Outemu Green vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Green and the Kailh Sage. The Outemu Green is categorized as a clicky switch, known for its unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches are also clicky, offering a distinct and sharp clickiness that some find invigorating. While the Green switch may be preferred for its standard clicky feel, the Sage switch stands out for its heavy weight and sharp clickiness. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Both the Outemu Green and the Kailh Sage feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is known for its translucency, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches use nylon. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound overall.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Outemu Green and Kailh Sage affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on the switch, you will experience the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a deeper sound profile during typing. Conversely, the top housing material, made of polycarbonate in both switches, plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. This split between housing materials allows for a dynamic range of sound profiles within each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Green and the Kailh Sage offer unique sound profiles due to their combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall sound profile. The split between these housing materials allows for a balance of impact and resonance when typing on these switches, making them both appealing options for those looking for a tactile and auditory experience while typing.
Weight
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a higher actuation force than the Kailh Sage clicky switch, with 65 grams compared to the Sage's unknown value. In terms of bottom out force, the Green switch also requires more pressure at 80 grams, while the Sage switch bottoms out at 70 grams. This makes the Outemu Green switch the heavier option of the two. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kailh Sage switch would be the better choice, as it offers a lighter actuation force. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and don't mind the extra weight, the Outemu Green switch would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Outemu Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the 0.4 mm difference may seem minor, it can impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Kailh Sage may appeal to those looking for faster response times, particularly gamers who require quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Green may provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Green 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 Green clicky switch is known for its unique sound profile, which is not clearly defined in the provided information. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Depending on factors like the keyboard construction and keycaps used, the sound of these switches may vary, but both are likely to provide a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy clicky switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Green switch lacks a specific descriptor for its tactile feel, making it harder to compare directly to the Kailh Sage switch. The Kailh Sage switch, however, is described as invigorating and sharp. This means that users can expect a pronounced tactile feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel when typing. The sharp tactile bump in the Sage switch is prominent and gives each keystroke a distinct and tactile sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the sound profile of the Green switch is not clearly defined, users can expect a satisfying clicky sound from both switches, with the Sage having a crunchy sound. In terms of feel, the Sage switch stands out with its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a tactile typing sensation that may appeal to those looking for a more pronounced keystroke experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, knowing that both options will deliver a quality typing experience for enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a strong tactile feel and distinctive clicky sound, the Outemu Green switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a crunchy clicky sound and invigorating tactile feedback, then the Kailh Sage switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the environment you'll be using the keyboard in when making your decision between these two clicky switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual preferences.
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