Outemu Silent Green vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Silent Green and the Outemu Tom. The Silent Green is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Tom is a tactile switch, known for its distinct bump feedback upon actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer more tactile feedback. Each switch has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, depending on individual preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Outemu Tom switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Silent Green also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Tom boasts a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Tom contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Outemu Silent Green and the Outemu Tom leads to distinct sound and feel characteristics. When typing on the Silent Green, users will experience a crisper and sharper bottom-out sound due to the stiff polycarbonate bottom housing. In contrast, the Tom's nylon bottom housing will produce a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, providing a different typing experience. This showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch, influencing the user's typing experience.
While both the Outemu Silent Green and the Outemu Tom switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their distinct bottom housing materials result in differing sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the sharp and crisp sound of the top housing, creating a cohesive typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, providing a unique typing sensation. Understanding the role of housing materials in switch design is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch both have their own unique actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Green has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Tom's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Green requires 60 grams while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The Silent Green provides a medium resistance for typing, allowing for a smooth and efficient typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom offers a stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing feedback. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Green for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Tom for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and whether one values a lighter or heavier key press.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Silent Green has a slightly longer travel distance than the Tom, making it more suitable for those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Tom's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a more responsive typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel and typing experience due to their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Silent Green 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 Silent Green switch is known for its silent operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch is valued for its tactile feedback, providing users with a noticeable bump when a key is actuated. The Silent Green switch is smooth and linear without any tactile feedback, while the Tom switch offers a more pronounced tactile sensation.
When it comes to sound, the Silent Green switch produces a noise level that is minimal and quiet, perfect for environments where noise can be a concern. In contrast, the Tom switch may produce a slightly louder sound due to the tactile bump that occurs during actuation. However, the actual noise level can also be influenced by various factors such as keyboard case material and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Silent Green switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback, providing a linear feel. On the other hand, the Tom switch provides a tactile bump that gives users a sense of confirmation when a key is pressed, enhancing the overall typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of whether one prefers a smooth linear feel or a tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Green switch is best suited for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Outemu Tom switch is ideal for individuals who enjoy a tactile feedback when typing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider your own typing style and preferences when choosing between the two. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a quiet and linear typing experience or a tactile feedback when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Silent Green may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are seeking a tactile feedback with your keystrokes, the Tom tactile switch might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound level, and bottom out force to ensure you choose the switch that best fits your needs.
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