Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Crystal Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Crystal Brown offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers who prefer rapid, uninterrupted input without tactile feedback or audible clicks. This quality can lead to faster response times during gameplay while also providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, delivers a noticeable bump at the actuation point, offering users tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and make it easier to register each keystroke. This feature is particularly appealing for typists and programmers who value the physical response of their keyboard. Both switches have unique advantages that make them worthwhile candidates, depending on your needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Crystal Brown switches feature different top housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles during keypresses. The MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. This sound profile is largely attributed to the ability of nylon to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded acoustic experience. Conversely, the Outemu Crystal Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a stiffer structure that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity, but it also allows RGB lighting to shine through vividly, creating an aesthetically pleasing effect that nylon cannot provide.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Crystal Brown utilize nylon, which creates a consistent element in their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing tends to elicit a deeper, fuller sound during key press actuation, reinforcing the overall acoustic characteristics shared between the two switches. This commonality demonstrates that while the top housings diverge in material—and hence sound—there is a cohesive grounding in the bottom housing, allowing for a shared auditory quality when typing. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out feel and sound signifies that despite their differences in top materials, both switches maintain a similar acoustic texture during key presses.

Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials between the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Crystal Brown create unique typing experiences, while the use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches ensures a fundamentally similar response during key press and bottom-out interactions. The MX Orange's nylon top retains a more muted auditory quality, whereas the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top yields greater clarity and brightness. Therefore, while users may enjoy distinct sound profiles with respect to the specific switches, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing for both contributes to a common foundation in the user experience, with variations being most noticeable in the way the switches project sound when keys are released versus pressed.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we note key differences in their actuation forces. The MX Orange has a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, while the Crystal Brown is lighter at just 45 grams. This means that typists and gamers who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods may find the Crystal Brown more comfortable to use. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Orange's value remains unknown, leaving us to rely on the Crystal Brown's bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light. Therefore, while both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange requires more effort to actuate, making it a better choice for those who prefer a firmer typing feel. Conversely, the Outemu Crystal Brown is more suitable for users seeking a lighter and less strenuous keypress, particularly beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or gaming.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users pressing these switches will experience the same distance from top to bottom when activating a key. As a result, both switches will provide similar results in terms of key press feedback and response time, which may appeal to both gamers and typists seeking a consistent experience. Since their travel distances are the same, users can expect a comparable sensory experience regardless of their preference between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, the MX Orange is known for being relatively quiet, producing a subtle sound with each keystroke that can be less disruptive in quiet environments. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown typically produces a softer sound as well, but this is accompanied by a noticeable tactile bump, which may add a slight click or thump during operation. It's important to note that the actual sound can vary based on the type of keyboard and keycaps you choose, so while both switches may offer similar sound characteristics, the overall acoustic experience can still differ depending on your specific setup.

When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch has a smooth, linear action that provides an unbroken key travel without any tactile feedback. This results in a consistent experience throughout the entire stroke, making it a great option for users who prefer a fluid typing experience, such as gamers who want rapid key presses. Conversely, the Outemu Crystal Brown offers a distinctly tactile sensation, with a noticeable bump at the actuation point. This tactile feedback is appreciated by typists who enjoy a sensation to guide them during typing, potentially enhancing typing accuracy and satisfaction. Thus, while the MX Orange caters to those who prefer smooth and uninterrupted travel, the Crystal Brown caters to tactile enthusiasts who value feedback in their keystrokes.

In summary, while both the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer unique qualities, they serve different preferences among users. The MX Orange provides a quieter and smoother typing experience ideal for those who enjoy linear switches, whereas the Crystal Brown introduces a tactile feel that can be a boon for typists. Each switch can accommodate various user needs, so the choice ultimately hinges on whether one prioritizes smoothness or tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will play a significant role. If you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with no tactile bump, the Cherry MX Orange may be ideal for you, especially if you enjoy gaming or fast typing, as its linear nature can facilitate quick keypresses without any distraction. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced feedback when typing, the Outemu Crystal Brown's tactile switch offers a satisfying bump that can help with typing accuracy while still being relatively quiet compared to other tactile options. Additionally, the 55-gram actuation of the Crystal Brown is suitable for those who enjoy a medium-light key feel without being too soft. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor a smooth experience with the MX Orange or a tactile feel with the Crystal Brown. Consider trying both if possible, as hands-on experience can greatly inform your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more