Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Silent Green mechanical keyboard switches, there are notable differences to consider. The Crystal switch offers a unique linear typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch offers a silent typing experience without any specific standout features. While the Crystal switch is best known for its chirpy, high-pitched, and polished characteristics, the Silent Green switch does not have any specific identification. Both switches have their advantages, making them suitable for 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
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Silent Green, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This results in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound and a clear tactile feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
While both switches share the same housing material, they may differ in their overall sound and feel due to variations in design and construction. The Outemu Crystal may emphasize the qualities of the top housing, affecting the sound when a key is released, while the Outemu Silent Green may focus more on the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. These subtle differences in housing design can impact the overall typing experience and preference for users.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Silent Green may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches offer similar characteristics due to their shared polycarbonate housing material, the slight variations in housing design can lead to differences in typing experience. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a more silent typing experience, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall feel and sound of the keystrokes.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch are quite similar, with both having an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal requires 55 grams while the Silent Green requires 60 grams. This slight difference means that the Silent Green is slightly heavier than the Crystal in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. The Crystal can be considered medium-light in terms of weight, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Conversely, the Silent Green, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Crystal being the lighter option and the Silent Green being slightly heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel with either switch. Despite both switches offering the same travel distance, it's worth noting that the Outemu Crystal linear switch may feel slightly smoother due to its different design, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch may offer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results when it comes to key travel distance with either switch, making them suitable options for those looking for a specific typing feel without compromising on key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Silent 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 offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a distinctive acoustic signature compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is known to have a silent operation, although specific descriptors are not provided. Ultimately, your choice of sound profile will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch. If you enjoy a sleek and polished typing experience, the Crystal switch may be the better option for you.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and polished feel, offering a linear typing experience with a medium-light weight. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is known for providing a silent operation, although details about its sound and feel are not available. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a quiet operation, the Silent Green may be more suitable, while the Crystal switch offers a distinctive sound profile and a polished typing feel. Ultimately, trying out both switches and considering your personal preferences will help you determine which one is the best fit for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In summary, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a unique linear typing experience, and a neutral sound profile. The Crystal switches are known for their chirpy and high-pitched sound, as well as their polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch may be more suited to your typing preferences. The Silent Green switches have a medium bottom out force and offer a quieter typing experience compared to the Crystal switches. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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