Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Red both offer a linear typing experience, but with some noticeable differences. The MX Black, known for its low-pitched, textured, and stiff feel, has been perfected by Cherry with their Hyperglide tooling, providing a classic smoothness and deep sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red lacks a specific standout feature but offers a straightforward linear feel. Depending on your preference, you may choose the MX Black for its unique characteristics or the Outemu Red for a simple yet effective 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
60g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Red switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences due to the properties of the materials used. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, polycarbonate's stiffer composition leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the MX Black and the Red switches feature nylon material, which contributes to a similar typing experience with a deep and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures that users will have a familiar typing experience with both switches. However, the bottom housing also plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of the switch when pressed down, highlighting the importance of selecting the right material for both the top and bottom housings.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Red switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The contrasting qualities of the nylon and polycarbonate materials used in the top housing of these switches offer distinct sound profiles, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound while polycarbonate offers a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a softer, rounder sound or a clear and resonant sound, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. However, both switches share a similar typing experience due to the nylon bottom housing, maintaining a consistent feel and sound profile when pressing down on the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the MX Black switch is the heavier option. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch is lighter in comparison, with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Outemu Red switch a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing feel, allowing them to type for longer periods of time comfortably. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the MX Black switch offers a heavier touch, while the Outemu Red switch offers a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Red linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is important as it affects the overall feel and feedback of the keyboard. In this case, users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Despite having the same travel distance, the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Red switches may still differ in other aspects such as actuation force or sound. Overall, users can be confident that whether they choose the Cherry MX Black or Outemu Red linear switch, they will get a consistent and satisfying typing experience.
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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound profile is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is characterized by its textured feel, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be preferred by some users for its unique typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch is also stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is unknown.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a deep sound profile with a textured and stiff feel, providing a classic typing experience for users who enjoy a bit of resistance and tactile feedback. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Red linear switch are unknown, it is likely that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and possibly a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Red switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured, stiff feel with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Cherry MX Black switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a more medium feel and sound with a smoother typing experience, then the Outemu Red switch would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort and sound.
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