Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Tom. 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 Tom is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Tom does not have any defined characteristics listed. Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference, as the MX Red may be preferred for its linear feel and satisfying sound while the Tom may be chosen for its tactile feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Red and Outemu Tom switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which means users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for the absorption of sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This duller and rounder sound quality contributes to a more comfortable typing experience for users of both switches. While the bottom housing may not be visible during use, its impact on the sound profile cannot be understated, making nylon a popular choice for switch manufacturers.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Tom switches differ, with the MX Red featuring a nylon top housing and the Tom utilizing polycarbonate. This contrast in materials leads to distinct sound profiles when typing. The MX Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Tom's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the typing experience.
In essence, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Tom switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials - nylon for the MX Red and polycarbonate for the Tom - results in distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound profile with the MX Red or a sharper and crisper sound with the Outemu Tom, each switch offers unique qualities that cater to individual preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Tom is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to compare them in that aspect. The MX Red's lighter actuation force may be preferred by those who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, as it requires less effort to press down. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Tom switch may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced push feel for a more robust typing experience. In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the two switches differ, the bottom out forces being unknown means that the typing experience for both switches could potentially yield similar results, depending on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The MX Red's longer travel distance may provide a more traditional and deep key press feel, ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced and deliberate key press. On the other hand, the Tom's shorter travel distance offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide distinct benefits depending on personal preference, with the MX Red offering a longer travel distance and the Tom providing a shorter distance for optimal typing performance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Tom 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
The Cherry MX Red switch is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch's sound profile and feel are unknown. When considering the feel of the switches, the MX Red is described as textured, providing a tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a more engaging typing experience. However, without information on the Tom switch's tactile feel, it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its satisfying auditory depth and textured feel, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks information on sound and feel. For those looking for a switch with a deeper sound and slightly heftier feel, the Cherry MX Red is a reliable choice. If one prefers a similar experience, the MX Red switch would be the recommended option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Red linear switch or the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should opt for the MX Red if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile for a robust typing experience. The MX Red switch offers responsiveness and a satisfying auditory depth, making it a popular choice for many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with specific sound and feel preferences, the Outemu Tom switch may not be the best fit based on the limited information available. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the factors that are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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