Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, and the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch. The Crystal switch is best known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a unique linear typing experience. Additionally, it offers a neutral sound profile while typing, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter option. On the other hand, the Gold switch does not have any specific standout features but is known for its clicky tactile feedback. This switch is categorized as clicky, offering a satisfying tactile response with each key press. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Gold switches, it is evident that both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, highlighting its aesthetic appeal. However, when looking at the bottom housing, the Outemu Crystal uses polycarbonate while the Outemu Gold utilizes nylon. This contrast in materials leads to a difference in sound profiles, with the Crystal offering a clear and resonant sound, while the Gold provides a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer and sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials between the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Gold switches, it is important to note that the top housing remains the same with polycarbonate in both cases. This consistency in material for the top housing ensures that users can expect similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles from both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon results in varying impacts on the sound and feel of the switches. The softer nature of nylon in the Gold switch creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate in the Crystal switch.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Gold switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings leading to a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials makes for a noticeable contrast in sound between the two. The nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Gold results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Outemu Crystal contributes to a more resonant and clear sound. Users must consider these material differences when choosing between the two switches based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is clear that the Crystal has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Gold's 60 grams. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the initial force needed to register a keystroke is the same for both. The Crystal provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferable for those looking for a smoother typing feel. On the other hand, the Gold switch offers a slightly firmer bottom out force, providing a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. However, while both switches offer the same travel distance, the type of feedback you'll receive when typing differs. The Crystal switch provides a smooth linear feel with no tactile bump, making it a popular choice for gamers and fast typists who prefer a consistent key press. On the other hand, the Gold switch offers a clicky feedback with an audible sound and tactile bump, which can be satisfying for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Despite these differences in feedback, the travel distance remains the same for both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10.
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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight that offers a fairly elastic feel while typing. This switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any known specific qualities mentioned in the provided information.
In terms of sound, the Crystal switch is characterized as chirpy and high-pitched, giving it a distinctive acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. This sound profile may be preferred by users who enjoy a sharp and crisp typing sound. However, without any information on the sound qualities of the Gold clicky switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This can be attributed to the materials used and possible factory lubrication of the switch. As for the Outemu Gold switch, there is no specific information provided regarding its feel.
Overall, based on the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch stands out for its unique linear typing experience, neutral sound profile, and polished feel. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific details on its sound and feel qualities, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in these aspects. It's important to consider individual preferences and needs when choosing between these switches to ensure the best typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is important to take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a unique linear feel and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium typing experience with a clicky feel, the Outemu Gold switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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