Outemu Green vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green 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 Green and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stand out as unique options to consider. The Outemu Green is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying tactile feedback with a loud click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch that boasts a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear is known for its silky smooth feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more subdued and buttery 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. While both switches share this material in their top housing, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Green switch's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Semi-Silent Linear switch also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics as the Green but with a focus on creating a quieter typing experience.
Despite their similarities in utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, the Outemu Green and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches differ in the sound profiles generated by their nylon bottom housings. While both switches offer a unique typing experience with the use of nylon, the Green switch emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those seeking a more pronounced typing feedback. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear switch aims to minimize sound with its nylon bottom housing, creating a quieter typing experience while still maintaining a level of tactile feedback. The choice between these switches may depend on the user's preference for either a louder, more tactile typing experience or a quieter, more subdued one.
In understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch behavior, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housing of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Green and Semi-Silent Linear switches creates a distinct sound profile when compared to their respective nylon bottom housings. Whether seeking a louder, more resonant typing experience or a quieter, more subdued one, users can choose between these switches based on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, which has a force that is not specified. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Green requiring more at 80 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear at 62 grams. The Green switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Green 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. This means that the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Green switch. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel for those who prefer a deeper press. In terms of travel distance, the Outemu Green clicky switch offers a slightly longer distance than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Green clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, which can be satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is characterized by a more subdued and neutral sound profile. The Semi-Silent Linear offers a quieter typing experience with a soft topping-out sound, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Green switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience, with a pronounced bump and audible click on actuation. In comparison, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and buttery feel that is smooth and gentle on the fingers. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is also described as snappy and polished, providing a responsive and refined typing experience that is comfortable for most users.
Overall, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Green switch delivers a loud and tactile typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a quieter and smoother alternative. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Whether you opt for the clicky feedback of the Green switch or the quiet precision of the Semi-Silent Linear switch, both switches will deliver reliable performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound, the Outemu Green clicky switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a semi-silent typing experience with a silky smooth feel, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch would be a great option. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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