Outemu Silent White vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch, with the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, one can already see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Silent White is best known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique and satisfying clicky feel and sound profile. While the Silent White is categorized as a smooth linear switch, the Phoenix falls into the crunchy and polished category. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preferences and typing style; 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent White and Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. However, the Silent White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phoenix features a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, emphasizing the clear and resonant sound profile associated with this material.
Because the top and bottom housings of the Silent White and Phoenix switches are made of different materials, the overall typing experience is influenced by both. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt more in the bottom-out sound and feel of the keypress. Meanwhile, the qualities of the top housing will come into play when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced. Despite the differences in the bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Silent White, and polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Phoenix.
In summary, while both the Outemu Silent White and Outemu Phoenix utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper sound profile and RGB compatibility, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Silent White's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with its clear and resonant sound design. Ultimately, the split qualities between the top and bottom housings create distinct typing experiences for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Silent White requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phoenix which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Silent White at 60 grams and the Phoenix at 62 grams. This means that while the Silent White may be lighter to initially press down, both switches require a similar amount of force for the key to fully bottom out. Some users may prefer the Silent White for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel 3.3 mm from the top to the bottom. As such, the travel distance for both switches is equal. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent White comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 switch is known for being virtually silent, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as having a unique and distinctive "crunchy" sound due to its under-skirt click mechanism. This clicky sound is often compared to walking on crunchy autumn leaves, adding an extra layer of tactile and auditory feedback to the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Silent White switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as having a "polished" feel, which indicates a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This polished feel is achieved through either the materials used in the switch or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for a more comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Silent White linear switch and Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Silent White switch is perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Phoenix clicky switch provides a unique auditory feedback with its crunchy sound profile. Additionally, the polished feel of the Phoenix switch adds a level of smoothness and comfort to the typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a quieter typing experience and do not require a tactile feedback, the Silent White switch with its smooth linear feel may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct and satisfying click with each key press and appreciate a unique sound profile, the Phoenix clicky switch with its under-skirt click mechanism may be the more suitable option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and ultimately choose the switch that best fits your typing needs.
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