Outemu Peach (V3) vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach (V3) and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Outemu Peach and the Kailh Sage. The Outemu Peach switch is a linear switch that is best known for its lightweight and silenced nature. This makes it a perfect choice for those who prefer a feathery light typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch falls under the clicky switch category and is best known for offering a distinct clicky typing experience. With a weight that is considered quite heavy and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, the Sage switch provides a unique tactile and audible feedback. While these general pointers may give you a good starting point, it's important to dive deeper into the specific characteristics and nuances of each switch to determine which one is the best fit for your personal preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Outemu Peach and the Kailh Sage, specifically their top housings, differ significantly. The Peach utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a duller and rounder tone. The Sage, on the other hand, features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Sage is more advantageous for RGB lighting purposes due to its translucency.
However, when it comes to their bottom housings, both switches employ nylon material. As such, typing on either switch elicits a similar deep and full sound profile. The nylon bottom housing, being relatively softer than harder plastics, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In terms of sound characteristics, users can expect comparable experiences when pressing down on the Peach or the Sage, as their bottom housings contribute significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel.
In summary, the main distinction between the Outemu Peach and the Kailh Sage lies in their top housing materials. The Peach's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. As for their bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon material, resulting in similar deep and full sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the desired sound characteristics and aesthetic preferences, particularly with regards to RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences. The Outemu Peach has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, meaning that minimal pressure is needed to register a keystroke. The bottom out force of the Peach is slightly heavier at 50 grams, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience.
On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch lacks information regarding its actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare with the Outemu Peach. However, it does have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This indicates a higher level of resistance and a more forceful typing experience compared to the Outemu Peach.
In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Outemu Peach to be suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for effortless keystrokes, reducing fatigue. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push may opt for options with heavier forces like the Kailh Sage.
Overall, while the Outemu Peach offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, the Kailh Sage provides a medium-heavy bottom out force without specifying its actuation force. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the suitable amount of resistance for their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Peach has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sage has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, the shorter travel distance of the Peach switch may be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer the heartier depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Sage switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40, 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
The Outemu Peach linear switch is best known for its lightweight and silenced qualities. This switch offers a feathery light typing experience, making it perfect for linear switch enthusiasts. In terms of sound, the Outemu Peach has a neutral sound profile with a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This muted sound reduces the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. When it comes to feel, the Outemu Peach switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone with a gentle resistance and a polished, smooth finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, offering a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is known for its distinct clicky typing experience. It offers a refreshingly sharp clickiness with a heavier weight compared to the Outemu Peach. In terms of sound, the Sage is described as crunchy. It produces a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In conclusion, the Outemu Peach and the Kailh Sage provide contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Peach offers a neutral and muted sound profile with a lightweight and silenced typing experience. It has a mild, subtle feel with polished, smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage delivers a distinct clicky sound with a heavier weight and an invigorating, sharp tactile feel. Based on this information, those looking for a feathery light and quiet typing experience may prefer the Outemu Peach, while those seeking a more pronounced feedback and clicky sound may lean towards the Kailh Sage. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing experience. If you prefer a feathery light typing experience and a quieter sound profile, the Outemu Peach would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are perfect for linear lovers who enjoy a lightweight feel and want a more muted typing sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier actuation force and a sharp, crisp tactile bump, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be a great option. These switches offer a refreshing clickiness and invigorating feedback while still maintaining a moderate actuation force. Ultimately, it is important to consider your preferences for weight, sound, and feel in order to choose the switch that will provide you with the most enjoyable typing experience.
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