Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze mechanical keyboard switches, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch known for its low-pitched, textured, and stiff feel. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a classic textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that lacks specific standout features but provides a different typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a unique feel and sound, 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
40g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
Both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Nylon is known for its softer nature compared to harder plastics, which allows it to absorb more sound and produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is satisfying to many typists. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to a smooth and consistent typing experience overall.
While the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches are the same, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with different aspects of typing sound and feel being influenced by different parts of the switch housing.
Overall, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches results in a typing experience that is deep, full, and satisfying for users. The softness of nylon allows for sound absorption and a rounder sound profile that many typists appreciate. Whether it's the bottom-out sound and feel or the sound when a key is released, the nylon housing in both switches contributes to a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in weight between the two. The MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is perfect for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force requirements, catering to individuals with varying preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their keyboard.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key on either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. The Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze are equal in terms of travel distance, providing a consistent typing experience for users who prefer either linear or clicky switches. Despite their differences in operation, the travel distance remains the same for both switches, allowing for similar results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress distance.
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 Spring Breeze 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
The Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its deep, low-pitched sound profile that provides a satisfying auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available, making it difficult to compare directly in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its textured smoothness and stiffness, offering a unique typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. The Outemu Spring Breeze switch lacks a specific feel description, making it challenging to evaluate in this aspect.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you are interested in the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it may be best to test it out for yourself to see if it meets your desired sound and feel preferences. Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the best switch for your typing needs, so exploring different options and experimenting with various switches is key to finding the perfect fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a smooth, deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without a specific sound or feel preference, the Outemu Spring Breeze could be the right choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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