Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, to the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Crystal switch offers a smooth and unique linear typing experience with a medium-light weight feel and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Green switch provides a clicky and tactile typing experience. While the Crystal switch is best known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, the Green switch doesn't have any specific standout features beyond its clicky nature. Depending on your preference for a linear or clicky typing experience, either switch could be the right choice for you. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The Outemu Crystal and Outemu Green switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through. The difference comes in the bottom housing material, with the Crystal using polycarbonate and the Green using nylon. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
In terms of sound quality, the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Green switches may have similar top housings made of polycarbonate, but the difference in bottom housing material affects the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal contributes to a more resonant sound upon bottoming out a key, while the nylon bottom housing of the Green produces a duller and rounder sound. This means that the Outemu Crystal may sound crisper and more defined during key presses, while the Outemu Green may offer a smoother and deeper typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Green switches will depend on the sound profile and feel that the user prefers. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a clear and resonant sound, focusing on the sharpness of key presses, while the Green's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a more rounded typing experience. Both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a consistent high-pitched and crisp sound profile, making them suitable for RGB lighting setups. Ultimately, users looking for a sharper sound may prefer the Crystal, while those seeking a deeper tone may opt for the Green.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the heavier 65 grams required for the Green switch. Similarly, the Crystal switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is lighter than the 80 grams needed for the Green switch. Those who prefer a more lightweight typing experience may lean towards the Crystal switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Green switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences in typing feel, with the Crystal being lighter and the Green being heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the feel and responsiveness of the switches. Overall, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, adding a unique and sharp sound profile to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is safe to say that you will get a different sound experience compared to the Crystal. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, there is no specific feel descriptor provided for the Outemu Green clicky switch. This indicates that while the Crystal switch provides a sleek and polished feel, the Green switch may offer a different tactile experience.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a linear typing experience with chirpy and high-pitched sound attributes, the Crystal switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with unknown sound and feel descriptors, the Outemu Green switch may provide a different typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In summarizing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and Outemu Green clicky switch, you should consider the bottom out force as a key factor in your decision. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, with a bottom out force of 55 grams, and enjoy a smooth and refined feel with neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience, with a bottom out force of 80 grams, and enjoy clicky switches with a unique acoustic signature, then the Outemu Green clicky switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
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