Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Peach are two popular options worth considering. The Crystal switch offers a unique and linear typing experience, thanks to its elastic type feel and medium-light weight. Additionally, typing on these switches produces a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach stands out for its lightweight nature and silent operation. If you're a fan of linear switches and desire a feathery light typing experience, the Peach switches might be just what you're looking for. With their delicate touch and muted sound profile, they cater to those who appreciate subtlety in their typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and Outemu Peach differ in their housing materials. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Crystal's translucent polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Peach incorporates nylon for both its top and bottom housing. Typing on the Peach with its nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of the individual housing materials, polycarbonate brings its distinct characteristics to both the top and bottom housings of the Crystal. This means that pressing down on the Crystal switch will provide a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel, influenced by the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing. When releasing a key, the polycarbonate top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Similarly, nylon's qualities are present in both the top and bottom housing of the Peach switch. When typing on the Peach, the softer nylon bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a deeper and fuller tone. Releasing a key will also be influenced by the nylon top housing, contributing to the overall sound characteristics of the switch.
While the materials and the resulting sound profiles are clearly different between the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Peach, the fact that each housing material affects both the bottom-out and release sounds creates some overlap in terms of overall experience. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality, with differences and nuances influenced by the specific characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces differ between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch. The Outemu Crystal has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Peach's 40 grams. This means that the Crystal switch requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the Crystal switch has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Peach switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Crystal switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down.
In terms of weight, the Crystal switch is slightly heavier than the Peach switch in both actuation and bottom out forces. However, both switches fall within the range of medium-light to light forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions. Despite the differences in force, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out due to their relatively close weights. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether a slightly stronger push or a lighter typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their travel distances. The Crystal has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is considered to be the most traditional distance, while the Peach has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm.
For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Peach switch with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. The shorter distance allows for faster response times, which can be advantageous for gamers or individuals who require quick typing speeds. On the other hand, the Crystal switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke. The additional depth provides a more pronounced tactile feel when pressing down on the keys, which some may find more satisfying and comfortable.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so it is important to consider factors such as responsiveness and depth when making a decision. Whether opting for the shorter travel distance of the Peach or the longer travel distance of the Crystal, the user can expect to experience a distinct and satisfying keystroke sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.40. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Crystal and Peach.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switches offer a unique and slightly squeaky acoustic signature. This sets them apart from other switches and gives them a chirpy sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switches have a more neutral sound profile, producing a soft and quiet sound. The muted characteristics of the Peach switches minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a higher-pitched and slightly squeaky sound, the Crystal switches would be a good choice. If a more neutral and quiet sound is desired, the Peach switches would be better suited.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience. They have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes them suitable for those who prefer a sleek and precise feeling while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience. The switches have a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel that is approachable to most users. Similar to the Crystal switches, the Peach switches also have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Crystal switches tend to have a slightly more refined and precise feel compared to the Peach switches.
Based on the available information, the Outemu Crystal and Peach linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Crystal switches have a unique and slightly squeaky sound profile, while the Peach switches produce a more neutral and quiet sound. In terms of feel, the Crystal switches offer a polished and refined typing experience with reduced friction, while the Peach switches provide a mild and gentle typing experience. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel. Overall, the Crystal switches are best suited for those who prefer a unique sound and a sleek, precise typing experience, while the Peach switches are perfect for linear switch enthusiasts who want a feathery light typing experience with a more neutral sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and a neutral sound profile, making them enjoyable to type on. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience and want the added benefit of silent switches, the Outemu Peach is the way to go. These switches are very lightweight and produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. Additionally, both the Crystal and Peach switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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