Outemu Gold vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative semi-silent design that provides a quiet top-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Gold switch falls into the clicky switch category, while the Semi-Silent Linear is classified as a linear switch with characteristics like being subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Gold and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Jwick's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. While both the Outemu Gold and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share polycarbonate top housings, the Gold's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the Jwick's polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Jwick creates a crisper and clearer sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch can have distinct characteristics that affect the typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel. The Outemu Gold's nylon bottom housing will provide a softer and rounder sound compared to the Jwick's polycarbonate bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may have similar polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material can significantly influence the overall sound profile and typing feel of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we find that the Gold has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold switch requires 60 grams while the Semi-Silent Linear needs 62 grams, making the Semi-Silent Linear the heavier option in this regard. Both switches fall into the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces. The weight difference between the two switches can cater to different preferences, with the lighter Gold switch being preferred for longer typing sessions and gaming, while the heavier Semi-Silent Linear switch offering a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Gold switch is slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. Generally, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress for some users, as it offers more depth and feedback. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel, the Outemu Gold switch may be the better option. However, if you prefer a faster and more responsive typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch might be more suitable.
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 Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its sharp and crisp click sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, making it quieter and more suitable for environments where noise may be a concern. While the Gold switch delivers a more traditional and pronounced clicky sound, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subtle and muted typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience, with a noticeable bump on actuation that enhances feedback for the user. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke, providing a gentle and snappy typing sensation. The linear nature of the Semi-Silent switch ensures a consistent force requirement throughout the key press, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences.
Overall, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold switch excels in delivering a tactile and clicky typing experience with a sharp sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a smoother and quieter alternative for those seeking a more subdued sound. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, you should consider their unique characteristics. If you value a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and are not concerned about noise level, the Gold switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, a silky smooth feel, and a subdued sound profile, then the Semi-Silent Linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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