Outemu Red vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Red and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Red switch is a linear switch with a smooth keystroke and no tactile bump, making it ideal for fast and uninterrupted typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Tom switch is a tactile switch with a noticeable bump in the keystroke, providing feedback and increasing typing accuracy. While the Red switch may be preferred for its straightforward feel, the Tom switch offers a more tactile 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
46g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Red and Outemu Tom switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetic appeal and sound quality, both switches benefit from the polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Outemu Red and Outemu Tom switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite having different bottom housings, both switches share the same qualities in terms of sound when pressed down, since the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing adds a unique touch to the overall typing experience for both the Outemu Red and Outemu Tom switches.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Outemu Red and Outemu Tom switches differ in terms of their top and bottom components, both switches offer a mix of sharp, high-pitched sounds from the polycarbonate top housing and deep, fuller tones from the nylon bottom housing. Whether it's the sharpness and clarity of the polycarbonate or the depth and richness of the nylon, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Overall, users can expect a blend of qualities from both housing materials, resulting in a satisfying typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Red requires 62 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Red switch provides a smoother and easier keystroke compared to the Tom switch, which offers a more tactile and pronounced typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Red being better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Tom is geared towards users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Tom's 3.3 mm. The difference of 0.7 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The Red switch's 4.0 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, while the Tom's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, which is favored by many gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference - whether you prefer a longer, more deliberate key press or a shorter, snappier response. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance can make a big difference in how the keys feel when pressed.
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 Red and Tom.
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 Red linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a popular choice for gamers. It is often praised for its quiet operation, with a lack of tactile feedback creating a smooth keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback with each press. This tactile feel can help with touch typing and accuracy, but it does produce a bit of noise compared to the Red switch.
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red switch is often described as quiet and lacking in audible feedback, making it a good choice for those who prefer a stealthy typing experience. The Outemu Tom switch, on the other hand, is known for producing a bit more noise due to its tactile bump, offering a more audible typing experience that some may find satisfying.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch provides a consistent linear experience with no tactile bump, allowing for quick and smooth key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Tom switch offers a noticeable tactile feedback with each press, providing a satisfying tactile response that can enhance typing accuracy.
Overall, while the Outemu Red linear switch offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, ideal for gamers and those who prefer a silent keyboard, the Outemu Tom tactile switch provides a satisfying tactile bump for those who enjoy the feedback and precision it offers. Depending on your typing preferences and environment, both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize a quiet linear switch or a tactile switch with audible feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a consistent feel throughout, you may want to choose the Outemu Red linear switch. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a bump at the actuation point, you may prefer the Outemu Tom tactile switch. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels best for you during extended typing sessions. Consider trying out both switches if possible to see which one suits your typing style the best.
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