Outemu Black vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and Outemu Silent White offer different experiences for users. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White is also a linear switch but is designed to reduce noise levels significantly compared to other switches. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Silent White may be the better choice for you. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Outemu Silent White switches are quite similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the key point of difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Black using a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing but with the softer plastic absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the Outemu Black and the Outemu Silent White both benefit from the polycarbonate top housing, offering a similar sharper and crisper sound experience when typing. This quality is particularly advantageous for users who prefer a more distinct sound while using their mechanical keyboard. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material, with the Black switch providing a deeper sound due to the nylon bottom housing, while the Silent White produces a rounder sound with the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This contrast allows users to choose between a more resonant sound with the Black or a softer, quieter typing experience with the Silent White.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Black and the Outemu Silent White housing materials will ultimately depend on the user's preference for sound profile. Both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound, but the nylon bottom housing adds a layer of depth to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound with the Black or a softer, rounder sound with the Silent White, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a higher bottom out force of 82 grams, making it the heavier of the two switches. In comparison, the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 60 grams, making it the lighter option. The Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavy forces, while the Silent White switch offers a lighter touch that may be preferable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have different weight characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is evident that the Outemu Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent White. The 4.0mm distance of the Black switch is more traditional and provides a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Silent White switch is ideal for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Silent White.
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 silence, offering a quiet typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch is also designed to reduce noise, providing a similar silent typing experience. Both switches are ideal for environments where minimal noise is preferred, such as in an office setting or at home during late hours.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black switch is favored for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation. The Silent White switch offers a similar smooth typing experience, allowing for comfortable and efficient typing sessions. These switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback without the audible click, suiting users who appreciate a quieter typing experience without compromising on performance.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Black and Silent White linear switches offer a quiet and smooth typing experience, making them popular choices among users who value a noise-free environment. While the sound and feel may vary slightly between the two switches, ultimately, users can expect similarly satisfying results in terms of typing comfort and overall performance. Consider your personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between these switches to find the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier keystroke with a bottom out force of 82 grams and are not concerned about sound or tactility, the Outemu Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 60 grams and are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent White may be more suitable. Consider how you like your keyboard to feel and sound when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique advantages, so choose the one that best fits your typing needs.
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