Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be overwhelming, but two popular choices are the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Red switches, each bringing unique characteristics to the typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are renowned for their tactile feedback, providing a short yet noticeable bump that enhances typing precision and satisfaction, making them an excellent choice for users who value responsive keypresses and enjoy a bit of feedback while gaming or typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches offer a linear switch experience, meaning they provide a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bump, catering to users who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing experience, ideal for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions. Each switch appeals to different preferences, whether you desire the tactile sensation of the Cherry MX Purple or the sleek linear response of the Outemu Red. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and Outemu Red switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly impacts their overall acoustic profiles. The MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing, a material that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Since polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it enables a more resonant quality in the audio output, making the typing experience distinctively brighter. Aesthetically, the clear nature of the polycarbonate also contributes visually to the RGB lighting effects, allowing them to shine through more effectively compared to the light-blocking capacities of nylon.
On the bottom housing side, both the MX Purple RGB and Outemu Red employ nylon material, aligning their acoustic performance and tactile feedback. With both switches leveraging a nylon bottom housing, they share the ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. This commonality ensures that regardless of the difference in the top housing materials, users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of sound absorption and resonance when the keys are pressed down. This shared material creates a harmonious interaction within each switch that allows for a consistent feel as both are designed to dampen and soften the impact that the user feels when typing.
In analyzing the combined effects of both the top and bottom housing materials, it is evident that the switching experience can vary significantly. The Cherry MX Purple RGB's dual nylon construction in the bottom housing ensures that the overall tactile feedback remains consistent with its sound profile, promoting a muted acoustic characteristic when pressing keys. Conversely, the Outemu Red, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom, creates an appealing contrast by delivering a brighter sound that cuts through with clarity, while maintaining a softer tactile interaction on the key press. Ultimately, the differences in their top housings mean that while typists can achieve a similar bottoming-out experience, their auditory perceptions will still diverge, making each switch unique in its full performance package.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we can see some differences in their actuation forces, which directly affect typing experience. The MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Outemu Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams. This makes the Cherry MX Purple RGB the lighter option, which could be more suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience during long sessions, whether for work or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Purple RGB's data is unknown, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison with the Outemu Red's bottom out force of 62 grams. However, if the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple were available and similar to that of the Outemu Red, users might expect comparable bottoming out experiences. For now, the Outemu Red is clearly heavier in terms of bottom out force, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial feeling while typing.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they provide an identical feel when pressed down. This uniformity allows users to expect a similar keypress experience with either switch. Consequently, both switches will result in comparable performance and feedback during typing or gaming sessions, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Outemu Red comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is characterized by a subtle and refined auditory feedback during actuation, which can be satisfying for users who appreciate a tactile response without overly loud noise. This sound profile is complemented by their design, making them distinct yet not intrusive in a shared workspace. In contrast, the Outemu Red linear switch produces a much quieter operation, as linear switches are known for their lack of tactile bump and audible click, resulting in a smoother key press and a nearly silent experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound output of both switches can be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard's build quality and the type of keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch provides a distinct tactile bump that is medium in strength, offering users a clear point of actuation that enhances typing accuracy without requiring excessive force. This tactile feedback is often appreciated by typists and gamers alike, as it helps to reduce typing errors. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch features a smooth and consistent key press without any tactile bump, allowing for rapid key activation. Many users find this linear feel preferable for fast-paced gaming, where rapid key presses are beneficial. The absence of any tactile feedback can be less satisfying for those who prefer a more engaged typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch provide unique characteristics catering to different preferences. If sound and feel are important aspects for you, the choice between a tactile bump and a linear smoothness will determine your overall typing experience. The MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile sound and feedback, while the Outemu Red delivers a quieter, smoother operation. Ultimately, your choice will hinge upon your specific needs as a typist or gamer, with each switch providing advantages in different contexts.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile response while you type, giving you a satisfying feedback with each keystroke, the MX Purple RGB is an excellent choice. Its tactile bump provides a refined experience, making it great for both typing and gaming where you might appreciate a bit more feedback on your presses. However, if you prefer a smoother keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Red linear switch would be more suitable. With a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, it allows for rapid key presses without the distraction of tactile bumps, making it an ideal option for fast-paced gaming. In essence, choose the MX Purple RGB if you value a tactile feel and auditory engagement, while opting for the Outemu Red if you want a fluid, uninterrupted typing experience with a focus on speed.
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