Outemu Silent White vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star RedBlue mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options with unique characteristics. The Silent White is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are also linear and are particularly suited for those who enjoy a medium-light typing feel with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While both switches offer smooth key presses, the Silent White provides a silent typing experience, whereas the RedBlue switches have a distinct sound profile. 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
57g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing material of the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star RedBlue switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, making it ideal for switches intended for use with such lighting. However, the Silent White's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder tone when typing. In contrast, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and more resonant sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate material.
The differences in bottom housing materials between the Silent White and RedBlue switches highlight how the choice of material can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the nylon bottom housing of the Silent White produces a deeper sound profile, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue maintains a sharper and crisper tone. This split in housing materials allows for a variety of sensations when typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, both the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star RedBlue switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in similar sharp and crisp sound profiles. However, the differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches highlight how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Silent White creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue maintains a more resonant tone. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in a switch can provide a unique and customizable typing experience based on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Silent White linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the RedBlue has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Silent White switch is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the RedBlue switch, but both fall within the category of medium to medium-light in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the RedBlue may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Silent White may be the better option. Regardless of the slight differences in force, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience that is sure to please users seeking a quieter keyboard option.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Silent White offers a slightly quicker response time, making it a favorite among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a bit more depth in its travel, which some users may find more comfortable and satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, quicker travel distance or a longer, more deliberate one. Both switches offer different typing experiences, but provide similar results in terms of functionality.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Outemu Silent White comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 best known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those looking to minimize noise levels during typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Silent White excelling in noise reduction and the RedBlue switch delivering a more resonant and bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent White switch's tactile feedback and typing experience are not specifically described in the provided information. However, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the RedBlue switch contributes to reduced friction and enhanced key travel, resulting in a refined and sleek typing sensation that is comfortable for extended use.
Overall, the Outemu Silent White and SP-Star RedBlue switches each have their strengths in sound and feel qualities. While the Silent White excels in providing a quiet typing experience, the RedBlue stands out for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, as well as its mild and polished feel. Depending on your preferences for noise levels and typing sensations, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable and consistent performance, ensuring that you will achieve similar results in terms of quality and satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent White linear switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 57 grams and enjoy a unique typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
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