Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Silent Green mechanical keyboard switches, one can highlight some key differences. The Cherry MX Red is 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 Silent Green switch does not have a specific standout feature, but it is still a linear switch. The Cherry MX Red is often preferred by those who enjoy a 'Thocky', low-pitched, and textured typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silent Green switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile and feel. The MX Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which absorbs sound to create a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Green features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, with nylon providing a rounder sound and polycarbonate offering a crisper sound.
While both the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silent Green switches share similarities in their use of nylon and polycarbonate materials, the different properties of each housing affect the overall typing experience. The nylon top housing of the MX Red absorbs more sound, producing a duller sound profile that some may prefer for its deeper tone. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Green creates a more sharp and crisp sound, which may be favored by those looking for a brighter typing experience. These contrasting sound profiles highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
The division of housing materials in switches like the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silent Green demonstrates how each component can influence different aspects of typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile and feel. Whether opting for the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the MX Red or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Silent Green, the choice of housing material ultimately contributes to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cherry MX Red switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Outemu Silent Green switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Cherry MX Red switch, allowing for longer periods of typing or gaming without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Green switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results when using either one. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
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 Silent 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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, the MX Red is favored for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile. The MX Red switch provides a robust typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch's sound profile is currently unknown, making it difficult to directly compare in terms of sound. In relation to feel, the MX Red switch is noted for its textured feeling, which may provide some users with a tactile sensation when typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the Silent Green switch is also unknown at this time. Overall, while the sound and feel of the two switches may differ, it is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction when choosing between the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silent Green switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a linear typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, you should choose the Cherry MX Red if you prefer a slightly heftier typing feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force of 60 grams in a linear switch, the Outemu Silent Green would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Experimenting with both switches can help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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