Outemu Silent White vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch, and the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch. The Silent White is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom provides a tactile feedback with each key press, giving typists a satisfying tactile bump. While the Silent White is categorized as a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke, the Tom falls into the tactile category, providing a noticeable bump when each key is actuated. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the Outemu Tom switches, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a clearer and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that both the Silent White and Tom switches would offer similar acoustics and aesthetics when it comes to their top housing material.
However, where these switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Silent White features a nylon bottom housing, while the Tom also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings typically produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the Silent White and Tom switches may still offer slightly different typing experiences based on the overall design and construction of the switches.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique combination of qualities to be felt and heard when using the switches. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, understanding the materials used in both the top and bottom housing is essential for users looking to select switches that best suit their typing preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent White is lighter while the Tom is heavier. The Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Tom switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that while the Silent White switch may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tom switch would be better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, with the Silent White allowing for longer typing sessions and the Tom providing a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel 3.3 mm from the top to the bottom. Due to their identical travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback when typing with either switch. Though they may differ in terms of actuation force and tactile response, the travel distance of 3.3 mm remains consistent across both switches. It is worth noting that this distance falls within the standard range for mechanical keyboard switches, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch.
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 White 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent White linear switch is best known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is also known for its quiet sound profile, offering a similar level of stealthy typing. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience without the loud click or clack commonly associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent White linear switch offers a smooth keystroke with no tactile bump, providing a consistent and predictable typing experience. On the contrary, the Outemu Tom tactile switch features a tactile bump that provides feedback when a key is actuated, offering a more tactile typing experience. This difference in feel allows users to choose between a linear switch for a smoother typing experience or a tactile switch for a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer a quiet typing experience suitable for those who prefer a more subdued keyboard sound profile. Whether you prefer a linear switch for a smoother keystroke or a tactile switch for a more pronounced feedback, both switches provide reliable and responsive performance for your typing needs. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should choose the Silent White if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and want a silent typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force specified and enjoy a tactile typing experience, then the Tom switch would be the better choice for you. Remember to consider factors such as sound and feel when making your decision, as they can greatly impact your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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