Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent White mechanical keyboard switches, both switches belong to the linear switch category, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke experience. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast response time and low spring resistance, making it a top choice for gamers seeking quick input feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White offers a quieter typing experience, making it a suitable option for those who value a more discreet keyboard operation. While the MX Speed Silver is lauded for its textured, thocky feel and low-pitched sound profile, the Silent White switch does not have any particular standout features mentioned. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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 Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent White, one notable difference is the material used for the top housing. The MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and typing experience of the switches.
On the other hand, both the MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent White switches make use of nylon for the bottom housing. This material is appreciated for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing. This commonality in housing material demonstrates how certain characteristics can be maintained across different switches, even when other housing components differ.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent White ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the MX Speed Silver offers a duller and rounder sound with its nylon top housing, the Silent White provides a crisper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound absorption. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, clearer sound, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Outemu Silent White switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown, while the Silent White switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams. The MX Speed Silver would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, offering a variety of options for users depending on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly longer than the Outemu Silent White linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum, with the MX Speed Silver being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver, while those who prefer a more tactile feel may lean towards the Outemu Silent White. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
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 White 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 linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, offering a unique tactile experience with noticeable friction when pressed. The feel of the Outemu Silent White switch is not specified.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers seeking a rapid response time with its low spring resistance and linear action. It provides a thocky sound profile and a textured feel for a tactile typing experience. While the qualities of the Outemu Silent White switch remain unknown, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and intended use when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of response time and typing performance, but the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize speed and response time, especially in intense gaming situations where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver is the way to go with its instant triggering and low spring resistance. On the other hand, if you value a medium bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent White switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your specific needs and preferences, so make sure to weigh the factors that are most important to you before making a decision.
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