Outemu Silent Grey vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Silent Grey and the Kailh Sage. The Outemu Silent Grey switch is renowned for its quiet and highly tactile typing experience, featuring a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that is perfect for those seeking a satisfying yet silent switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness that is invigorating and crunchy. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you value silence and tactility or enjoy the satisfying clickiness and weight of a switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Kailh Sage switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softness and sound-absorbing properties.
While both the Outemu Silent Grey and Kailh Sage switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, they differ in how these materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a clear and resonant sound profile, whereas the softer nylon bottom housing results in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in housing materials allows for a balance of sharpness and depth in the sound produced by each switch.
With the properties of the top and bottom housing materials split between the two components of each switch, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the Outemu Silent Grey and Kailh Sage switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, emphasizing the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the sharper and higher-pitched characteristics of polycarbonate. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials offers a dynamic and distinctive typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we see that the Silent Grey has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sage's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 65 grams for the Silent Grey and 70 grams for the Sage, making them medium-heavy switches overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Silent Grey, while those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel may prefer the Kailh Sage. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. Players looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sage switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Silent Grey switch. Both switches offer similar tactile feedback, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Grey comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Sage 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Grey switch provides a quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued environment. In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy and sharp clickiness that is characteristic of clicky switches. Depending on personal preference, some users may find the Sage switch to be more satisfying in terms of sound feedback.
In regard to feel, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is known for its highly tactile and smooth keystroke with a pronounced bump, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a reactive and immersive typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for feedback intensity and keypress experience, users may lean towards one switch over the other.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Grey and Kailh Sage switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Grey switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Sage switch caters to users looking for a clicky and invigorating feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics, and selecting between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and responsive typing experience with either of these mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, you should consider your preference for noise level and tactile feedback. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a highly tactile feel, then the Silent Grey switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct clicky sound and a sharper tactile feedback, then the Sage switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and whether you prefer a silent or clicky switch. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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