Outemu Red vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red 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 Red and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both offer unique features worth considering. The Outemu Red is a linear switch with a straightforward design, known for its simplicity and reliability. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative semi-silent feature, providing a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying clack of bottoming out. The Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', offering a silky smooth feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to feature RGB lighting. Given this similarity in material for the top housing, users can expect similar acoustic and aesthetic results from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Outemu Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a similar depth and fullness in sound production when compared to the Red switch. This commonality in bottom housing material highlights the importance of this component in influencing the overall sound experience of a switch.
When it comes to the tactile experience of typing on switches with different top and bottom housing materials, users will notice distinct qualities depending on which part of the switch they interact with. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding how the qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall typing experience, users can select the switch that best aligns with their preferences for sound and feel. In this case, both the Outemu Red and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer a unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials for a balanced tactile and acoustic experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it is clear that the Red switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 46 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a similar typing experience in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Red switch. The Outemu Red switch falls more in the traditional range of travel distances, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a slightly shallower travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Outemu Red switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Red 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 Red linear switch is known for its lack of distinct qualities. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as having a subdued and neutral sound profile. This means that while the Red switch may produce a standard mechanical keyboard sound, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience, making it suitable for various environments.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red linear switch doesn't have a specific description provided. However, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is noted for its mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel. This indicates that the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a gentle, responsive, smooth, and refined typing experience. In contrast, without specific information on the feel of the Outemu Red switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is clear that the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a unique combination of subdued sound and a variety of pleasant tactile sensations. While the Outemu Red linear switch may offer a standard experience in terms of sound and feel, the innovative design of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch sets it apart as a more versatile and potentially enjoyable option for newcomers seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, and choosing between them would depend on personal preference and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a traditional linear switch with a medium bottom out force and are not concerned about noise levels, the Outemu Red could be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more innovative and semi-silent typing experience with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, smooth feel, and slightly subdued noise level, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a more traditional switch design or are open to trying a newer, quieter option with unique features.
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