Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Tom offer different typing experiences that cater to various preferences. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is well-known for its substantial weight and textured typing feel, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that provides a different typing experience. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Tom does not fall into any specific categories. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom, we see that the Nixie features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tom's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its relatively stiffer plastic composition. While the Nixie's nylon bottom housing mirrors its top housing in terms of sound profile, the Tom also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar duller and rounder sound profile overall.
One significant difference between the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Tom is the material used for their top housings. The nylon top housing of the Nixie focuses on creating a deeper and fuller sound through sound absorption, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom aims to produce a sharper and clearer sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. This distinction in material impacts the overall sound profile of the switches, catering to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts. However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile for key presses.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches like the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Tom plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on a keyboard. While the Nixie's nylon top housing offers a softer and more absorbent sound experience compared to the Tom's polycarbonate top housing, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistently deep and full sound profile in key presses. Whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches provide unique acoustic characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Nixie switch requires more force to register a key press. In terms of bottom out force, the Nixie switch also has a higher force of 80 grams, while the Tom switch's bottom out force is unknown. The Nixie switch would provide a heavier typing experience overall compared to the Tom switch. When considering weight, the lighter actuation force of the Tom switch may be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Nixie switch would suit those who prefer a more substantial and forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Nixie has a longer travel distance compared to the Tom. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper keystroke feel, which some typists may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom's 3.3 mm travel distance may cater more to gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Both switches offer their own unique advantages based on personal preference, with the Nixie providing more depth and the Tom offering a faster keystroke response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's typing style and preference for 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 Tom 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, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, there is no specific sound description available for the Outemu Tom tactile switch. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, which adds a unique element of feedback to each keystroke. Meanwhile, there is no specific feel description provided for the Outemu Tom tactile switch. It's important to consider that the feel of a switch is a crucial factor in determining the overall typing experience and comfort level.
In summary, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a textured typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel. Despite the differences in subjective qualities, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences depending on personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard setup. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person to see which one suits your typing style best would be the most effective way to make a decision between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and enjoy a substantial heft in your typing experience, the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. With its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, as well as its textured feel, the Nixie offers a classic yet modern typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an undefined bottom out force and are indifferent to sound and feel descriptions, the Outemu Tom tactile switch might be a good option for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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