Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Lightning Silver V3 is popular for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, coupled with a silky typing experience that is seamless. Additionally, the light diffuser feature enhances RGB illumination, making it visually appealing. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch lacks any standout features but provides a tactile feedback for those who prefer a tactile response while typing. Choosing between these switches may depend on whether you prioritize the unique sound profile and smooth typing experience of the Lightning Silver V3 or the tactile feedback of the Outemu Tom. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tom switches have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Tom utilize different materials for their bottom housings, the impact of these materials is significant. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 enhances the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to its overall typing experience. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Tom switches offers a different tactile feel and sound quality when compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3. This difference in bottom housing material can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
In the end, the choice between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Tom will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Lightning Silver V3 providing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its polycarbonate housing, while the Tom switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile with their nylon bottom housing. Depending on whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a rounder and fuller sound, either of these switches may suit your typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 will require less pressure to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 also has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it will be easier to fully press down on the keys compared to the Tom, whose bottom out force is unknown. This difference in forces may result in a lighter and smoother typing experience with the Lightning Silver V3, while the Tom may provide a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Lightning Silver V3 being the longer of the two by just 0.1 mm. For those who favor a quicker response time, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the preferred choice due to its slightly longer travel distance. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which some users may find more suitable for fast-paced gaming or typing. Ultimately, the differences in travel distance between the two switches are minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 Tom 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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the sound qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lightning Silver V3 is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the tactile feedback and feel of the Outemu Tom switch.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky smooth typing experience, the information on the Outemu Tom tactile switch is limited. If you are looking for a unique sound profile and seamless typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the way to go. However, without details on the feel and sound of the Outemu Tom switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch or the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for a clacky and high-pitched sound signature along with a smooth typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp and snappy sound when typing and prefer a silky smooth feel, the Lightning Silver V3 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if sound and feel are not the top priorities for you, the Tom tactile switch may be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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