Bsun Pine vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that each offers a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Bsun Pine stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense tactility that appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation through updated materials and springs. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Nixie switch is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style 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
45g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
The Bsun Pine and the Cherry Nixie both use nylon for their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbent nature of the softer plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper and crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine. While both switches share this similarity in bottom housing material, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing offers a different sound experience than the Nixie's nylon top housing. The Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Pine's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with added benefits for RGB lighting.
In terms of sound profiles, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing and the Nixie's nylon top housing offer distinct characteristics. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. In comparison, the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics for a rounder and duller sound experience. While the bottom housings provide a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches, the top housings play a significant role in creating unique auditory experiences.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Pine and the Cherry Nixie housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound with benefits for RGB lighting, while the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches share a similar deep and full sound profile from their nylon bottom housings. Understanding how the combination of top and bottom housing materials influences the overall sound profile can help enthusiasts make an informed decision based on their desired typing and auditory experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Pine is the lighter option while the Nixie is the heavier choice. The Bsun Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie boasts a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter key press for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Pine would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Nixie. Despite the difference in forces, both switches are likely to provide satisfactory results based on the preferences of the user.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie, providing a quicker response time for users who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Nixie offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper press when typing or gaming. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the choice ultimately depending on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 BSUN Pine tactile switch offers a crisp and somewhat sharp auditory experience, bringing a distinct and satisfying click with each key press. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone that resonates with each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience based on personal preference and the acoustic properties of the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is characterized by its accented and sharp tactile feedback, providing an invigorating and snappy typing sensation that is both responsive and immersive. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for its textured feel, potentially offering a slightly scratchy sensation that may appeal to users seeking a different tactile experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct feelings that can cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Pine switch excels in providing a sharp tactile bump and crisp feedback, the Nixie switch offers a thocky sound and a textured typing experience. Both switches bring something special to the table, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper tactile feedback or a deeper sound profile, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with clear feedback and a quick bottom-out, the Pine switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy and textured typing experience with a deep and satisfying sound, the Nixie switch might be more to your liking. Consider your preferences in bottom out force, sound, and feel to determine which switch would better suit your typing style and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches lies in what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable.
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