Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Tom offer distinct typing experiences. The Crystal is a linear switch that provides a smooth and consistent keystroke, with a medium-light weight and an elastic feel. This results in a unique typing experience that is neutral in sound profile. On the other hand, the Tom is a tactile switch that lacks any specific standout feature like the Crystal, but provides a more traditional tactile feedback. While the Crystal may be preferred for its linear typing experience, the Tom's tactile feedback may be more appealing to those who prefer a more traditional feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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 Tom switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that provides clarity and resonance to the switch's sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Outemu Tom switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
When comparing the top housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Tom switches, both switches offer similar benefits due to their polycarbonate construction. The use of polycarbonate in the top housings creates a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Tom utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with the softer nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Tom switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the clear and resonant sound profile of the switch, while the Tom's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile, with the top housing influencing the sound when letting go of a key and the bottom housing affecting the sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal requires 55 grams of force while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crystal switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Tom switch. It's important to consider these weight differences when choosing a switch for your keyboard, based on your personal preference for typing feel and intensity.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Crystal switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional key press feel, while the Tom switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of average travel distances, with the Crystal being on the longer end and the Tom being on the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Tom 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, giving it a unique acoustic profile that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Crystal switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Tom switch is also unknown.
Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile along with a polished and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Crystal switch would be a great choice. However, if you are uncertain about the sound and feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch, opting for the Crystal switch may still provide a similar typing experience due to their similar construction and design. It is important to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to find the one that suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique, elastic typing experience with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a bottom out force that is unavailable and do not mind sacrificing the descriptors of sound and feel, then the Outemu Tom tactile switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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