Cherry Nixie vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry Nixie and the Durock T1 are both popular mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a solid and consistent feel while typing. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound that is reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Nixie is characterized by its 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' qualities, the T1 is known for being 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the Durock T1 switches both feature nylon housing material in their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller sound. In contrast, the T1 switches have a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when used in switches with clear housings for RGB lighting. Overall, the housing materials of these switches have a significant impact on the sound and feel of typing.
While both the Cherry Nixie and Durock T1 switches use nylon in their bottom housings, the T1 switches differentiate themselves by utilizing polycarbonate in their top housings. This difference in housing materials results in distinct sound profiles when typing on each switch. The Nixie switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound, while the T1 switches produce a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making the T1 switches visually appealing as well. Despite these differences in top housing material, the bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound experience of the switches.
In terms of housing materials, the Cherry Nixie and Durock T1 switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. The nylon housing in the Nixie switches creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing in the T1 switches produces a clearer and more resonant sound. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the desired typing experience, with the Nixie switches offering a softer sound and the T1 switches providing a crisper sound. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has a force that is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Nixie is also heavier at 80 grams, while the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Nixie switch requires more force to activate and fully press down compared to the T1 switch. People who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the T1 switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Nixie switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for those who prefer a certain level of key press feedback. In this case, there is no difference in travel distance between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch.
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 $4.15.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 known for its thocky and low-pitched qualities, producing a deep and rich sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience that can be further enhanced or altered by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is appreciated for its textured typing experience, offering users a tactile sensation that adds to the overall typing enjoyment. Conversely, the Durock T1 tactile switch features a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a unique blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. While both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, users can expect a comfortable typing experience that suits their preferences.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch each bring their own characteristics to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Nixie offers a thocky sound and a textured feel, while the T1 provides a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as they both offer high-quality performance in their respective categories. Ultimately, whether you choose the Nixie or the T1, you can expect a level of quality that will meet your needs for a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy linear switch with a textured typing experience and a deep, thocky sound, then the Cherry Nixie would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a comfortable typing feel, a medium bump, and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, then the Durock T1 would be more suitable. Consider your preference for weight, texture, sound, and typing feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both the Cherry Nixie and Durock T1 have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take your time to explore and find the switch that best suits your typing style and needs.
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