Outemu Silver vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and the Outemu Phoenix offer two distinct experiences. The Silver switch is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is a clicky switch, celebrated for its under-skirt click mechanism that provides a unique and crunchy feel. Both switches have their own appeal – the Silver for its simplicity and smoothness, and the Phoenix for its satisfying click and sparkling 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
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Silver and Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better light diffusion. However, the Silver's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate, enhancing the overall typing experience in a different way.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the Silver and Phoenix differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience compared to the crisper sound produced by the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. The split between the two housing materials allows for a combination of qualities when typing, with each housing material showcasing its own impact on the sound and feel of the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silver and Outemu Phoenix will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Phoenix provides a sharper and clearer sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches offer the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, but the differences in bottom housing material result in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Phoenix has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Phoenix is slightly lighter at 62 grams compared to the Silver's 65 grams, making it the lighter option overall. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Silver may be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier key press, while the Phoenix offers a lighter touch for those who type for extended periods or prefer a lighter feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, which is longer than the 3.3mm travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Silver switch offers a more traditional key press experience with a deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile feel when typing. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or those seeking a faster response time. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Silver switch being on the longer side while the Phoenix switch falls on the shorter side of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for being relatively quiet compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is celebrated for its unique under-skirt click mechanism that produces a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This distinctive sound profile adds a satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy an audible typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, but linear switches typically offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is categorized as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This polished finish, combined with the click mechanism, provides users with reduced friction and smooth key travel for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silver switch provides a quieter typing experience with a linear feel, while the Phoenix switch stands out with its unique crunchy sound and polished feel. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, each switch offers a different typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Silver with 65 grams might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and want a unique and sparkling clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, the Phoenix with 62 grams could be the better choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a crunchy sound profile and a polished feel for smooth key travel, the Phoenix may be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and which features resonate with you the most.
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