Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Purple

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Purple offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange, renowned for its smooth linear action, provides a seamless typing experience with no tactile bump, making it an ideal choice for gamers who prioritize quick and uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch is a tactile switch that delivers a noticeable bump when pressed, offering a satisfying feedback that many typists prefer for typing accuracy and comfort. While the MX Orange is appreciated for its swift performance, the tactile feedback of the Outemu Purple enhances the tactile experience for those who enjoy feeling each key press. Both switches have their unique advantages, making your choice ultimately dependent on whether you value speed and fluidity or tactile feedback in your keyboard interactions. 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 Purple Tactile

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Purple switches, a distinct difference emerges in the materials used for their top housings. The MX Orange features a nylon top housing, known for its softer properties which contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This inherent quality allows the nylon to better absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Purple boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is significantly stiffer and emits a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This clear, resonant characteristic is instrumental in providing a more pronounced auditory feedback, particularly favored by users who appreciate clarity in their keystrokes.

Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which aligns them more closely in terms of sound profile at this lower level. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound experience by producing a deeper sound reminiscent of the MX Orange, and it effectively absorbs sound to create a more rounded auditory feedback. Consequently, when both switches are used, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that they yield similar deeper sound results upon bottoming out, despite the differences in their top housing materials. This mutual feature allows for a consistent experience in terms of feel and sound, bridging the gap between their design variances.

Overall, the combination of housing materials defines the tactile and acoustic differences between the MX Orange and the Outemu Purple. The MX Orange, with its nylon top, provides a sound profile that is mellower, whereas the Outemu Purple's polycarbonate top results in a crisper sound experience. However, the uniformity of nylon in the bottom housing creates a common ground in the sound produced when a key is fully depressed, contributing to a layered auditory experience regardless of the differences above. As users type, they will notice the distinct sound transitions based on the top housing while still enjoying a consistent base sound quality from the nylon bottom housing in both switches.

Weight

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch exhibit some notable differences in their actuation forces, with the MX Orange requiring 55 grams to actuate compared to the 50 grams needed for the Purple. This makes the Outemu Purple slightly lighter, potentially offering a more comfortable typing experience during extended use or gaming sessions. However, both switches lack specified bottom out forces. Therefore, while we cannot directly compare this particular aspect, the known actuation forces suggest that users who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Outemu Purple, while those seeking a more substantial feel may be better served by the Cherry MX Orange. Overall, the choice will depend on individual preferences for typing sensation and intensity.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they require the same distance of actuation when a key is pressed down. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness from both switches, enhancing the overall typing or gaming experience. With identical travel measurements, switching between these two types may not drastically affect performance or comfort, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch has a reputation for being relatively quiet, making it suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. Its smooth operation contributes to a subtle sound profile that doesn’t disturb those nearby. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch is typically regarded as having a noticeable tactile bump which, while not excessively loud, produces a more pronounced sound during keypresses. This contrast means that while both switches are relatively quiet compared to others on the market, the MX Orange offers a more muted experience, while the Purple may have a slightly more audible presence due to its tactile feedback.

In terms of feel, the MX Orange switch is characterized by its linear response, providing a smooth keypress without any tactile bumps or clicks. This creates an unbroken flow in typing, which some users find satisfying for both gaming and general typing tasks. Conversely, the Outemu Purple switch features a tactile design, delivering a distinct bump at the actuation point. This tactile feedback can enhance typing by providing confirmation that the key has been actuated, which may be particularly beneficial for typists who appreciate a more pronounced response. Thus, while the MX Orange is all about seamlessness, the Purple focuses more on a tactile experience that some users may prefer.

In summary, the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Purple switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The MX Orange is quieter and smoother, appealing to those who enjoy a linear typing experience, while the Outemu Purple offers tactile feedback that can enhance typing sensation, albeit with a slightly more noticeable sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a seamless feel or the tactile reassurance during keypresses; both can yield a satisfying experience depending on your specific typing style and needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Orange linear switches and Outemu Purple tactile switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a smooth, linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Orange is likely your best bet. This switch provides a seamless keystroke, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or when you need to type without interruptions. On the other hand, if you appreciate the satisfying tactile bump that helps you know when a key has been actuated, the Outemu Purple switch is a wonderful option. This can be particularly beneficial for typing, as the tactile feedback can enhance accuracy and reduce typing fatigue over long sessions. In summary, choose the MX Orange for smooth performance in gaming or a minimalist typing experience, and go for the Outemu Purple if you prefer a more traditional, tactile feel that enhances your typing pleasure.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more