Outemu Purple vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Outemu Silent Green 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 Purple, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silent Green, a linear switch. The Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed, making it ideal for typists who prefer a more pronounced actuation point. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch is known for its smooth and silent keystrokes, perfect for those who want a quieter typing experience. While the Purple switch offers tactile feedback, the Silent Green switch provides a linear feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and the Outemu Silent Green, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for individuals looking for a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a customizable aesthetic element to the switches. However, the Purple switch features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Outemu Purple and the Outemu Silent Green ultimately offer a similar typing experience when it comes to their top housing characteristics. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feedback for users. Whether pressing down on the keys or releasing them, the impact of the top housing material on the sound is undeniable, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design. While the Purple switch's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper sound element, the Silent Green switch's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout ensures a more uniform sound experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Purple and Outemu Silent Green ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound profile with the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, the Purple switch stands out for its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch maintains a consistent sound profile throughout due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether one prefers a more resonant sound with the Silent Green or a deeper tone with the Purple, both switches offer high-quality materials that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Green requires less force for actuation at 45 grams compared to the Purple at 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Purple's force is unknown while the Silent Green requires 60 grams. This means that the Silent Green is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier when it comes to bottoming out. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a switch as it can impact typing sessions and gaming experiences. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Green for extended use, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Purple for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical. Users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. This shared travel distance allows for consistent typing experiences and key responses, making both switches reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Purple and Silent Green.
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 Purple tactile switch is known for a crisp and satisfying click with each keystroke, providing a tactile auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is designed to minimize noise with a smooth and quiet keystroke. Users who prefer a quieter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Green switch, while those who appreciate the audible click of the Purple switch may find it more satisfying.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing a distinct feedback that some users prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch offers a smoother keystroke without the tactile bump, allowing for a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. Users who prioritize a tactile feel may opt for the Purple switch, while those who prefer a smooth and linear keystroke may lean towards the Silent Green switch.
Overall, the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch offer distinct sound and feel preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Purple switch provides a satisfying click with tactile feedback, while the Silent Green switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and a tactile feedback, the Outemu Purple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium actuation force and a smooth, silent operation, the Outemu Silent Green switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, noise tolerance, and desired typing feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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