Cherry Nixie vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and TTC Speed Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation thanks to Cherry's MX2A update materials and springs. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is lauded for its fast and precise typing experience, with light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched feel, the Speed Silver offers a neutral and polished typing experience. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The Cherry Nixie and TTC Speed Silver both utilize nylon for their top housing, but the Nixie's top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate creating a clearer and more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Nixie's nylon top housing may not be as visually striking as the Speed Silver's clear polycarbonate, which is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting.
While the Nixie and Speed Silver both feature nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing material still influence the overall sound profile of the switches. The Nixie's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound well, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the varying top housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound experience of these switches.
When comparing the overall sound profiles of the Cherry Nixie and TTC Speed Silver switches, it is evident that the choice of top housing material has a substantial impact on the sound produced. The Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing yields a sharper and crisper sound. The difference in top housing material also affects the aesthetics of the switches, with the clear polycarbonate housing of the Speed Silver being ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. While both switches share nylon bottom housing, it is the contrasting top housing materials that ultimately differentiate the sound profiles of these two switches.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. The Nixie requires 63.5 grams to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light option for those who prefer a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the TTC Speed Silver would be the better choice, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced and forceful typing experience, the Cherry Nixie would be the preferred option. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Nixie has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm. The difference may seem slight, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying and comfortable. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it preferable for those seeking faster key presses, especially gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with gamers likely preferring the Speed Silver for its shorter travel distance and quicker response, while those seeking a more substantial key press may opt for the Nixie.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 best described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. While the Nixie provides a more distinctive and bass-heavy tone, the Speed Silver delivers a more moderate and versatile sound that can easily adapt to different settings and preferences.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, offering noticeable friction when pressed. This tactile sensation can be preferred by users who enjoy a bit of resistance and feedback in their keystrokes. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a milder and more polished feel, offering a smoother and gentler typing experience. The polished finish of the Speed Silver switch results in reduced friction and effortless key travel, making it appealing to those who prefer a sleek and refined touch.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie excels in providing a deep and textured sound with noticeable friction in typing, the Speed Silver focuses on a neutral sound profile and a polished, smooth feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's personal preferences for sound, tactile feedback, and typing experience. If you are looking for a more unique and textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the way to go, while the TTC Speed Silver offers a versatile and polished option for those seeking a smoother and more neutral feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a heavy bottom out force for a substantial typing experience with a textured feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switch would be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force for a quick and precise typing experience with a mild, polished feel and a neutral sound profile, the TTC Speed Silver switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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