Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Peach

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two intriguing options are the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Peach switches. The Cherry MX Orange switches, known for their original design revived with MX2A enhancements, offer a balanced tactile feedback that caters to users seeking a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, Outemu Peach switches provide a lightweight and silenced action, ideal for those who prefer a feather-light touch while maintaining a smooth linear feel. While both switches fall under the linear category, the Cherry MX Orange stands out for its refined build quality and tactile feedback, whereas the Outemu Peach shines in its muted operation and low actuation force. 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 Peach Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Peach switches, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material gives both switches similar acoustic properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that typists often prefer. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, and this characteristic contributes to a more muffled and rounded auditory experience when typing. Because both switches are constructed from the same nylon material throughout, users can expect a consistent and harmonious sound when typing on either switch.

Furthermore, the implications of using nylon for both the top and bottom housings extend beyond just the sound profile; they also impact the tactile feedback experienced while typing. Since both the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Peach switches employ nylon, the feel of the switches will be relatively similar. The softer plastic of the nylon absorbs vibrations more effectively, creating a smoother keypress experience. This shared material choice means that when users encounter the tactile actuation point of either switch, they will experience a comparable feedback sensation, with both switches offering a satisfying and rounded feeling.

While both switches share identical housing materials, this does not imply that they are indistinguishable in performance or feel. The differences arise from the internal components and design of the switches themselves, which can lead to variations in actuation force and overall typing experience. However, regarding the sound profile and the keypress feel at the bottom, both the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Peach will yield notably similar results due to their nylon construction. Ultimately, users may find that their preferences lean towards one switch over the other not because of housing materials, but rather these nuanced differences in internal design and intended feel.

Weight

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly affect user experience. The MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it a heavier option compared to the Outemu Peach's lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This suggests that users who prefer a firmer keypress may lean towards the MX Orange for its more substantial feel. However, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, while the Peach switch has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it provides a definitive tactile response when fully pressed down. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Peach would be the better choice due to its lower actuation force and its lighter overall feel. In contrast, those who enjoy a heftier typing experience may find the Cherry MX Orange more appealing, despite the lack of information regarding its bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference makes the MX Orange a better option for users who appreciate a deeper, more pronounced keystroke, which many typists and gamers who favor a hearty depth might prefer. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Peach lends itself to quicker response times, appealing to gamers who prefer a more immediate and responsive feel. Since the Cherry MX Orange has a longer travel distance, it is better suited for those valuing a more tactile experience, while the Outemu Peach caters to those who benefit from the efficiency of shorter key presses. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences, the Cherry MX Orange offers a more traditional and deeper travel experience, whereas the Outemu Peach is designed for speed and agility.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a distinct auditory experience that remains unspecified but is generally expected to be more pronounced than its Outemu counterpart. In contrast, the Outemu Peach switch stands out with a neutral and muted sound profile. The Peach's muted nature allows for a quieter typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a favorable option for those working in shared or quieter environments.

In terms of feel, the MX Orange switch's characteristics are again unspecified, leaving its tactile experience open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch is designed for a mild and subtle typing experience, providing gentle resistance without feeling overly heavy. This makes it approachable for users of all experience levels. Additionally, its polished quality ensures smooth key travel, which can enhance overall typing comfort and reduce friction, an aspect that many find appealing.

In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Orange switch's specific sound and feel qualities remain unknown, the Outemu Peach switch provides a clear advantage with its muted sound and gentle, polished feel. Those looking for a muted and light typing experience will find the Peach to be an excellent choice, while the MX Orange may appeal to those seeking a more traditional auditory feedback, even if its attributes are less defined. Ultimately, depending on personal preference, both switches can offer satisfying results, with the Peach being particularly well-suited for quieter settings.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Peach linear switches ultimately boils down to your specific preferences and typing environment. If you favor a switch that captures a nostalgic feel while offering excellent performance, the Cherry MX Orange is a fantastic choice. Its design pays homage to the original MX Orange, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. However, if you’re looking for a lightweight and quiet option, especially for shared workspaces or if you simply enjoy a more delicate touch, the Outemu Peach is ideal. Its muted sound profile and mild feel allow for a subtle yet satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize a gentle tactile response in a quieter setting. By considering your own typing style, the noise level acceptable in your environment, and what you value most in a mechanical switch, you can confidently choose between these two options to enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Peach Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more