Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Grey 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 Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Grey. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch known for its rapid response, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast reaction times. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey offers a quiet and tactile typing experience, perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent switch for everyday use. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Grey, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Grey utilizes a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile with a clearer and resonant tone. The aesthetic difference is also notable, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey allowing for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Grey offer unique sound profiles based on their distinct properties. The nylon housing of the MX Speed Silver creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey produces a more vibrant and crisp sound. Additionally, the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel for the user.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Grey will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and aesthetic. While both switches offer high-quality materials in their housing, the MX Speed Silver provides a more muffled and fuller sound, while the Silent Grey delivers a sharper and clearer tone. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbent sound or a crisper, resonant sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to users. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. In contrast, the Silent Grey has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the MX Speed Silver lacks a specified bottom out force, while the Silent Grey requires a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the MX Speed Silver, while those seeking a more robust feel may lean towards the Silent Grey. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we can see that the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent Grey's 4 mm. This means that the MX Speed Silver will require less distance to actuate, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a slightly longer travel distance, which some may find more comfortable for typing or prefer for the depth it provides. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference - the MX Speed Silver for its shorter travel distance and the Silent Grey for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing and gaming needs.
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 Silent Grey 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 Speed Silver switch is known for its rapid response and full height, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. It produces a thocky, low-pitched sound when pressed, creating a satisfying auditory experience during intense gaming sessions. The Outemu Silent Grey switch, on the other hand, offers a quiet and tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, ideal for those who prioritize a silent environment without sacrificing tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is textured, providing a unique tactile sensation that some users may prefer for added feedback during fast-paced gaming. The Outemu Silent Grey switch's feel is currently unknown, but it likely offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience thanks to its tactile design. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Silent Grey switches each bring their own strengths to the table. The MX Speed Silver excels in providing rapid response and a thocky, low-pitched sound, making it a top choice for gamers seeking speed and satisfaction. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Grey switch prioritizes a quiet and tactile typing experience, appealing to users who value a silent environment coupled with tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value speed and responsiveness, especially for gaming where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Silent Grey switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. By understanding the unique characteristics of each switch, you can make an informed choice that enhances your overall typing or gaming experience.
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