Outemu Green vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Green and Akko Rosewood offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Outemu Green, recognized for its clicky design, provides auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying and engaging, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and deep, thocky sound profile, amplified by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that makes it a pleasure to use during both gaming and typing sessions. Those who enjoy the tactile response and click of the Green may prefer it for its pronounced feedback, while users seeking a quieter and more fluid experience might lean towards the Rosewood. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Green and Akko Rosewood switches showcase two distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influence their acoustic properties. The Green's use of polycarbonate for the top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer structure. This design allows for a more crystalline resonance, making it particularly effective for those who enjoy the harmonious tones produced during typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal with vibrant colors that illuminate the keyboard. In stark contrast, the Rosewood's top housing is composed of nylon, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound. The result is a mellower, deeper acoustic experience that may appeal to users who prefer a warmer and more rounded sound when typing.
When examining the bottom housings in both switches, it is interesting to note that both utilize nylon. This shared material presents a common ground in terms of acoustic experience, as nylon is known to produce a fuller and deeper sound profile. The similarities in bottom housings mean that despite the differences in top housing materials, the foundational qualities that nylon offers remain consistent across both switches. Therefore, the typing experience will be enriched by the softening properties of nylon on both the Green and Rosewood switches, adding to a rich, tactile experience when bottoming out the keys.
In summary, the Outemu Green and Akko Rosewood switches are notably different in their top housing materials, leading to contrasting sound profiles. The polycarbonate of the Green promotes a sharper, clearer sound, ideal for those who appreciate the brightness in their keystrokes. Conversely, the nylon in the Rosewood delivers a deeper, fuller sound, catering to users seeking a warmer auditory experience. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a cohesive and rich sound when the key is fully depressed. Ultimately, these materials work together to create distinct yet complementary experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preferred typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Green switch features an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavier option. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This significant disparity means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming will find the Rosewood more comfortable, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel in their keystrokes may gravitate toward the heavier Green switch. Thus, while users seeking a softer touch may achieve their desired tactile feedback with the Rosewood, those who appreciate a stronger push will likely prefer the Outemu Green for its heft.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch share an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that the distance you feel when pressing down on either key is the same. This results in a similar tactile experience, as both switches require the same amount of movement for activation. As a consequence, users can expect comparable feedback and performance when using keyboards equipped with either switch, allowing for a uniform typing sensation between them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
The Outemu Green 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 considering the sound profile, the Outemu Green clicky switch tends to be sharp and pronounced, producing a distinct and clear click that many enthusiasts appreciate for its auditory feedback. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is renowned for its deep, satisfying thocky sound, which emanates thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that enhances its acoustic performance. The auditory experience with the Rosewood is generally smoother and more muted compared to the more jarring clicks of the Green, resulting in different atmospheres when typing or gaming.
In terms of tactile feel, the Outemu Green switch is characterized by its clicky feedback, which provides a tactile bump at the actuation point, making it satisfying for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. This feedback can enhance accuracy for users who prefer a definitive feel while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch offers a linear feel, meaning it lacks the tactile bump characteristic of switches like the Green. This results in a smoother and more uninterrupted keystroke without the distractions of a click, favoring users who prefer fluidity over tactile feedback.
Overall, the choices between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch largely boil down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you enjoy a decisive auditory and tactile feedback, the Green is likely to resonate with you. Conversely, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth keystroke, the Rosewood will be more suitable. Ultimately, each switch offers a unique approach to typing, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch will significantly depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a heavier switch with tactile feedback that produces a distinct click sound, the Green switch would be more suitable for typing applications where audible feedback enhances your experience. It's ideal for those who enjoy a robust and tactile sensation, despite the substantial effort required to bottom out at 80 grams. However, if you lean towards a lighter, smoother typing experience and appreciate a deeper sound with a pleasing thock, the Rosewood switch would be your best bet. With its 50 grams of actuation force and factory-applied lubricant, you can enjoy a satisfying, whisper-quiet keystroke, making it perfect for those long typing sessions or shared workspaces. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preference, and amount of force you'll want to exert when choosing between these two switches.