Outemu Gold vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and Kailh Sage offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that is best known for its unique characteristics, while the Kailh Sage is also a clicky switch but is best known for its heavy weight and sharp, crunchy clickiness. If you prefer a more subtle and balanced typing feel, the Outemu Gold may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a pronounced click, the Kailh Sage could be the better choice. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Gold and the Kailh Sage switches lies in their bottom housings. While both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the Gold features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile created by the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Sage also uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound quality.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Gold and the Sage switches feature a clear housing due to their top housings being made of polycarbonate. This makes them ideal for use with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a vibrant display of colors. However, when it comes to sound profiles, the choice between the Gold and the Sage ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Gold switch with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sage switch provides a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its stiffer polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Gold and the Kailh Sage switches result in contrasting sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of materials for the bottom housing creates distinct typing experiences. The Gold switch with its nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sage switch, also with a nylon bottom housing, offers a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile can help users make an informed decision based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Sage is the heavier switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams, compared to the Gold's 60 grams. However, the Gold has a lower actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Gold is lighter overall, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sage provides a stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer heavier forces. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we see that the Gold has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Sage's 3.6 mm. The Gold switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Sage provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers might prefer the Sage for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress might lean towards the Gold switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for being relatively quiet compared to other clicky switches on the market. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as having a crunchy sound that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches will provide a satisfying auditory experience, but the Sage may offer a more pronounced and sharp clickiness.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch's tactile feedback and actuation force are not well-defined. In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as invigorating with a moderate to firm actuation force, providing a snappy and reactive typing experience. The Sage switch also offers a sharp tactile bump that is prominent and distinctive with each keypress. This means that the Sage switch may offer a more tactile and responsive typing sensation compared to the Gold switch.
Overall, both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold switch may provide a quieter typing experience, the Sage switch stands out with its crunchy sound and invigorating tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience or a more tactile and sharp feel, both switches have something to offer for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are not specifically looking for any particular feature, the Outemu Gold switch may be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a distinctive clicky typing experience with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh Sage switch would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of tactile feedback, sound, and typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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