Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Cherry MX Black switch is renowned for its smooth and textured typing experience, with a deep sound profile that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch doesn't have as much of a distinct reputation but still offers a linear typing experience. If you prefer a low-pitched, textured, and stiff switch, then the Cherry MX Black may be the way to go. 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
60g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Black, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and more sound-absorbing properties. However, the Cherry MX Black stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by nylon. The polycarbonate material also allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing a more visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboard aesthetics.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Black use nylon, leading to a similar deep and full sound profile as a result of the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures that users will experience a familiar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, it is important to note that the qualities brought by the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Black share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the Cherry MX Black's inclusion of polycarbonate for the top housing sets it apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetic possibilities. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cherry MX Black offers a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the duller sound produced by nylon, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a more distinctive typing experience. However, for those who prioritize a consistent and familiar typing feel, the Outemu Black's use of nylon for both top and bottom housing ensures a reliable and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, we can see that both switches are on the heavier side. The Cherry MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the Outemu Black switch is slightly heavier in both categories. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Black may be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Outemu Black switch may be preferred. In either case, both switches provide a solid and durable typing experience, with the choice between them ultimately coming down to personal preference.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, allowing users to experience a similar key press feel on both switches. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for individuals who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster typing speeds. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so users can expect similar results when using either the Cherry MX Black or the Outemu Black linear switch. This makes them both suitable options for those who enjoy a shorter travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the Outemu Black 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched and deep sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black is known for its textured feel, which some users may find to be slightly scratchy but prefer for the added tactile feedback. Additionally, the MX Black switch is also on the stiffer side, requiring a higher actuation force compared to other switches. As for the Outemu Black switch, information about its feel is currently unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a deep and low-pitched sound profile, along with a textured and stiff feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch remain unknown in terms of sound and feel. If one is looking for a similar sound and feel to the Cherry MX Black, opting for the Outemu Black could potentially provide comparable results, but it is important to keep in mind that individual preferences ultimately play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a textured and stiff typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switch with its iconic smoothness and deep sound may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a heavy switch with less distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, the Outemu Black switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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