Cherry Nixie vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and KTT Peach both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the KTT Peach is also a linear switch but is known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Peach is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Peach, it is evident that the Nixie utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Peach uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The nylon in both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Peach creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as it is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Peach, both switches ultimately offer a similar experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, affects the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced. This means that while the Peach may have a crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Nixie still offers a comparable experience with its nylon top housing.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This split in qualities allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, as the combination of materials in the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Peach work together to create a distinct sound profile.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the KTT Peach linear switch, which only requires 45 grams of force to actuate. Bottom out force also differs, with the Nixie requiring 80 grams compared to the Peach's 53 grams. The Nixie switch provides a stronger push feel, making it more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience, while the Peach switch offers a lighter touch that is ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the Nixie switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Peach switch is lighter and more suitable for users who prefer a gentler typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent and precise 4 mm travel distance. This means that whether you are using the Cherry Nixie or the KTT Peach linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance can provide a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer switches with a shorter 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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch also produces a low-pitched sound, but with a more neutral tone suitable for various preferences and environments. Both switches are likely to offer a pleasant auditory feedback, albeit with slight variations in tone. The final sound outcome will also depend on external factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is characterized by its textured typing experience, adding a tactile element to the typing process. In contrast, the KTT Peach switch offers a mild typing feel, which might appeal to users looking for a smoother and more gentle experience. While the Nixie switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Peach switch offers a softer and more approachable typing sensation. The choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Cherry Nixie and KTT Peach switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Nixie switch offers a textured and thocky typing experience with a low-pitched sound, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Peach switch provides a smooth and neutral typing feel with a low-pitched sound, catering to users looking for a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying typing experience, with users achieving similar results in terms of overall performance despite the nuanced differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a textured typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a syrupy smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the KTT Peach switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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