# 80s-Inspired Keyboard Switches Cherry’s New Keyboard Switches are Inspired by the ‘Nixie’ By Kanesa D | Published 2022-11-05 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cherry-1 References: [theverge](https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/4/23440218/cherry-mx-black-clear-top-nixie-switch-price-release-date-features-mechanical-keyboard) & [novelkeys](https://novelkeys.com/products/cherry-mx-black-clear-tops)  [Cherry’s](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cherry-mx-ergo-clear) ‘MX Black Clear-Top’ keyboard is the brand’s newest mechanical keyboard that takes inspiration from the ‘80s-centric ‘[Nixdorf](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vynamic)’ keyboards, which are commonly referred to as ‘“Nixies.” The vintage switches, essentially a linear Cherry MX Black variation using a heavier spring and a clear plastic shell, have grown in popularity as collector's items and are coveted for their alleged smoothness and rich sound. Its shape is also influenced by the traditional [Nixie](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/instant-disc-audio-cp1), and the top half is made of somewhat transparent plastic. The ‘Clear-Top’ is available in two versions: one with pre-applied lubrication and one without. The new ‘MX Black Clear-Top’ switches will be obtainable in the first half of 2023. They are currently available for preorder through vendor NovelKeys for $21.60 for a pack of 36 switches, or around 60 cents each. Image Credit: Cherry ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.3/10 - Popularity: 31% | Activity: 26% | Freshness: 13% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/computers) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Vintage-inspired Keyboards:** Opportunity for companies to design and manufacture keyboards that capture the nostalgia of the 80s while incorporating modern functionality. - **Customizable Keyboard Switches:** Opportunity for companies to create customizable keyboard switches, with variations in weight, sound, and lubrication for the ultimate user experience. - **Transparent Keyboard Design:** Opportunity for companies to innovate with transparent materials to create visually appealing and unique keyboard designs. ### Who This Affects Most - **Computer Hardware:** Opportunity for companies in the computer hardware industry to produce vintage-inspired keyboards that cater to the retro enthusiast market. - **Gaming:** Opportunity for gaming companies to design and develop high-performance vintage-inspired keyboards with customizable switch variations for enhanced gameplay. - **Office Supplies:** Opportunity for office supply companies to create transparent and customizable keyboards for a sleek and unique user experience in the workplace. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Community-Inspired Mechanical Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cherry-mx-ergo-clear.md) - [Tactile Sound-Free Keyboard Switches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cherry-mx-ultra-low-profile-tactile.md) - [Budget-Friendly Keyboard Switches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/akko.md) - [Silent Mechanical Office Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cherry-kw-550-mx-lp.md) - [Digital Professional Mechanical Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cherry-kc-200-mx.md) - [Tactile Gamer Keyboard Switches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glorious-raptor-clicky-switches.md) - [Early Computer-Inspired Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mechanical-keyboard-m-edition.md) - [Pre-Oiled Keyboard Switches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oil-king-linear.md) - [Nostalgic 90s Keyboard Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/class-1800-mechanical-keyboard.md)