Jerrzi Orange vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jerrzi Orange switches are praised for their clacky linear feel and lightweight nature, providing a lively and responsive typing experience for enthusiasts who enjoy audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixies are renowned for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation thanks to Cherry's MX2A update. The Nixie switches offer a low-pitched and thocky feel that appeals to those looking for a classic yet modern typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry Nixie, we can see that both switches share a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity suggests that when typing on either the Orange or the Nixie, the bottom-out sound and feel will be impacted similarly by the nylon material.
However, a key difference between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. This contrast showcases how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing on a switch.
Overall, while the bottom housings of the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry Nixie are the same, the use of different top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Orange offers a sharper and clearer sound, while the nylon top housing of the Nixie creates a deeper and fuller sound. This highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. The bottom out force for the Orange switch is unknown, while the Nixie switch has a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating a heavier feel when fully pressed. The weight of a switch is crucial in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches allowing for longer typing sessions and smoother keystrokes, ideal for work or gaming. Conversely, heavier switches provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback. If a user prefers a lighter feel for typing, the Jerrzi Orange switch would be a better choice, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the Cherry Nixie switch.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these switches fall in the range of shorter travel distances, with the Nixie being slightly longer than the Orange. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Orange with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Nixie. In general, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional options, catering to the preferences of users who value quicker key actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. This adds a vibrant and lively tone to the typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more audible feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch provides a thocky sound, known for its deep, rich, and satisfying tones. The low-pitched sound adds a sense of weight and tradition to each press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for a brighter, crisper sound or a deeper, more bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a lightweight and effortless typing experience. This light actuation force reduces strain on the fingers, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for having a textured feel, which may provide a different tactile sensation compared to the smoother Orange switch. While textured switches may not be for everyone, some users prefer the added friction for a more controlled keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to whether the user values a smooth, gentle typing experience or a more tactile, textured feel.
Overall, the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry Nixie linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a clacky sound and feathery feel, catering to those who enjoy a lively and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie switch offers a thocky sound and textured feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper, more substantial typing sensation. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel. However, if one enjoys a more vibrant sound and light touch, the Orange switch may provide similar results to the Nixie switch in terms of overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lively and responsive feel with a crisp, clacky sound, the Jerrzi Orange switches would be a fantastic choice for you. Their feathery and easy-to-press nature makes them ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier and more textured typing experience with a deep, thocky sound, the Cherry Nixie switches may be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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