Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are notable differences worth exploring. The Cherry Nixie is lauded for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. This switch falls under the categories of 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', providing a unique typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade does not have specific standout qualities listed, yet it offers a distinct clicky response when pressed. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a smooth and heavy typing experience with the Cherry Nixie or a clicky and tactile feel with the Outemu Blue Jade. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue Jade switches use nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housings. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of these switches ensures consistency in the overall sound and feel of the switches, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
While both the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue Jade switches share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom, the specific design and structure of each switch may cause subtle differences in sound and feel. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though both switches use nylon for their housing material, the overall typing experience may still have nuances that set them apart from each other.
Overall, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing of the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Blue Jade switches contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The qualities of nylon as a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively create a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. Whether it be typing on the Cherry Nixie or the Outemu Blue Jade, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience that showcases the benefits of nylon as a switch housing material.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the Nixie requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottom out compared to the Blue Jade. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier option overall. On the other hand, the Blue Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. This means that the Blue Jade will provide a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions, while the Nixie will deliver a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. While the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Blue Jade switches have the same travel distance, their key feel and actuation force may differ, resulting in a different typing experience despite the similar travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a consistent distance traveled when typing, ensuring a tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and comfort.
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 $4.15.
The Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 considering sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience that creates a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. In comparison, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, but typically clicky switches produce a sharp, audible click when pressed. Moving on to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing a tactile feedback that some users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch does not have any feel descriptors provided, so its tactile experience is unknown. Overall, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a specific sound and feel profile, the information available for the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is limited. However, based on their respective categories, users can expect a unique typing experience with the Cherry Nixie switch and a potentially satisfying click with the Outemu Blue Jade switch. Ultimately, personal preference and the overall keyboard setup including keycaps and board will also play a significant role in the final typing experience with these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it's important to consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Nixie may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky typing experience with a different feel and sound profile, the Blue Jade could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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