Cherry Nixie vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering different mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Cherry Nixie and the Kailh Sage. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, providing a 'thocky' and low-pitched feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, giving it an invigorating and crunchy feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences in typing feel. While the Cherry Nixie may be preferred for its traditional feel and modern innovations, the Kailh Sage may be chosen for its refreshing sharp clickiness. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Kailh Sage, it's evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. However, the Nixie uses a nylon top housing, while the Sage features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Sage will result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's softer nylon top housing, which will offer a deeper and fuller sound experience.
While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material, they differ in their top housing material, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Nixie's nylon top housing provides a softer and rounder sound profile, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound experience. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visual element to the switch that the Nixie lacks. Overall, the choice of top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and aesthetic appeal of each switch.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. As such, the differences in top housing material between the Cherry Nixie and Kailh Sage will result in contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences for users. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, catering to individual preferences in typing feel and sound output.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The Cherry Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Kailh Sage, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Kailh Sage has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, as opposed to the Cherry Nixie's 80 grams. In terms of weight, the Cherry Nixie is heavier overall and may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage, with its slightly lighter bottom out force, may be more suitable for individuals looking for a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Sage has a shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie. A 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. The Nixie offers a slightly deeper keypress, which may be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Sage provides a quicker response with a shorter travel distance, making it popular among gamers for its speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 provides a satisfyingly thocky and low-pitched typing experience, offering a deep and rich sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage delivers a crunchy noise reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, providing a sharp and distinct click with every keystroke. Depending on your preference, the Nixie's sound might be more subdued and bass-heavy, while the Sage's sound is crisp and attention-grabbing.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch offers a textured typing experience, with noticeable friction that some users may enjoy for its unique feel. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch provides an invigorating sensation with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a sharp tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. If you prefer a smoother typing experience, the Nixie's textured feel may not be for you, while the Sage's sharp and reactive feel could be more to your liking.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured typing feel, while the Sage delivers a crunchy clicky sound with an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience, you can choose between the two switches to achieve the desired results. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy and textured typing sensation with a deep and low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and invigorating typing experience with a distinctive clicky sound, the Kailh Sage switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style and preferences.
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