Cherry Nixie vs. Bsun Tuzi (Bunny)
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny). The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation through the use of updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) also offers a refined typing experience with its modified LY stem, PC top, and PA bottom designed for an optimal combination of clack and smoothness. The Cherry Nixie is categorized as 'Textured,' 'Thocky,' and 'Low-pitched,' while the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) is categorized as 'Clacky,' 'High-pitched,' and 'Silky.' Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but diving in deeper beyond these general points will help determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
63.5g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
42g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
UPE
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) both feature nylon as the material used for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the Bsun Tuzi uses polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Tuzi creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound.
Aesthetically speaking, the polycarbonate top housing of the Bsun Tuzi allows for a clear housing design, making it more suitable for RGB lighting effects. This is an advantage over the Cherry Nixie, which features a nylon top housing that does not offer the same level of transparency. However, both switches still maintain a deep and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon bottom housing they share. The split between the bottom and top housings in switches with different materials allows for a unique tactile experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, while the Cherry Nixie and Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) differ in their choice of top housing material - nylon for the Nixie and polycarbonate for the Tuzi - they both share nylon as the bottom housing material. This results in both switches delivering a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Tuzi offers a sharper and crisper sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Nixie. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics, with the Tuzi being more visually appealing for those seeking RGB lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch, it is evident that they offer significantly different typing experiences. The Nixie features a heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Tuzi (Bunny) switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 42 grams, making it easier to type on for longer periods without fatigue. The Nixie switch is notably heavier in terms of force required, while the Tuzi switch is lighter, catering to users who prefer different typing sensations. Those who enjoy a strong push feel may opt for the Nixie, while individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Tuzi. Ultimately, the variation in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches allows users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing comfort and efficiency.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Nixie offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a standard key feel. On the other hand, the Tuzi provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can benefit gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key depth and responsiveness. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the travel distance chosen, users can expect a similar typing experience.
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 Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tuzi (Bunny) for $3.49.
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 characteristics, creating a deep and rich sound profile that is quite satisfying to many users. In contrast, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp tone that is bright and percussive. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the more bass-heavy and mellow sound of the Nixie, while others may enjoy the sharper and more prominent sound of the Tuzi.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, offering a tactile sensation that provides noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feel can add a sense of feedback and precision to typing, although it may not be to everyone's liking. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The silky feel of the Tuzi can offer a more fluid and effortless typing experience, appealing to users who prioritize smoothness over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Nixie provides a deep and textured typing experience with a thocky sound profile, while the Tuzi offers a sharp and smooth typing sensation with a clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with some users preferring the traditional heft and texture of the Nixie, and others gravitating towards the refined smoothness of the Tuzi. Regardless of the choice made, both switches are well-crafted options that can enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a heavier switch with a more textured feel and a deep, low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smoother, silky feel and a sharp, clacky, high-pitched sound, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
