Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is a linear switch renowned for its rapid response and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers looking for quick and instant key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound with each key press. While the Speed Silver offers a smooth and fast typing experience, the Blue provides a satisfying tactile sensation with each keystroke. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue, there are some key differences to consider. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. The aesthetic aspect also differs, with the clear polycarbonate housing being more suitable for RGB lighting. Despite these variances, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of this classic housing material.
The different housing materials of the MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue also contribute to the tactile feel of the switches. The nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver impacts the sound when a key is released, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue affects the sound during keypress. Additionally, the bottom housing, which is nylon for both switches, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. This highlights how the choice of top and bottom housing materials can affect various aspects of the overall typing experience, from sound to tactile feedback.
Overall, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Blue each have their own unique characteristics and influences on the typing experience. The softer nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Blue produces a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. It is interesting to see how the choice of housing materials can impact not only the sound but also the tactile feel of a mechanical switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is lighter with an actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Blue switch's 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, meaning that it is unclear how much force is required to fully press the keys all the way down. The lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Outemu Blue switch would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of actuation force, users can expect a quicker keystroke response from the MX Speed Silver due to its lighter force, while the Outemu Blue switch would require a bit more force to trigger a key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Blue switch. The MX Speed Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance allows for quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver offering speed and efficiency, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu Blue switch providing a more substantial typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Outemu Blue 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 MX Speed Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not provided in the information. When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver offers a textured sensation when pressed, potentially providing users with a unique typing experience due to the noticeable friction. Unfortunately, the information does not provide details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Blue switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Speed Silver is praised for its thocky sound and textured feel, the specifics for the Outemu Blue switch in these areas are unknown. Both switches cater to different preferences and usage scenarios, with the MX Speed Silver being favored by gamers for its rapid response and low spring resistance, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch may appeal to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with audible feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. If sound or feel are not critical factors in the decision-making process, users can expect similar performance results from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should choose the MX Speed Silver if you prioritize speed and instant response, especially for gaming where every millisecond counts. The MX Speed Silver's linear action and low spring resistance make it ideal for quick, precise movements. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be more suitable for you. The audible click sound and tactile feedback can provide a satisfying typing experience, especially for those who enjoy the feeling of each key press. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific use case for your keyboard.
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