In the world of mechanical keyboards, enthusiasts and typists alike recognize that the feel and response of a switch can greatly affect the typing experience. I’ve observed that Cherry MX switches, with their German-engineering pedigree, are often at the forefront of discussions regarding quality and performance. The Cherry MX Black Clear Top is a particularly interesting switch due to its origins and characteristics. This switch is a revival of a classic variant, known as “MX Nixie,” which was originally manufactured for Nixdorf Computer AG in the 1980s. Not only does it pay homage to its historical background, but it also retains the acclaimed properties that made it a community favorite.
One key aspect of the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switch that I find remarkable is its linear switching characteristic. It provides a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump or audible click found in other switch variants, which might appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience or who prefer a fluid, uninterrupted key press. To enhance this switch’s unique profile, it also incorporates a slightly increased actuation force, which can improve typing precision by reducing the likelihood of accidental keystrokes.
Furthermore, I have noticed that the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switch includes a golden spring and a milky top housing, a combination that not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also to its functional integrity. It’s engineered to deliver a powerful and direct feel that many typists and gamers seek. With the recent reintroduction of this switch into the market, I see it bridging the gap between the nostalgia of mechanical keyboard history and the cutting-edge performance desired by users today.
Historical Development
In this section, I will explore the historical progression of the Cherry MX Black Clear-Top switch, focusing on its origins and how it has evolved over time.
Origins of Cherry MX
Cherry MX switches, initially manufactured in Germany, have been a staple in precision keyboard switches since their inception in 1983. Their development marked a significant milestone in keyboard technology, with each switch designed for specific tactile and auditory feedback preferences, catering to a highly engaged user community.
- Cherry MX Black: An original variant in the Cherry MX line, known for its linear actuation and absence of tactile feedback, making it suitable for users who prioritize direct keystroke response.
Evolution of MX Black
Through my research, I have learned that the MX Black Clear-Top was a distinctive spin on the traditional Cherry MX Black switch.
- MX Black Clear-Top (Nixies): Produced in the 1980s for Nixdorf Computer AG, these had special milky-clear tops with linear actuation and have since become a collector’s item within the mechanical keyboard community.
- Resurgence: Cherry revitalized production of the MX Black Clear-Top with modern manufacturing techniques to meet the community’s demand for this vintage switch, maintaining the original feel that many enthusiasts admire.
Design and Specifications
In exploring the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches, I’ll detail their key design elements and provide a comparative breakdown of how they fare against other MX variants, focusing on the aspects that are crucial for user preference and device performance.
Key Characteristics of MX Black Switches
The Cherry MX Black Clear Top is a mechanical key switch that I define by its linear actuation and no tactile bump. I recognize it for a consistent actuation force of approximately 63.5cN and a distinctive design with a milky upper housing and a black bottom housing. These key switches boast a 2.0 mm pre-travel distance and 4.0 mm total travel distance, which align with the standard MX design considerations. Notably, it employs the renowned Gold Crosspoint contact system, ensuring reliability and precision in actuation without contact feedback.
- Actuation force: ~63.5cN
- Pre-travel: 2.0 mm
- Total travel: 4.0 mm
- Contact system: MX Gold Crosspoint
- Design: Milky top, black bottom housing
Comparative Analysis of MX Black Variants
Comparing the MX Black Clear Top to its counterparts, I find the actuation force slightly higher than the standard MX Black’s 60cN, offering a firmer keystroke. Both switches are manufactured with the Gold Crosspoint technology for dependable performance. The Clear Top variant is characterized by its unique coloration and upper housing design, distinguishing it from other MX Black switches. These switches are engineered and made in Germany, maintaining the high-quality craftsmanship associated with the Cherry MX brand.
- Standard MX Black
- Actuation force: ~60cN
- Color: Black housing
- MX Black Clear Top
- Actuation force: ~63.5cN
- Color: Milky top with black bottom housing
I compare these switches on a few fundamental criteria while staying true to their common lineage as Cherry MX products, known for their precision and durability.
Mechanical Characteristics
In examining the Cherry MX Black Clear Top, it’s important to focus on the switch’s mechanical properties that contribute to its performance and durability.
Performance and Durability
I find the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches known for their distinct linear switching characteristics, which lack a tactile bump or audible click during actuation. This results in a smooth keystroke, enhancing typing fluency when speed and precision are necessary. Here’s a brief overview of their performance:
- Operating Force: Approximately 60 cN
- Actuation: Linear, without pressure point
- Durability: Rated for high number of keystrokes, ensuring longevity
The force required to actuate the switch is crucial for performance. These switches require an actuation force of around 60 to 63.5 centinewtons (cN), signifying the amount of pressure needed to register a keystroke. Known for durability, these switches are crafted for extensive use and maintain consistent performance throughout their lifespan.
Switches and Ergonomics
From an ergonomic perspective, Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches offer a balance between resistance and ease of keystroke, which can reduce finger fatigue during prolonged use. Here’s how they compare with other MX switches:
- MX Red: Lighter operating force, more suitable for gaming
- MX Brown: Tactile feedback, preferred by typists
- MX Clear: Tactile and heavier than Brown, less common
- MX Silent Black/Red: Less noise, with a dampening effect
- MX Speed Silver: Fast response, shorter actuation distance
- MX Low Profile Red/Speed: Slimmer design, fast actuation
- MX ULP Click/Tactile: Ultra-low profile, different tactile experience
The MX Black Clear Top switches, often referred to as “nixie” switches among enthusiasts, are compared to these variants to highlight their unique balance of smoothness and force which makes for efficient, linear keypresses without the added feedback present in tactile or clicky switches.
