Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is important to consider the unique characteristics of each. The Crystal switch is best known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a distinctive linear typing experience. Additionally, it offers a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Red switch does not have any specific standout features. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red both feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Crystal has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Red features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound.
While the top housing of both the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Red are made of polycarbonate, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The split in housing materials allows for a combination of qualities in each switch. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile, while the Red's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound. This creates a unique typing experience for users of either switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Red switches showcase how different housing materials can affect the sound and feel of a keyboard switch. Both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, but diverge in their bottom housing materials - with the Crystal featuring polycarbonate and the Red featuring nylon. These differences result in a distinct typing experience for users, with the Crystal providing a clear and resonant sound, while the Red offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have fairly similar weights. The Crystal has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red's 46 grams, making the Crystal the lighter option. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Crystal requires 55 grams of force while the Red requires 62 grams, making the Red the heavier option in this aspect. Overall, both switches fall within the medium-light to medium weight range. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Red. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled by the switch from the top to the bottom. Having the same travel distance allows for consistent typing experience and feedback for users who prefer either switch. Therefore, whether you choose the Outemu Crystal or Outemu Red linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Red 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 medium-light weight and elastic feel, providing a unique linear typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Crystal switch has a neutral sound profile with a chirpy and high-pitched characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have any specific sound qualities listed. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Outemu Red switch does not have any feel qualities listed.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile along with a polished feel, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have specific sound or feel characteristics listed. If sound is important to the typing experience, the Crystal switch may provide a more distinctive and unique sound profile. However, if feel is the primary focus, the polished feel of the Crystal switch may offer a smoother typing experience compared to the Outemu Red switch. Ultimately, both switches are linear and may provide similar results in terms of typing performance, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a slightly lighter actuation force and a unique linear typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force with a medium typing experience, the Red switch might be more suitable. Keep in mind the sound profile and feel characteristics described for each switch to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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