Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, a key consideration is the desired tactile experience and sound profile. On one hand, we have the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade), a tactile switch renowned for its sharp tactile feel and premium typing experience. With a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, the Moyu Blacks offer a rare and distinctive typing sensation. The strong downstroke and even sharper upstroke bumps create a hypertactile sensation, accompanied by a satisfyingly sharp, short, snappy, and punchy sound. On the other hand, we have the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available. The Phoenix offers a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile. While both switches have their distinct characteristics, it is important to delve deeper beyond generalities to decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
PBT
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and Outemu Phoenix switches offer contrasting characteristics. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features a PBT top and bottom housing, which provides a neutral sound profile, neither crisp nor dull. In comparison, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, while the Moyu Black may offer a more balanced and subtle sound experience, the Phoenix creates a more vibrant and resonant sound output.
Both the Moyu Black and Outemu Phoenix boast unique housing materials in their switch design. However, the similarities arise from their shared use of PBT and polycarbonate materials in both top and bottom housings. The PBT housing of the Moyu Black offers a neutral sound profile, as does the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix. Though the sound qualities may have slight distinctions, the overall result will be similar in terms of not being overly sharp or dull. Additionally, the use of these materials in both housings ensures a consistent sound output throughout the switch, promoting a cohesive and balanced typing experience.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches, the role of the top and bottom housings becomes evident. Pressing down on the switch will primarily engage the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. With the Moyu Black's PBT bottom housing, the sound profile will remain neutral and consistent. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix will enhance the sharpness and clarity of the sound during bottom-out. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom of a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with PBT offering a more balanced sound upon release and polycarbonate delivering a crisper sound.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Moyu Black has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force for the Phoenix is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level bottom out force, with the Moyu Black being slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the Phoenix's 62 grams.
The actuation force of a switch determines the force required to trigger a keystroke. With the Moyu Black having a known actuation force of 50 grams, it provides users with a specific reference point for their typing experience. In contrast, the actuation force of the Phoenix is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly without further information.
When it comes to bottom out force, both switches fall within the medium range, although the Moyu Black is slightly heavier at 67 grams compared to the Phoenix's 62 grams. This means that when pressing the keys fully down, the Moyu Black will offer a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience in comparison to the Phoenix.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for individuals who prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience. Those who favor lighter switches may find the Moyu Black more suitable, as its actuation force is lighter compared to the unknown actuation force of the Phoenix. This lighter actuation force allows for prolonged typing sessions, making the Moyu Black a good choice for work or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Outemu Phoenix, as its heavier bottom out force of 62 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
In summary, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. While the Moyu Black has a specific actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, the actuation force for the Phoenix is unknown with a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired weight.
Travel distance
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have different travel distances. The Moyu Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm.
The shorter travel distance of the Phoenix can be appealing for gamers or those looking for faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes, which can be advantageous in competitive gaming or any situation where quick reactions are required. However, some individuals may find the shorter distance to be abrupt or lacking in depth.
In contrast, the Moyu Black with its longer 4 mm travel distance may be preferred by individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. The additional depth can provide a more satisfying and tactile experience, especially for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize faster response times and a quicker keystroke, the Phoenix with its shorter travel distance may suit you better. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press, opt for the Moyu Black with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences, and it is important to consider what is most important to you when choosing between them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
The Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a resonant experience. Typing on these switches will produce a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Phoenix switches have a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual results may vary.
In terms of feel, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches are described as accented and sharp. Accented switches provide a medium level of tactility, distinct enough to be noticeable but not overwhelming or subtle. The sharp tactile bump offers a high feedback intensity, allowing you to feel each keypress distinctly. On the contrary, the Phoenix switches are described as polished. This indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by the polished switches contribute to a comfortable typing feel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switches and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Moyu Blacks excel in providing a sharp tactile feel with a unique upstroke bump, resulting in a hypertactile sensation. These switches also offer a resonant sound profile that is satisfyingly sharp and punchy. On the other hand, the Phoenix switches stand out with their under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. They offer a polished feel and smooth key travel.
If you are looking for a tactile switch with a strong tactile bump and resonant sound, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) can provide a premium typing experience. However, if you prefer clicky switches with a unique click mechanism and a polished feel, the Outemu Phoenix switches would be a great choice. It's important to consider your personal preferences and the specific qualities you prioritize when making a decision. Keep in mind that while the descriptions provide a good understanding of the switches, individual experiences may vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycap setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a strong and distinct tactile feel, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a hypertactile sensation with both a sharp downstroke bump and an even sharper upstroke bump, providing a unique and impactful typing experience. Additionally, the medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams adds to the overall satisfying feel. In terms of sound, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a resonant profile with a clean and sharp sound.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more unique and sparkling typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be a better fit. These switches feature an under-skirt click mechanism, making them one of the most unique clicky switches available. The crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile sets them apart. Moreover, the medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a comfortable typing experience. In terms of sound, the Phoenix switches are described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the Outemu Phoenix switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a strong and distinct tactile feel with a resonant sound profile, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) would be a fantastic option. However, if you prioritize a unique and sparkling typing experience with a crunchy sound, the Outemu Phoenix switches would be more suitable. Both switches offer their own exceptional qualities, so consider your typing preferences and choose accordingly.
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