Usage and Applications
In my exploration of the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches, I’ve noticed their specific characteristics influence their usage in various contexts, notably in gaming and typing, as well as their place in the industry and community.
Gaming and Typing Experience
My assessment of the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches reveals that their linear switch design lacks the tactile bump found in other variants, offering a smooth keystroke. This feature has significant implications in gaming where I find that the consistent actuation force of approximately 63.5cN facilitates rapid, repeated keystrokes, which gamers often require. For typing, the linear feedback of these switches may differ in appeal. The lack of tactile response could be less satisfying for typists who prefer a noticeable bump to confirm key actuation.
Industry Adoption and Community
I’ve observed that the mechanical keyboard sector values the Cherry MX Black Clear Top for its precision and durability, which has led to its adoption in specialized industrial applications. Notable for their high-precision mechanics and long-lasting reliability, these switches have a legacy that contributes to their popularity within enthusiast communities. The retro aesthetics of the clear-top design alongside the reliable performance seem to resonate well with mechanical keyboard aficionados who prioritize both form and function in their setups.
As for RGB compatibility, my knowledge suggests that the transparent upper housing of these switches should enhance the illumination of RGB LEDs found in many gaming keyboards, thereby satisfying users who value aesthetics as much as performance. However, it is essential to use this switch in a keyboard designed for SMD LEDs to take full advantage of its RGB potential.
Technical Considerations
In addressing the technical considerations of the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches, I focus on how they enable customization and maintenance, and the compatibility they offer for keycaps, all imperative for the informed enthusiast.
Maintenance and Customization
The first area of technical scrutiny for me is how Cherry MX Black Clear Top’s design affects maintenance and customization. This switch variant, known for its durability and consistent keystrokes, is defined by a linear actuation and lacks tactile feedback. When it comes to lubrication, factory-applied lubricant ensures smooth key actuation out of the box. For enthusiasts looking to further enhance the feel, Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0 is a commonly recommended lubricant due to its thick consistency.
Maintaining stabilizers is also a consideration, and users should assure that they are properly lubricated to preserve the key switch’s integrity. Ideally, during maintenance, I pay special attention to the switch’s housing which can accumulate dust and debris. Regular cleaning and appropriate lubrication are paramount to extend the lifespan of the switches and to ensure that keystrokes remain precise.
Key Compatibility and Selection
Selecting the appropriate keycaps is another important technical consideration. The Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches are known for their distinct housing – a clear top designed for optimal backlighting with a standard bottom – contributing to broad keycap compatibility. It’s essential for me to note that these switches accommodate most aftermarket keycap sets due to their Cherry MX stem design.
Compatibility extends beyond individual keys; I look for key rollover and CT06-CT07/2 M softkeys functionalities that are also supported for these switches, ensuring that all presses are registered accurately, even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. To procure these switches, I verify the distributor’s credibility and whether they stock the genuine article to avoid counterfeit products that do not meet the robust expectations set by authentic Cherry MX switches.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, I cover some common inquiries about the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches, providing clarity on their features, performance, and availability.
What are the differences between Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches and the standard Black switches?
Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches are linear like the standard MX Black, but they have a special milky top housing. They are designed to offer a consistent actuation force of approximately 63.5 cN, sans tactile feedback.
How do Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches compare to Nixie linear switches?
The Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches are often likened to the vintage “Nixie” switches, renowned for their smooth operating force and distinct acoustics, yet they bring modern enhancements for greater reliability and performance.
Where can I find Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches for sale?
Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches can typically be found through online retailers specializing in mechanical keyboard components or directly from vendors of custom mechanical keyboard parts.
Can Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches be considered an upgrade over the original Cherry MX Blacks?
Considering their precision and special housing design, the Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches provide a unique typing experience that many consider an upgrade due to enhanced smoothness and aesthetic appeal.
What are the auditory characteristics of Cherry MX Black Clear Top switches compared to other switches?
These switches offer a distinctive sound profile that is generally quieter and smoother than other mechanical switches, appealing to users who prefer a less clicky, more subdued typing noise.
What are the benefits of using Cherry MX Clear switches for typing or gaming?
Cherry MX Clear switches are known for their tactile bump and higher actuation force, which can reduce typing errors and offer a different experience from the linear Black Clear Top switches. They’re favored for both typing and gaming due to their tactile feedback and precise control.
I’m Marcus Bextor, a seasoned software engineer passionate about demystifying technology. With over a decade in the tech industry, my journey began with a Computer Science degree, evolving through various roles in software development, system architecture, and project management. At MWTA, I leverage my expertise to provide in-depth, unbiased reviews of the latest tech products, from smartphones to smart homes. My blogs aim to be accessible to all, breaking down complex jargon into simple language. Besides reviews, I share insights on tech trends and practical tips. Connect with me for questions and suggestions as we explore the tech world together.