Outemu Silent White vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Silent White switch is best known for its lack of distinct characteristics, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch is praised for its innovative design that combines whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound. The Silent White switch falls into a general category, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. If you prefer a more traditional linear switch experience, the Outemu Silent White may be the way to go, but if you're looking for something unique that offers a smooth feel with a combination of quiet and clacky sounds, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more appealing. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, they differ in their bottom housing material, with the Silent White utilizing nylon while the Semi-Silent Linear also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing.
Despite both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, they offer distinct characteristics when it comes to typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material between the Silent White and the Semi-Silent Linear may impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch, providing users with unique tactile feedback and acoustic response based on the housing materials used.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining its sound profile and typing experience. While both the Outemu Silent White and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, their differing bottom housing materials may result in distinct tactile feedback and sound profiles. Whether opting for the sharper, crisper sound of the Silent White or the deeper, fuller sound of the Semi-Silent Linear, users can enjoy a unique typing experience based on the housing materials selected for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a medium weight feel to them. The Outemu Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams. In terms of weight, the Outemu Silent White is lighter than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Silent White for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear with its slightly heavier bottom out force might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Silent White has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. A shorter travel distance can be favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile sensations due to their varying travel distances, and users can expect distinct typing feel when using each switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Outemu Silent White switch is known for its lack of notable sound qualities, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is praised for its subdued and neutral sound profile. The Semi-Silent Linear offers a quieter topping-out noise while still maintaining a clackier bottom-out sound, providing a more subtle overall sound signature compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Outemu Silent White switch does not have any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. This indicates that the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a gentle typing experience with responsive feedback and a smooth, effortless keystroke. The switch's polished finish results in reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent White and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent White switch may not have distinctive characteristics in sound and feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its subdued sound profile and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If similar results are desired, both switches may provide a satisfactory experience, but the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may offer a more refined and innovative typing experience for those seeking a quieter and smoother key press.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent White linear switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force that is silent and doesn't have any specific standout features, then the Outemu Silent White might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are interested in a semi-silent switch that offers a unique typing experience with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great option. Both switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, so it's important to consider what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision.
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