Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent 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 Silent Red and the Outemu Phoenix offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, is favored for its quiet operation, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments while still providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism that delivers a crisp and distinctive typing feel. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that cater to varying preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The Cherry MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of the stiffer plastic material. If the housings are different, the switch will exhibit a combination of these characteristics, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Phoenix utilize different housing materials to achieve specific sound profiles. While the MX Silent Red's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of mechanical switches such as the Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Phoenix. Whether using nylon or polycarbonate, each material brings its own set of characteristics to the switch, influencing aspects such as sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the Outemu Phoenix delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods of time without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Phoenix clicky switch has an unknown actuation force, which may indicate a heavier touch required to register a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Phoenix switch is 62 grams, which is considered medium and may provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the MX Silent Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users favoring the lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red for long typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Phoenix clicky switch for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Silent Red has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Phoenix's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, with the difference between them being relatively minimal. However, for those looking for a slightly quicker response time, the Phoenix switch with its shorter travel distance may be preferred. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more depth and tactility in their key presses may lean towards the MX Silent Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
The Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This switch maintains the slightly heavier feel of the MX Red while operating silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch features a crunchy sound that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, thanks to its unique under-skirt click mechanism. In terms of feel, the MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, offering a tactile experience with noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while the MX Silent Red and Outemu Phoenix switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches deliver satisfying and unique typing experiences suitable for different preferences. Whether opting for the quiet and textured feel of the MX Silent Red or the crunchy and polished experience of the Outemu Phoenix, users can expect quality performance and reliability from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. If you require a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments, the MX Silent Red is the way to go. Its muted, thocky sound profile and textured feel make it a great choice for those who want to minimize noise while still enjoying a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique, clicky sound profile with a medium bottom out force, the Phoenix switch is a great option. Its crunchy sound and polished feel provide a distinct typing experience that is sure to stand out. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs.
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