Outemu Black vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black, a linear switch, to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, another linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Outemu Black is best known for its straightforward linear feel, with no tactile bump or audible click. It is categorized as a standard linear switch. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It is categorized as a switch with a subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that are intended for use with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a vibrant lighting effect. Both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between these two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Outemu Black features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. In this aspect, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with a focus on a fuller sound profile.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to recognize the role of the top and bottom housings in sound production. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the Outemu Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear may differ in their bottom housing material, the overall typing experience and sound profile may remain relatively consistent due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housing.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Black switch requires 82 grams to fully press the key, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch only requires 62 grams. This means that the Outemu Black switch is heavier both in actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may be the preferred choice, as it requires less force to bottom out. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Black switch may be the better option. Ultimately, individual preferences for typing feel and weight will determine which switch is best suited for each user's needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Black switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Both switches provide different experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The Outemu Black 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is best known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for its subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed that is whisper-quiet on the way up and maintains a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch provides a more subtle and innovative sound signature compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks a specific description of its typing feel, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for providing a silky smooth typing experience that is not over-polished. This switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users. It is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, indicating that it strikes a good balance between responsiveness, smoothness, and overall typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black switch provides a neutral sound profile and lacks a specific description of its feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound with a gentle and approachable typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches can provide quality typing experiences, so you can expect similar results from either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned about noise levels, the Outemu Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a lighter bottom out force and a semi-silent typing experience with a smooth and gentle feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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