Outemu Silent Green vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Green and the Kailh Plum stand out for their unique characteristics. The Silent Green is a linear switch known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that offers a unique feel with a hefty weight but a subtle tactile bump. While the Silent Green is categorized as a linear switch, the Plum falls under the tactile category with descriptors like 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Stepped'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences in typing 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Kailh Plum, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The top housing significantly impacts the sound when a key is released, contributing to the overall typing experience for both switches.
However, where the Silent Green and the Plum differ is in their bottom housing materials. While the Silent Green also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing a stiffer plastic for a resonant sound profile, the Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material contributes to how the switches feel and sound when a key is pressed down, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in both the Outemu Silent Green and the Kailh Plum switches plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience for users. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and translucency for RGB lighting, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to variations in sound depth and feel. Whether opting for the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green or the softer nylon bottom housing of the Plum, users can expect a unique typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Green has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Silent Green has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Silent Green provides a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, while the Plum offers a more substantial feel with its heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Silent Green may be the better option, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Plum's 3.6 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can significantly affect the typing experience. The Silent Green switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel, while the Plum switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique benefits, and choosing between them will depend on what feels most comfortable and natural to the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Green comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Green switch is known for its lack of audible clicking or clacking, providing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various use cases whether at home or work. The sound produced by both switches will also be affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have a specific feel associated with it. In contrast, the Kailh Plum switch is known for its mild tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing experience with a subtle tactile bump that is different from the typical heavyweight tactile switches. Additionally, the Plum switch is described as having a stepped feel, meaning there are two distinct stages to the keystroke - pre-travel and post-travel, providing a unique typing sensation.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a quiet sound profile and are looking for a linear feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a mild tactile feedback with a unique stepped feel, the Kailh Plum switch would be a great option. Both switches offer different qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience, so selecting between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider the level of force you prefer when typing. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Silent Green with 60 grams may be more suitable for you. However, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Plum with 70 grams may be a better option. Additionally, if you value a unique tactile experience with a moderate sound profile, the Plum's Plum switches may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Silent Green could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force requirements.
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