Outemu Black vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may have come across the Outemu Black and Outemu Green switches. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and satisfying click sound with each press. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. The Black switch is ideal for those who prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Green switch is perfect for users who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
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 main difference between the Outemu Black and Green switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Black switch features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Green switch also has a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
In terms of the top housing material, both the Outemu Black and Green switches use polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This material is especially useful if RGB lighting is a factor, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, both the Black and Green switches will offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, while the bottom housing material of the Outemu Black and Green switches differs, their top housing material remains the same. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with differences mainly in the bottom-out sound and feel. The choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile desired, as the nylon bottom housing of the switches will have a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 65 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Outemu Black has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Outemu Green has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 80 grams. This makes the Outemu Black switch slightly heavier overall compared to the Outemu Green switch. In terms of weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Green switch, as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Black switch due to its heavier bottom out force, providing a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the weight of a switch can impact typing comfort and efficiency, so choosing between the Outemu Black and Outemu Green switch would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Both switches provide a consistent feel and performance when pressed down due to their identical travel distances. This means that whether you choose the Black or the Green switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which one you choose.
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 Green.
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 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 Green clicky switch is well-known for its distinct clicking sound with each key press, providing auditory feedback that some users find satisfying. The sound produced by both switches can be influenced by the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch offers a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, allowing for a consistent typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Green clicky switch provides a tactile bump and audible click that gives users a sense of assurance that each key press has been registered. The tactile feedback of the Green switch can enhance typing accuracy for those who rely on physical feedback while typing.
Overall, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quiet typing experience with no tactile feedback, the Black switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy the audible click and tactile bump for enhanced typing feedback, the Green switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, you should consider your preferred typing experience. If you value a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Outemu Black switch is a better choice with its linear feel and lack of audible click. However, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and satisfying click sound while typing, the Outemu Green switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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