Outemu Green vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to Outemu mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Green and the Outemu Phoenix. The Outemu Green is a clicky switch that is best known for its tactile feedback and audible sound when pressed, making it a favored option for typists who enjoy the satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique typing experience with a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. With categories such as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished', the Phoenix switch adds a touch of sophistication to your typing experience. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Green and Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Green uses a nylon bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate.
While the top housings of the Outemu Green and Outemu Phoenix are both made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ in material. The split between the two housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green contributes to a rounded and dull sound when bottoming out a key, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Phoenix maintains a clear and sharp sound profile. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the choice of housing material in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The Outemu Green and Outemu Phoenix showcase how different housing materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon, can impact the sound characteristics. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp sound profile, the Green's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear and resonant sound associated with polycarbonate. Whether looking for a fuller sound or a crisper sound profile, understanding the role of housing materials is essential in selecting the right switch for your preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix is lighter at 62 grams, while the Outemu Green has a higher bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Outemu Green requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Outemu Phoenix. This makes the Outemu Phoenix a lighter option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the Outemu Green provides a more substantial and firmer feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Phoenix's 3.3 mm. The Green switch provides a more traditional key press feeling with a deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or individuals seeking a quicker response time. Both options have their advantages depending on personal preference - the Green for a more pronounced key press and the Phoenix for a quicker, more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Green comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 Green clicky switch is known for its traditional clicky switch characteristics, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch boasts a unique under-skirt click mechanism that produces a crystalline and sparkling sound and feel. The Green switch has a standard clicky sound, whereas the Phoenix switch is described as having a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. When it comes to feel, the Green switch does not have a specific descriptor, while the Phoenix switch is noted to have a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while both switches offer clicky feedback, the Phoenix switch stands out for its innovative mechanism and distinct sound and feel, providing a refreshing typing experience for users looking for something different in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a more traditional clicky switch feel, the Outemu Green may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique and sparkling clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix could be the switch for you. Consider factors such as sound profile, typing experience, and your own typing preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer a distinct typing experience and can cater to different needs and preferences.
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