Cherry Nixie vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and HMX SU are two appealing options that cater to different preferences within the linear switch category. The Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its classic charm, combining substantial heft with a textured typing experience, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a tactile feel alongside the smoothness of linear switches. With upgraded materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update, the Nixie delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that adds depth to each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX SU stands out with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, which contributes to a subtly deep sound profile that intrigues users seeking a unique auditory experience while maintaining a smooth keystroke. While both switches offer their own distinct advantages, selecting between them ultimately depends on individual preferences in sound and feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the HMX SU switches share a commonality in their construction, as both are made entirely from nylon. The use of nylon for the top and bottom housings in both switches plays a significant role in crafting a unique typing experience. The nylon material is noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily because it is a softer plastic compared to other materials like ABS or polycarbonate. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a rounded and subdued auditory feedback when the keys are pressed. Consequently, users can expect a similarly pleasant sound characteristic when typing on either the Nixie or the SU.
Despite the identical use of nylon in both the Cherry Nixie and HMX SU, it's important to consider the potential differences that could be present in the design and assembly of the housing itself. However, since the information provided indicates no specific variations in the housing aside from the material itself, one can deduce that the mechanical properties resulting from the nylon—such as typing feel and sound profile—will largely mirror each other between these switches. With both switches benefiting from the properties of their nylon construction, users are likely to experience a consistent performance in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Furthermore, should either switch feature different top and bottom housings made of other materials, the interplay of their characteristics would become more distinct, affecting both the feel and sound during operation. In the case of the Nixie and SU, the consistent use of nylon throughout contributes to a cohesive experience, wherein the bottom housing's influence on the bottom-out sound and feel is complemented by the top housing’s effect on sound upon release. This seamless integration of nylon across both switches fosters an expectation for similar results, delivering an enjoyable typing experience rooted in the beneficial acoustic properties of the material.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces is evident, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Nixie features a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may find satisfying and robust. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch offers a significantly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which can facilitate longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming. Consequently, the Nixie is the heavier option, while the SU is the lighter one, catering to different user preferences for tactile feedback and typing comfort.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Nixie measuring 4 mm and the SU at 3.6 mm. This makes the Nixie the longer of the two, offering a more substantial travel experience that may appeal to users who prefer a deeper keypress. On the other hand, the SU's shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker actuation for competitive play. While both switches offer different tactile experiences, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced feedback may gravitate towards the Nixie, whereas those looking for speed might prefer the HMX SU. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding depth 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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 stands out with its thocky and low-pitched characteristics. It produces a deep, rich sound reminiscent of a satisfying thud or a soft knock, which many enthusiasts find appealing for creating an immersive typing experience. This low-pitched sound adds a bass-heavy presence that can enhance the overall feel of typing. On the other hand, while the HMX SU linear switch is noted for having a subtle and relatively deep sound profile, specific descriptors for its acoustic qualities are not provided. This leaves some room for speculation, but it's possible that it might provide a quieter or less pronounced experience compared to the Nixie. Ultimately, the specific sound output will be influenced by the keyboard construction and the user's choice of keycaps, making it important to consider those factors when evaluating sound.
In terms of feel, the Nixie linear switch is characterized by its textured typing experience, resulting in a noticeable friction when the keys are pressed. This texture, while appreciated by many who enjoy a bit of feedback, may not appeal to those who prefer a smoother, more seamless typing experience. The HMX SU does not have detailed information available regarding its feel, leaving it uncertain whether it shares similar textural qualities or opts for a more fluid action. Nonetheless, since the Nixie offers that distinct texture which some typists seek, those who enjoy that tactile sensation might find it a more fitting choice unless the SU can provide comparable feedback.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie and HMX SU linear switches offer distinct attributes that cater to different preferences. The Nixie excels with its thocky, low-pitched sound and textured feel, providing a rich auditory and tactile experience that many keyboard enthusiasts cherish. The lack of detailed descriptions for the HMX SU's sound and feel leaves some questions, but its subtle sound profile suggests it might appeal to those who prefer a more understated approach. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Nixie for its robust character or awaits further insights into the SU, both switches promise to deliver quality performance depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile, as well as the force required for actuation. If you prefer a heavier switch that provides a textured typing experience and a rich, thocky sound, the Cherry Nixie is an excellent choice. Its 80-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for you if you enjoy a substantial heft while typing, especially if you're someone who values tactile feedback and a deeper audio experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a smoother typing feel, the HMX SU switch might be the better option. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, the SU is easier to actuate, making it a great fit for extended typing sessions or gaming, where rapid key presses are necessary. Additionally, the SU’s subtle sound profile can provide a quieter typing experience, which might be more preferable in shared spaces or for late-night use. Ultimately, consider what aspects of the switches are most important to you, and select the one that aligns with your typing style and environment.
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