Outemu Black vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black is known for its smooth and consistent key presses, making it ideal for those who prefer a more traditional linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience with a bouncy feel thanks to its lengthened single-stage spring. The Tourmaline Blue is also praised for its balance of standard spring weight, appealing to a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and specific typing needs; 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 Tourmaline Blue Linear

$3.10 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial if RGB lighting will be utilized with the switches. However, the housing materials diverge when it comes to the bottom housing, with the Black utilizing nylon while the Tourmaline Blue sticks to polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Black provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile.

Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more defined and resonant sound, especially when combined with clear housings that are ideal for RGB lighting setups. The nylon bottom housing of the Black absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder typing experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue complements the sharper sound profile of its top housing. Overall, users can expect a mix of sharpness and depth in the sound produced by these switches.

By having different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch, users can experience a combination of qualities when typing. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a larger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystrokes. On the other hand, the top housing material will be more prominent in the sound produced when releasing a key. This split of housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both materials to create a well-rounded sound profile.

Weight

The Outemu Black linear switch is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, while the Tourmaline Blue needs 59 grams to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out. This means that the Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, which may be preferred by some users looking for a stronger push feel. The Tourmaline Blue switch, on the other hand, offers a slightly lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience with a similar feel, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Black linear switch is known for its neutrality in sound, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a more immersive typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Black switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue switch is described as buttery, easy-to-press, and mild, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation with a light actuation force. Overall, while the Black and Tourmaline Blue switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a switch with no specific standout features, then the Outemu Black may be the suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, deep and thocky sound profile, and a smooth, buttery feel with easy-to-press actuation, then the Everglide Tourmaline Blue would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more