Outemu Black vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver stand out as popular options to consider. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is also a linear switch, offering a lightweight feel and quick response time. While the Black switch may be preferred by those looking for a consistent typing experience, the Silver switch could be favored by gamers seeking faster keystrokes. 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and Outemu Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to other plastics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, while both switches have nylon bottom housings, they deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their similarities in housing materials, the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver do have slight differences in their sound profiles due to the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a distinct sound when pressing down on the keys, offering a crisp and resonant typing experience. Conversely, the nylon bottom housings of the switches contribute to the deep and fuller sound when typing, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics like polycarbonate. These differences in housing materials give each switch its own unique sound profile and typing feel.
While the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver share similarities in their housing materials, the impact of each material on the sound profile and typing experience differs slightly. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings of the switches means that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This nuanced combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of both switches results in a balanced sound profile that caters to different typing preferences, offering users a choice between a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound when typing.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Outemu Silver linear switch, we can see a clear difference in weight. The Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Silver switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. The actuation force of the Black switch is higher, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke, while the Silver switch offers a lighter touch. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, catering to individuals who prefer different levels of force in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and intensity.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is crucial in determining how it feels and responds when pressed. In this case, both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of key travel. The consistency in travel distance between the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver switches means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. Whether you opt for the Outemu Black or Outemu Silver linear switch, you can count on a 4 mm travel distance for a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Black and Silver.
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, both the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver linear switches are known for being relatively quiet compared to clicky or tactile switches. However, the Black switch may produce a slightly deeper and thockier sound compared to the Silver switch, which could be slightly higher-pitched. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis, keycap material, and typing technique.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for having a heavier actuation force, providing a more sturdy and robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch is typically lighter in actuation force, allowing for quicker and more effortless keystrokes. The Black switch may offer a more tactile bump upon actuation, while the Silver switch provides a smoother keystroke.
Overall, choosing between the Outemu Black and Outemu Silver linear switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a heavier and more tactile typing experience, the Black switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a lighter and smoother feel while typing, the Silver switch may be more suitable. Keep in mind that both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, and you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on your keyboard setup and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. Go for the Outemu Black linear switch if you prefer a heavier bottom out force at 82 grams, which can provide a more stable typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Outemu Silver linear switch if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force at 65 grams, allowing for a smoother and quicker typing experience. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Black and Silver switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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