TTC Bluish White vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, one immediate difference is the typing experience they offer. The Bluish White is praised for its satisfyingly poppy feel and snappy sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, providing a different tactile sensation. While the Bluish White is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched', the Nixie is labeled as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so determining the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry Nixie switches share similarities in their top housing material, with the Bluish White utilizing polycarbonate and the Nixie featuring a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both materials offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Bluish White and the Nixie switches use nylon. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a tactile experience that complements the typing process. By utilizing nylon for both bottom housings, both switches ensure consistency in the sound and feel across the entirety of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry Nixie switches differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings offer a unique combination of sharpness and depth in sound, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Whether it is the stiffer polycarbonate of the Bluish White or the softer nylon of the Nixie, each material brings its own distinct characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users seeking a specific sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force vary significantly between the two. The Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Nixie boasts a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Bluish White provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Nixie offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Bluish White being lighter and the Nixie being heavier, ensuring that users can choose the option that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Nixie has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bluish White. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered traditional, while 3.0mm is more shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Bluish White a suitable choice for them. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Nixie may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
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.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is bass-heavy and mellow, providing a satisfying poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as thocky with a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches have a low-pitched characteristic, but the Nixie's thocky sound may appeal to those looking for a more pronounced and tactile auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White tactile switch is known for its buttery and mild keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, it offers a stepped and subtle typing feel with a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may be preferred by some users seeking a different tactile experience compared to the smooth and polished feel of the Bluish White switch.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Bluish White switch provides a poppy tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound and buttery feel, while the Nixie switch brings a thocky sound and textured feel to the table. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, individuals can choose the switch that best aligns with their desired mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a light and satisfyingly tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the TTC Bluish White switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a deep, rich "thocky" sound and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie linear switches would be the way to go. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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