Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Silver, both linear switches, it is important to note the differences in their characteristics. The MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver does not have a specific attribute it is best known for. The MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', while the Silver has no specific categories. If you are looking for a switch with a satisfying tactile feel and deep sound, the MX Red may be the better choice for you. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silver switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The MX Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Silver utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound thanks to the stiffness of the material. While both switches offer a different sound profile, they both excel in providing a pleasant typing experience with their unique housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silver switches have different visual appeals based on their housing materials. The transparent polycarbonate top housing of the Silver switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a colorful touch to the keyboard. In contrast, the solid nylon housing of the MX Red switch offers a more classic and understated look. Both housing materials have their own charm, catering to different preferences in terms of appearance. However, if RGB lighting is a priority, the polycarbonate housing of the Silver switch may be more appealing.
While the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Silver switches differ in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics, they both provide a satisfying typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a pleasant typing sound. Additionally, the unique qualities of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Silver switch add a crisp and resonant sound when releasing a key. Overall, both housing materials offer distinct advantages, catering to different preferences in terms of sound, feel, and visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Outemu Silver linear switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the Cherry MX Red has no specified bottom out force, while the Outemu Silver has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a slightly heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. The Cherry MX Red may be favored for its lighter weight, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Outemu Silver may appeal to those who prefer a heavier push for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you can expect a similar level of key travel from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of both switches allows for quick and precise keystrokes, making them popular choices for gamers and typists alike. Overall, whether using the Cherry MX Red or the Outemu Silver, you can count on a consistent and satisfying key travel experience.
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 Silver 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 Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Silver switch's sound profile is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which can provide a unique tactile feedback during typing. This texture may create a slightly different typing experience compared to smoother switches, offering users a distinct feel when pressing down keys. Information on the Outemu Silver switch's feel is not provided, thus making it challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific information on its sound and feel characteristics. As a result, it is difficult to provide a direct comparison between the two switches. However, with both switches being linear in operation, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump. Ultimately, personal preference and the specific requirements of the user will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for their typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should consider your preference for a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile. If you value a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth, the Cherry MX Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a different typing experience, the Outemu Silver linear switch could be the right fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for feel and sound when typing.
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