Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Green offer distinct typing experiences. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch that provides a more tactile and audible typing experience. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Green does not have specific categorizations. Both switches have their own unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Green switches, the most notable difference lies in the top housing. The MX Red utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the Green switch opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of housing material significantly impacts the overall sound experience and can cater to different preferences based on the desired sound profile.
On the other hand, both the MX Red and Outemu Green switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This means that despite the differences in top housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when bottoming out keys. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that appeals to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of a switch, it's essential to consider how each housing affects the overall typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing qualities means that the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, the choice of housing material in a switch can enhance the overall typing experience and cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that they differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cherry MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Outemu Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Outemu Green is 80 grams, which indicates a substantial amount of force needed to fully depress the key. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences; the Cherry MX Red provides a lighter touch ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Outemu Green offers a more robust and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the MX Red providing a linear feel and the Green offering a satisfying clicky feedback. Despite the differences in their operational mechanisms, the travel distance of these switches remains consistent, allowing for a similar typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Outemu Green 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
In the realm of sound, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is often praised for its thocky and low-pitched qualities, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound profile is unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. It is important to consider that the sound produced by a switch can differ based on various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the keys, the Cherry MX Red switch is noted for its textured nature, offering a tactile feedback that some users appreciate for its distinct feel during typing. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch, making it challenging to contrast it with the Cherry MX Red in this aspect. Preferences for switch texture can vary from user to user, with some favoring a smoother typing experience while others enjoy a bit of friction.
Overall, without detailed information on the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is challenging to directly compare it to the Cherry MX Red linear switch in these aspects. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall into different categories (linear vs. clicky), and as a result, they offer distinct typing experiences. If you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier feel and deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a distinct audible feedback, the Outemu Green switch could be worth considering. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand may be the best way to determine which one suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, you may want to choose the Cherry MX Red. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a clicky sound with tactile feedback, the Outemu Green switch may be the better option for you. Consider your typing habits, preferences, and the environments in which you'll be using the keyboard to make the best choice for your needs. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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