Outemu Gold vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch. The Gold switch is recognized for its tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Silent White switch offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, perfect for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 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 Outemu Gold and Outemu Silent White switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarity in top housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect a similar sound profile in terms of sharpness and clarity.
In contrast, the Outemu Gold features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits of a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The consistency of using nylon for the bottom housing in both switches highlights a shared emphasis on delivering a more satisfying typing experience through sound.
The division of housing materials in switches affects different aspects of typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as depth and fullness of sound, are more noticeable during key presses and bottom-out actions. In contrast, the impact of the top housing, like sharpness and crispness of sound, is more apparent when keys are released. By understanding how the top and bottom housing materials interact with key presses, users can appreciate the nuanced differences in sound profiles between switches like the Outemu Gold and Outemu Silent White.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. The actuation force of 45 grams is relatively light, allowing for a smooth typing experience and prolonged use without causing fatigue, ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, the slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams provides a more substantial typing feel, catering to those who prefer a bit of resistance for a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between lightness and heaviness, providing a comfortable typing experience while still offering a satisfying key press.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Silent White switch is shorter compared to the Gold switch. The Gold switch offers a traditional 4 mm travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. On the other hand, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Silent White switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is known for its loud, clicky sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. The Gold switch has a tactile bump and audible click, offering a tactile feedback that is not present in the Silent White switch, which provides a smooth and consistent keystroke.
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch produces a distinct clicky sound with each key press, adding a touch of nostalgia for typists who enjoy the audible feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Silent White linear switch offers a silent operation, making it a suitable choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
In terms of feel, the Gold switch provides a tactile bump and audible click, giving typists a tangible response with each key press. On the other hand, the Silent White switch offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, providing a consistent and linear feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
While the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference. If you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of the Gold switch, it may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and smooth keystroke, the Silent White switch might be more suitable. Keep in mind that factors such as keycaps and keyboard housing can also influence the overall typing experience, so experimenting with different combinations can help you find the perfect match for your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, you will want to consider the following factors. If you prioritize a tactile and audible typing experience, then the Outemu Gold switch with its clicky sound and tactile feedback would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in a quiet environment or prefer a smoother and more subtle typing experience, then the Outemu Silent White switch with its linear feel and silent operation would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound level. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing needs.
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