Outemu Black vs. Everglide Rice Pudding

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Black and Everglide Rice Pudding switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Outemu Black, a linear switch, provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, ideal for gamers and typists alike who favor rapid, quiet keypresses without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch stands out for its unique hall effect mechanism, delivering a satisfying sound with each press while ensuring a smooth typing experience. Known for their balance and compatibility with Wooting’s advanced keyboards, these switches are perfect for enthusiasts who seek both performance and versatility. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to whether you prefer the straightforward, silent nature of linear switches or the richer auditory and tactile feedback offered by hall effect designs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

Everglide Rice Pudding Hall Effect

$3.10 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Black and Everglide Rice Pudding switches share significant similarities in their top housing materials, as both are constructed from polycarbonate. This choice in housing material is instrumental in shaping the sound profile of the switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sound that is sharper and crisper, ideal for those who appreciate a clear auditory feedback from their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an excellent option for switches that utilize RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination to shine through and enhance the aesthetic appeal. In this regard, users can expect similar sonic results from both switches when it comes to the top housing, as the properties of polycarbonate yield a consistent sound experience.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Outemu Black and Everglide Rice Pudding differ only slightly in their impact on sound, as both are made from nylon. This classic switch material is characterized by its softer plastic composition, which tends to absorb and dampen sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to that produced by stiffer materials. The use of nylon in the bottom housing means that when users type on these switches, they experience a rounder and less piercing sound, which complements the higher-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while the top housings create sharp, clear sounds during key release, the nylon bottoms contribute to a warmer sound when the keys are bottomed out.

Ultimately, the combination of materials used in the Outemu Black and Everglide Rice Pudding switches provides a harmonious balance of sound aesthetics. The crisper notes from the polycarbonate top are effectively paired with the rounder timbre produced by the nylon bottom, contributing to a complete auditory experience when typing. While the switches may share the same materials in their top housing, the unique properties of their respective bottom housings create a nuanced sound profile that distinguishes them in usage. Users may find that, despite the contrasts, they can achieve a desirable sound quality from each switch, making both models appealing to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking variety without sacrificing performance.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, there is a significant difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier switch that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is much lighter, with an actuation force of just 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Rice Pudding switch requires less effort to activate, making it more suitable for lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue is a concern. Thus, for those who prefer a lighter touch and less strain, the Rice Pudding is the better choice, while those who enjoy a firmer feel will likely favor the heavier Outemu Black. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference, balancing the demand for a lighter touch against the desire for a more robust keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, the Outemu Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Rice Pudding has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference makes the Everglide Rice Pudding the more responsive option, ideal for gamers seeking quicker key presses and faster response times. Conversely, the Outemu Black, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial feel, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a deeper tactile feedback while typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding depth versus responsiveness — if you favor a shorter, snappier experience, the Rice Pudding is the better choice; if you prefer a more pronounced key press, the Outemu Black would be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a well-defined auditory characteristic noted, making it somewhat neutral in this regard. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is celebrated for producing a deep sound that enhances the overall typing experience. The combination of a smooth operation with its rich auditory feedback provides an appealing acoustic quality that can add to the enjoyment of typing. However, keep in mind that the perceived sound of any switch can also be influenced by the type of keyboard it is mounted on and the choice of keycaps, so individual experiences may vary.

Regarding feel, the Outemu Black switch does not have specific details highlighted, suggesting that it might have a more generic linear feel without standout features. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch is acclaimed for offering a smooth operation that allows for a satisfying and precise typing experience. This smoothness can lead to a sense of fluidity when typing, making it an excellent option for users who appreciate a seamless keypress.

In summary, while the Outemu Black linear switch might be considered more of a blank slate in terms of sound and feel, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch stands out with its richer auditory feedback and satisfying smoothness. This combination makes the Rice Pudding an appealing choice for keyboard enthusiasts who seek a distinctive and pleasurable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, where the Rice Pudding clearly offers more in both aspects.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch largely depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a heavier key press that can provide a more deliberate typing experience, the Outemu Black with its 82 grams of bottom-out force may be your best option; it's suitable for those who type with a firm hand and enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback, albeit without the specific sound profile or notable features that other switches might offer. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter switch that allows for quicker actuation and a smoother typing experience, the Everglide Rice Pudding, with its more forgiving 48 grams of force, would be ideal. Its satisfying sound profile and compatibility with advanced keyboards like Wooting's make it an excellent choice for gamers or those who type for extended periods, seeking comfort and responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal comfort, typing style, and the primary activities you'll be using your keyboard for, whether that’s gaming, professional work, or casual typing.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Rice Pudding Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more