Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry Nixie, a linear switch, and the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch. The Cherry Nixie is a revered classic in the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. Incorporating modern materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches offer a blend of tradition and innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile. While the Nixie is praised for its 'Thocky' and 'Low-pitched' characteristics, the Phoenix is described as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own advantages and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific features and properties can help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
63.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Phoenix feature unique housing materials for both the top and bottom housings of the switches. The Nixie's nylon top and bottom housing create a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Phoenix's polycarbonate top and bottom housing offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix is translucent, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, while the Nixie's nylon housing is a classic choice for a switch material.
While the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Phoenix have distinct housing materials for both the top and bottom, the overall impact on sound and feel is split between the two parts of the switches. When typing on the Nixie, the bottom housing's qualities will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. The same split effect can be seen in the Phoenix, where the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. However, the differences in sound profile between the softer nylon of the Nixie and the stiffer polycarbonate of the Phoenix provide varied typing experiences for users looking for specific sound qualities in their switches.
In terms of sound profile, the Cherry Nixie's nylon housing and the Outemu Phoenix's polycarbonate housing offer contrasting characteristics. The Nixie's nylon material creates a deeper, fuller, and duller sound due to its softness, absorbing more sound during typing. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate material generates a sharper and crisper sound profile with higher pitch resonance, attributed to its stiffness. Both types of housing provide a unique typing experience, with the Nixie offering a more traditional sound profile and the Phoenix appealing to those seeking a clearer and resonant typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetic considerations, such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Nixie is heavier in both aspects. The Nixie features an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix has a lower bottom out force of 62 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The actuation force of the Phoenix is listed as None, which makes it difficult to directly compare to the Nixie in this aspect. However, the lighter bottom out force of the Phoenix suggests that it may offer a smoother and more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with some opting for the heavier Nixie for a more substantial typing feel, while others may prefer the lighter Phoenix for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix's 3.3 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a more suitable option for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on whether you prefer a longer, more pronounced keypress or a shorter, snappier typing experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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, giving a deep and satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Nixie offering a more traditional and subdued sound, while the Phoenix brings a sparkly and crystalline click to the table. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is praised for its textured typing experience, providing a tactile feedback that some users find appealing. Meanwhile, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, with the Nixie focusing on texture and friction, while the Phoenix emphasizes smoothness and ease of typing. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on whether the user prefers a more textured or polished typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles for users to choose from. The Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional and tactile feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a crunchy sound and a polished typing experience, catering to users who prefer a sparkly click and smoother key travel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches have their own unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and key feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a unique click mechanism producing a crunchy sound, and a polished and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix switch could be the perfect fit for your keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force required for key presses.
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