Outemu Crystal vs. Cherry MX Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, and the Cherry MX Black, also a linear switch. The Crystal switches are known for their elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a one-of-a-kind, linear typing experience. Additionally, typing on these switches produces a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for quiet environments. On the other hand, the MX Black switches from Cherry have been further perfected with their new Hyperglide tooling, offering a classic textured smoothness. These switches provide a familiar deep sound profile and are categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff. Both switches have their own merits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Cherry MX Black Linear

$3.40 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, which is beneficial for those who wish to customize their keyboard lighting. On the other hand, the MX Black employs a nylon top and bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

In terms of aesthetics, the Crystal's polycarbonate housing provides a clear and transparent look, enabling the user to see the internal components of the switch. This can be visually appealing, especially when paired with RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant and visually striking keyboard. The MX Black, with its nylon housing, may not offer the same transparency as the Crystal, but it still maintains a classic and timeless look.

While their materials differ, both the Crystal and the MX Black provide tactile feedback and satisfying typing experiences. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, as it absorbs the impact. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, regardless of the specific housing material, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience.

In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and the Cherry MX Black differ in their housing materials, with the Crystal utilizing polycarbonate and the MX Black featuring nylon. These materials contribute to distinct sound profiles, with the Crystal producing a sharper and crisper sound, while the MX Black delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Aesthetically, the Crystal offers a clear and transparent look, particularly suitable for RGB lighting, while the MX Black maintains a classic appearance. However, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences to consider. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams. This means that the Crystal switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, providing a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Crystal switch has a slightly higher force of 55 grams compared to the MX Black's 80 grams. This indicates that the MX Black switch offers a heavier feel when fully pressed down.

Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Outemu Crystal linear switch more suitable, as it requires less force to activate. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods of time, such as in a work setting or during lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, if one seeks a more substantial and pronounced typing experience, the Cherry MX Black linear switch may be the preferred choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

In cases where a lighter or heavier feel is desired, both switches offer distinct advantages. However, if one wishes to achieve similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, selecting the Crystal switch with a 45-gram actuation and 55-gram bottom out force would provide a comparable experience to the MX Black switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch is 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer the same travel distance, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether using the Outemu Crystal or the Cherry MX Black, users can expect a consistent key press feeling with an equal 4 mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique acoustic experience. Described as "chirpy," these switches have a slight squeak that sets them apart from others. Additionally, they produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them a great choice for those who prefer higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, which some users may find soothing. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a chirpy and high-pitched sound, the Crystal is the way to go, while the MX Black provides a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound.

Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished typing experience. This means that the switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The materials used or factory lubing contribute to this sleek feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making it a stiffer switch. This means more force needs to be applied when pressing the keys. If you prefer a smooth and polished typing experience, the Crystal switch is the better option. However, if you enjoy a textured feel and don't mind a stiffer switch, the MX Black may be more to your liking.

In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a chirpy, high-pitched sound and a polished, smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiffer feel. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches. If you prefer a unique and higher-pitched sound with a polished feel, the Crystal switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lower-pitched sound and don't mind a textured, stiffer feel, the MX Black switch might suit you better. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so consider these as well when making your decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer an elastic type feel and a neutral sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a classic textured smoothness, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the way to go. With Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a familiar deep sound profile when typing. Overall, it comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize the feel or the weight of the switch. If you value a polished, smooth typing experience with reduced friction, go for the Crystal switch. But if you prefer a slightly textured feel and are comfortable with a stiffer switch that requires more force to actuate, the MX Black switch would be a better fit for you.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more