Cherry Nixie vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Strawberry both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is a revered classic known 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 Strawberry stands out for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, all housed in an attractive pink and clear housing. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured' and 'Thocky', the Strawberry is labeled as 'Frictionless' and 'Buttery'. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and KTT Strawberry switches have contrasting housing materials, with the Nixie featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the Strawberry's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
While the Cherry Nixie and KTT Strawberry may have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile of the switches is noticeable. The Nixie's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the key is pressed down, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry creates a sharp and resonant bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Nixie influences the sound when a key is released, producing a duller and rounder tone, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Strawberry results in a clearer and crisper sound upon key release.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and KTT Strawberry switches play a crucial role in defining their overall typing experience. While the Nixie's nylon housing creates a softer and more absorbing sound profile, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing produces a crisper and sharper sound. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller typing experience or a sharper and more resonant feel, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry offers a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter touch. The Nixie is ideal for those who appreciate a stronger push feel, while the Strawberry caters to individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie and the KTT Strawberry linear switches have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it's clear that both offer the same keypress experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. This means that users can expect a consistent feel and performance from both switches when typing or gaming. With a travel distance of 4mm, both switches provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, making them both excellent choices for those who prefer linear switches with a medium 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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch also offers a low-pitched sound, emphasizing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Nixie having a deeper thocky sound and the Strawberry delivering a smoother, more calming tone.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is recognized for its textured typing experience, providing users with a noticeable friction when pressing the keys. On the contrary, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a frictionless and silky smooth typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance and providing a buttery and polished feel to the keystrokes. While the Nixie switch offers a more tactile and textured feel, the Strawberry switch focuses on delivering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you lean towards a smoother and more frictionless typing feel with a low-pitched, calming sound profile, the KTT Strawberry switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the Cherry Nixie and KTT Strawberry switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a more textured typing experience with a deeper, low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a smoother, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Strawberry switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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