Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer two 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 Spring Breeze is a clicky switch with a crisp tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the Spring Breeze does not have any specific categorization. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound, the Cherry MX Red may be the right 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
Both the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Spring Breeze switches feature nylon housing materials for both the top and bottom components. This means that typing on switches utilizing these materials will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounded and muffled sound when typing on these switches. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, the specific design and construction of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Spring Breeze switches may result in different typing experiences. The distribution of these nylon housings within the switches can impact the overall sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. These subtle differences in housing design may lead to variations in typing sound and tactile feedback between the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Spring Breeze switches.
Ultimately, the use of nylon housing in both the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Spring Breeze switches highlights a dedication to providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The choice of nylon allows for sound absorption and a muted, deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the specific design and distribution of the nylon housings within the switches may result in some differences, users can expect a consistent level of sound and tactile feedback when using either the Cherry MX Red or Outemu Spring Breeze switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, one can see distinct differences. The MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentle touch. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, providing a slightly more tactile typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Red has an unknown value, while the Spring Breeze boasts a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, giving users a more substantial feel when fully pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cherry MX Red switch, while individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Outemu Spring Breeze switch for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a quick and responsive keystroke, which can be beneficial for typing or gaming. Both switches provide a smooth and consistent actuation, but the Cherry MX Red is known for its linear feel, while the Outemu Spring Breeze offers a clicky feedback with an audible sound upon actuation. Overall, whether choosing the Cherry MX Red or the Outemu Spring Breeze, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a consistent travel distance.
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 Spring Breeze 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 offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to compare. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Red is noted for its slightly textured feel, which adds a tactile element to the typing experience. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze switch is unknown, making it hard to provide a direct comparison. However, it's important to consider that the feel of a switch is a personal preference, with some users preferring a smoother typing experience while others enjoy a bit of texture.
Overall, if you enjoy a slightly textured feel and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, the Cherry MX Red linear switch may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a different tactile feel and sound, exploring the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch could be worth considering. Keep in mind that ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose a Cherry MX Red linear switch or an Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother, more linear typing experience with a slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter, clicky switch with a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a satisfying auditory feedback, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch could be the right fit. Be sure to consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch will enhance your typing experience the most. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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