Cherry Nixie vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry Nixie and Gateron Zero Degree 0° are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating modern innovations while still maintaining a classic feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its revolutionary self-padding design that provides unmatched smoothness, stability, and noise reduction during typing. While the Nixie boasts a 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched' categorization, the Zero Degree 0° does not fall under any specific category. These general pointers offer insight into why you may want to choose one switch over the other; 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
N/A
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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deep and full sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the top housing materials differ between the two switches. While the Nixie features a nylon top housing, providing a similar sound profile to its bottom housing, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of different housing materials also contributes to the overall look of the switches. The Nixie's nylon top and bottom housing may provide a more classic and traditional appearance, while the Zero Degree 0° with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sleek and modern design, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switch, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboards with lighting effects. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon housing may appeal to users who prefer a simpler and more understated look.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry Nixie and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, feel, and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon bottom housing, the decision between the switches may come down to whether a user prefers the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing found in the Zero Degree 0° or the rounder and duller sound of the nylon top housing seen in the Nixie. Additionally, the visual appeal of the switches, with the Nixie's classic look versus the Zero Degree 0°'s modern design with RGB compatibility, may play a role in the decision-making process for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Nixie switch requires more force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Nixie switch also has a heavier force of 80 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° switch does not have information available. The Nixie switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the Zero Degree 0° switch would be lighter and potentially more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have different travel distances, with the Nixie having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Zero Degree 0° having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while the Zero Degree 0°'s 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, providing a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the Zero Degree 0° for its faster response, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Nixie. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, providing a deep and satisfying sound when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its silent typing experience due to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. While the Nixie offers a more traditional and satisfying sound, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on reducing noise and providing a smooth and stable typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is praised for its textured typing experience, offering users a tactile feedback when pressing the keys. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, although not specified with any descriptors, is known for its smooth and elastic feel, absorbing sound and providing a stable typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Nixie focusing on texture while the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes smoothness and stability.
Overall, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie provides a deep and rich sound with a textured typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing with a smooth and stable feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a substantial heft and textured typing experience with a deep, thocky and low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, stable typing experience with innovative self-padding design and reduced noise, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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