Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the linear switch category, offering a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a unique typing experience that some users may find satisfying. Additionally, the inclusion of a light diffuser adds a vibrant touch to any RGB-lit keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch doesn't have any specific standout features mentioned, making it a more straightforward option for those who prefer a simple and efficient typing 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
48g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Black switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. On the other hand, the Outemu Black's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
While both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Black switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of key feedback and sound qualities, as both switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Black switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches produces a sharp and crisp sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Black offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prioritize clarity and resonance or a duller, more round sound, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Overall, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to a tactile and audibly pleasing typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Black's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams, while the Black demands 82 grams for a bottom out. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Lightning Silver V3 has the shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Black. The shorter travel distance of the Lightning Silver V3 may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu Black may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
Overall, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is praised for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. The unique light diffuser feature adds a vibrant touch to any keyboard setup, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, information on the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch is not available. Therefore, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a smooth typing feel, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 may be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the overall keyboard setup you are aiming to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a lighter bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound signature, then the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch would be a great choice for you. The smooth and seamless typing experience, along with the vibrant RGB illumination, make it a popular option for those who prioritize both aesthetics and performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are seeking a linear switch with a quieter sound profile, the Outemu Black linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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