Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu Blue and Outemu Red switches. The Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch that is best known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound, making it a popular choice for typists who enjoy the clicky sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback or audible click, making it a suitable choice for gamers who prefer a quieter keyboard experience. Each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to different 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
50g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Outemu Red switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff properties. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through. The differences in sound between the two switches will likely be minimal when it comes to the top housing, as they both share this common material.
However, the distinction between the two switches lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Blue features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Red also features a nylon bottom housing with similar qualities. This suggests that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Red switches are the same, their differences primarily stem from the bottom housing material. The Blue's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Red's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. The split between the qualities each housing material brings allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, with the top and bottom housings each contributing to the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch's 46 grams, making the Blue switch slightly heavier. However, the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown, while the Red switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of weight, the Blue switch may provide a more tactile typing experience with a higher actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Red switch with a lower actuation force and higher bottom out force might be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will feel identical. In this case, the travel distance of both switches is equal, resulting in similar results in terms of keypress experience. This similarity allows users to have a consistent typing experience regardless of whether they are using the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the Outemu Red linear switch.
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 Blue and Red.
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 Blue clicky switch is known for its satisfying click sound, making it popular among typists who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, providing a quiet typing experience compared to the clicky Blue switch. The sound produced by both switches will vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue switch offers tactile feedback with a noticeable bump during actuation, which can help typists feel when a key press has been registered. Conversely, the Outemu Red switch provides a linear feel without any tactile bump, allowing typists to have a consistent typing experience without any distractions. Both switches offer different tactile experiences to cater to individual preferences.
Overall, if you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience without any audible feedback, the Outemu Red switch would be more ideal. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between these two switches to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should choose the Blue if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with an audible click sound. This switch is best suited for those who enjoy a satisfyingly clicky and responsive feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, opt for the Red switch if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience without the audible click. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a linear and consistent feel while typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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