Cherry Nixie vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry Nixie and Gateron Quinn offer distinct typing experiences for enthusiasts to consider. The Cherry Nixie switch is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to specially designed nylon housings. While the Nixie offers a 'Thocky' and 'Low-pitched' typing experience, the Quinn switch provides a range of characteristics including 'Bassy', 'Polished', and 'Resonant'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Quinn use nylon as their top and bottom housing materials, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity between the two switches means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of differences, the Cherry Nixie and Gateron Quinn may vary in the specific design and construction of their housings, despite both utilizing nylon. The differences in housing design can impact factors such as key travel distance, actuation force, and overall durability. Users may find that one switch provides a more satisfying typing experience based on these design variances.
Overall, both the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Quinn offer a high-quality typing experience thanks to their nylon housing materials. Users can enjoy the deeper and fuller sound profile that nylon provides, as well as the softer feel when pressing down on the keys. Whether choosing the Nixie or the Quinn, typists can expect a reliable and consistent performance from these switches due to their shared housing material.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch with an actuation force of 59 grams. The Nixie also has a higher bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Quinn's 67 grams. The Nixie provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches provide different weight preferences for users, with the Nixie being on the heavier side and the Quinn falling in the medium-heavy category. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Quinn. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keystroke feel for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter travel distance for speed or a longer travel distance for a more tactile 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 $4.19.
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile, giving users a rich and immersive typing experience with a precise tactile bump. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice ultimately comes down to the individual's sound preference and typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, offering noticeable friction when pressed. In comparison, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing sensation, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience. Each switch offers a distinct tactile feel, with the Nixie focusing on a textured sensation and the Quinn providing a variety of responsive and smooth tactile feedback options.
Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer different yet equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie provides a heavier and textured typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Quinn offers a crisp tactile bump paired with a deep and resonant sound. Both switches have their strengths and cater to different preferences, ensuring that newcomers have various options to choose from based on their personal preferences for typing sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer the rich thocky sound of the Nixie or the crisp tactility of the Quinn, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying mechanical typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a textured typing experience and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a crisp, snappy tactile bump and a rich, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Quinn might be more suited to your taste. Additionally, if you value a smoother, bouncy, or accented typing feel, the Quinn offers a variety of options to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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