Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Phoenix stand out as popular options, each offering a unique typing experience. 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 Phoenix is a clicky switch distinguished by its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a distinctive typing experience with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Phoenix is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Phoenix, one can see a clear distinction in the type of sound profile each switch produces. The MX Red's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, with its stiffer plastic creating a more clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in sound can greatly affect the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific audio feedback.
Additionally, the aesthetic aspect of the housing materials also differs between the MX Red and the Outemu Phoenix. The translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix is ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as the material allows for better light dispersion and a visually appealing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the MX Red does not offer the same level of transparency, providing a more classic and opaque look. This difference in design can influence users' preferences based on their visual preferences for their keyboards.
Furthermore, the impact of the housing material extends beyond just the sound and visual aspects of the switches. The combination of the top and bottom housings can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall performance of the switch is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it's clear that they offer different experiences. The Cherry MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type quickly and for extended periods without fatigue. However, the MX Red does not have a specified bottom out force, so the overall typing experience may vary. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. While the actuation force of the Phoenix is not specified, the heavier bottom out force indicates a more solid typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a heavier feel for a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the MX Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Phoenix's 3.3 mm. This means that the MX Red will require a slightly deeper press to actuate compared to the Phoenix. Gamers who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Phoenix due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may prefer the MX Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and actuation.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 terms of sound, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which offers a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch produces a unique crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The difference in sound between the two switches lies in the nature of their mechanisms, with the MX Red providing a solid and thocky sound, while the Phoenix offers a more distinctive and crispy click sound. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured typing experience, which may provide some users with a tactile sensation and feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch offers a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and comfortable key travel. The difference in feel between these two switches comes down to the surface finish of the switch components, with the MX Red featuring a textured finish for added tactile sensation, while the Phoenix has a polished finish for a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, when comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that they offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The MX Red provides a deep and slightly heftier sound with a textured feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix offers a unique clicky sound with a polished feel, appealing to users seeking a crisp and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on personal preference, offering a range of options to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with a satisfying auditory depth, the MX Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique click mechanism with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, the Phoenix switch could be the ideal option. Consider the bottom out force, sound characteristics, and tactile feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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