Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silver stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The MX Speed Silver is highly praised for its rapid response and maximum speed, making it a popular choice among gamers who require quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is known for its smooth linear action and low spring resistance. While the MX Speed Silver is categorized as textured, thocky, low-pitched, the Outemu Silver does not have any specific categorizations. Both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silver differ in terms of the top housing material used. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Silver uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon housing of the MX Speed Silver provides a more subdued sound experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silver utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, both switches offer a similar typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. The consistency in using nylon for the bottom housing ensures that the typing sound and feel remain consistent across both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silver ultimately comes down to the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences. If a user prefers a deeper and fuller sound with a more subdued tone, the MX Speed Silver with its nylon housing may be the better option. On the other hand, those looking for a crisper and higher-pitched sound, particularly for use with RGB lighting, may find the Outemu Silver with its polycarbonate top housing more appealing. While both switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in the top housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in their performance. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Silver switch's actuation force of 45 grams, making it more responsive to touch. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Silver switch is 65 grams, providing a heavier typing experience compared to the MX Speed Silver, whose bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the MX Speed Silver may be preferred for those who enjoy a lighter touch, while the Silver switch is suitable for users looking for a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while some may find the longer travel distance of the Outemu Silver to provide a more satisfying keystroke depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness of the keys during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Outemu Silver 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 it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound that can be satisfying to the user. On the other hand, information on the sound qualities of the Outemu Silver switch is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, which can provide feedback and a tactile sensation to the user when typing. This texture may offer a different typing experience compared to smoother switches. Unfortunately, there is no information provided on the feel of the Outemu Silver switch, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers specific qualities such as rapid response, a thocky and low-pitched sound, and a textured feel. While details on the Outemu Silver switch are lacking, it is possible that it may provide similar qualities given its linear nature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may cater to different user preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silver linear switches, you should choose the MX Speed Silver if you prioritize ultra-fast response times and a light touch for gaming. The MX Speed Silver's low spring resistance and linear action make it ideal for quick key presses where every millisecond counts. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Outemu Silver linear switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, consider your priorities in terms of speed, feel, and budget when making your decision between these two switches.
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