Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Raw and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, each offers its own unique characteristics. The Keygeek Raw stands out with its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, creating a delightfully creamy yet lightweight switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Black remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its specifics. The Keygeek Raw is best suited for those who prefer a slightly textured feel straight out of the box and enjoy hand-lubing their switches, while the Outemu Black provides a more standard linear switch experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Outemu Black, one major difference lies in the top housing material used. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which is known for creating a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction can impact the overall typing experience, with the Keygeek Raw offering a more exclusive and potentially appealing sound compared to the Outemu Black's higher-pitched sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend bottom housing contrasts with the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Black. The UMPE & Si blend is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches and provides a different typing experience compared to the classic use of nylon in the Outemu Black. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties, while the UMPE & Si blend may offer a more unique and potentially enhanced typing experience. This difference in bottom housing materials can significantly impact how each switch feels and sounds during use.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Outemu Black offer distinct qualities, the importance of these housing materials can be seen in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between the bottom and top housing materials can result in different typing experiences, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the unique sound profile of the Keygeek Raw's housing materials or the classic typing experience of the Outemu Black, both switches offer their own advantages based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
The Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke compared to the Outemu Black, which has an actuation force of 65 grams. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, which is lighter than the Outemu Black's bottom out force of 82 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Keygeek Raw, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Outemu Black. Despite the differences in force requirements, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their linear nature, providing smooth keystrokes without a tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Keygeek Raw. The Keygeek Raw with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time, as shorter travel distances are known for providing quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Outemu Black with its longer travel distance may be better suited for users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Black linear switch is unavailable. Please note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a slightly textured typing experience right out of the box, which can be further enhanced with hand-lubing for enthusiasts. It is also described as having a mild and subtle typing feel, creating a comfortable and approachable typing experience. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Black linear switch is not provided, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch would be a suitable option to consider. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch are unknown in terms of sound and feel, it's possible that you may achieve similar results to the Keygeek Raw switch if that is the type of typing experience you are looking for. Ultimately, it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lighter switch with a unique material blend and a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a higher bottom out force, the Outemu Black linear switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider your desired actuation force, material blend, and sound and feel preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and Outemu Black switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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