Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Black

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both switches are linear in design. The Crystal switch offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a smooth and linear actuation. Additionally, the Crystal switch provides a neutral sound profile while typing, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Black switch offers a more straightforward and simplistic typing experience with no specific standout features. While the Crystal switch may appeal to those seeking a more distinctive typing experience, the Black switch provides a more traditional and basic typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Outemu Black Linear

$3.40 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Crystal and Outemu Black switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switches have a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound.

While both the Crystal and Black switches have polycarbonate top housing, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material. The split housing approach allows for a balance of sound qualities - the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that with the Crystal switches, users can expect a sharper sound upon release, while the Black switches will offer a deeper sound upon pressing. This unique combination of housing materials gives enthusiasts the option to choose based on their preferred sound profile.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Black switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, but the nylon bottom housing in the Black switches produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing. Choosing between the two switches depends on whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Crystal switches or a deeper sound with the Black switches. Ultimately, the split housing design allows for a customizable typing experience tailored to individual preferences.

Weight

The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Crystal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Black's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Similarly, the Crystal has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams while the Black has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. The Crystal switch provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Black switch offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on keys equipped with either switch will result in a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, users can expect consistent results in terms of key travel regardless of whether they opt for the Crystal or Black switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique linear typing experience with a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing users with a smooth and polished typing experience. This switch also offers a neutral sound profile characterized by a chirpy and high-pitched sound when pressed, which sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have any known subjective qualities in terms of sound or feel. Therefore, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the Crystal switch provides a more distinctive typing experience in both sound and feel compared to the Black switch. Ultimately, it is important to keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. However, if a similar typing experience to the Crystal switch is desired, choosing a higher-pitched switch with a polished feel may yield comparable results.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and do not have specific sound or feel preferences, the Black may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Consider the factors discussed above to make an informed choice that best fits your needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

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