect a consistent tactile feedback and responsiveness from both switches. Overall, the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer a comparable typing experience due to their equal travel distances.
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 Spring Breeze 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 sound, producing a deep and satisfying noise when pressed, coupled with a low-pitched tone that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is a bit of an unknown in terms of sound qualities. When it comes to feel, the Nixie offers a textured typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. Unfortunately, the feel of the Spring Breeze clicky switch is also unknown. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a thocky sound and textured feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be a solid choice. However, if you are unsure about the sound and feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it may be best to explore other options that have more detailed information available.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a substantial heft and textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. The Nixie's bottom out force of 80 grams can provide a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the Spring Breeze may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clicky switch with audible feedback, the Spring Breeze offers a satisfying click with each keypress. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and desired key feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Spring Breeze will depend on what feels best for your typing experience.
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