Outemu Black vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Gold 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 Outemu Black and Outemu Gold. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, recognized for its tactile feedback and audible click sound with each press. If you prefer a quieter typing experience and a more seamless keystroke, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy the satisfying click sound and tactile feedback while typing, the Outemu Gold could be the preferred option. 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and Outemu Gold switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, when it comes to their bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of these materials impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be felt more prominently when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon for a unique sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Black and Outemu Gold switches boils down to personal preference in sound profile. The Black's sharper and crisper sound profile may appeal to those who prefer a more distinct typing experience, while the Gold's deeper and fuller sound profile may be favored by those looking for a softer sound. Both switches offer a combination of the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon, creating a balance between clarity and depth in sound that caters to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to individual typing preferences and the desired sound profile.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 82 grams to bottom out, while the Gold only needs 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Gold switch offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. While both switches offer the same travel distance, they provide different typing experiences due to their unique characteristics. The Outemu Black linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible click, making it ideal for fast and precise typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch provides a tactile bump and audible click with each keystroke, enhancing the typing experience with satisfying feedback. While the travel distance remains the same, the typing experience with these switches will differ based on personal preference for linear or clicky switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Black and Gold.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is characterized by its distinctive click sound with each key press, adding an element of feedback and satisfaction to typing. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible clicks, resulting in a straightforward and uninterrupted typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Gold clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click with each key press, giving typists a sense of confirmation and precision as they type. This added tactile feedback can be beneficial for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
Considering the information provided, it is clear that the Outemu Black and Gold switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Black switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet and linear typing experience, while the Outemu Gold switch is suited for individuals who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier keypress with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black switch is a good choice for you. This switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience without any audible click. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter keypress with a bottom out force of 60 grams and appreciate a satisfying click sound, the Outemu Gold switch would be more suitable for you. This switch provides a tactile feel and audible feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize keypress weight and smoothness (Outemu Black) or keypress lightness and tactile feedback (Outemu Gold).
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