Everglide Oreo vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Oreo, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, offer unique experiences for typing enthusiasts. The Oreo is best known for its delectable tactile bump at the top, providing a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Blue switch is recognized for its distinct clicky feedback, ideal for those who enjoy an audible typing experience. While the Oreo offers a subtle and mellow sound profile, the Blue switch produces a more pronounced clicking sound 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Oreo and the Outemu Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the light to shine through. However, the Oreo diverges in its choice of polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, while the Blue opts for a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The difference in bottom housing material affects the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the bottom housing material.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Everglide Oreo and the Outemu Blue feature clear housings, a common characteristic of switches utilizing polycarbonate. This feature allows for a more visually appealing switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the Everglide Oreo's choice to also use polycarbonate for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
Overall, while both the Everglide Oreo and the Outemu Blue share similar characteristics in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing, their divergence in bottom housing material leads to variations in sound profiles. The Oreo's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly suitable for those who prioritize sound clarity. On the other hand, the Blue's use of a nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Oreo switch is also lighter at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue switch is unavailable. The Oreo tactile switch provides a medium-light typing experience, whereas the Blue clicky switch offers a slightly heavier feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out force, catering to different preferences for typing. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Oreo switch, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This distance is important in determining the overall feel and responsiveness of a switch. The travel distance of 4 mm on both switches ensures that they provide a satisfying tactile feedback and response. Therefore, whether you choose the Oreo or the Blue switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. This distinctive acoustic signature adds a touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not specified, but it is important to remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch gives users an accented and stepped tactile sensation. This means that the switch offers a medium level of tactility that is not too overwhelming but still noticeable, along with a distinct two-stage keystroke feel. The Outemu Blue clicky switch's feel is not provided, but it is worth noting that tactile switches like the Oreo can provide a satisfying typing experience with just the right amount of feedback.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. While the Oreo provides a chirpy sound and an accented, stepped tactility, the Blue's sound and feel characteristics are unknown. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Whether you opt for the Oreo or the Blue, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium-light tactility with a comfortable typing sensation and a subtle, mellow sound profile, the Oreo switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Blue switches might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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