Outemu Silver vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options like the Outemu Silver and the Akko Rosewood, both of which offer distinct characteristics despite being linear switches. The Outemu Silver captures attention for its smooth keystrokes and quick actuation, making it an appealing choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and a consistent feel. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood stands out for its deep, satisfying "thocky" sound profile, thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that enhances the auditory experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile typing sensation. While both switches present compelling advantages—speed for the Silvers and a rich sound profile for the Rosewoods—individual preferences can vary widely. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silver Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Akko Rosewood, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, celebrated for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which results from its stiffer nature. This stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those looking to pair their switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Rosewood utilizes a nylon top housing, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Silver emphasizes articulation and brightness, the Rosewood provides richness and warmth.

Meanwhile, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Outemu Silver and Akko Rosewood utilize nylon. This shared material ensures that both switches will produce a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed down. Nylon's properties of sound absorption lend themselves to creating a muted effect, contributing to a bottom-out sound that feels rounder and more robust across both models. This similarity means that, regardless of the differences presented at the top housing level, users can expect a comparable auditory feel when the keys are depressed, enhancing the similarity in typing experience despite the overall tonal differences.

Ultimately, the housing configurations of the Outemu Silver and Akko Rosewood illustrate how varying materials can shape distinct sound profiles while fostering a shared auditory experience through their nylon bottom frames. The softer nylon base ensures that, regardless of the polycarbonate or nylon top, the typing experience will include a deeper resonance characteristic of nylon. Therefore, while the Outemu Silver is likely to cater to those desiring a clear, sparkling sound when releasing keys, the Akko Rosewood remains ideal for users who prefer a more robust and mellow feedback. The interplay of these materials results in a unique combination, attracting differing preferences within the keyboard enthusiast community.

Weight

The Outemu Silver linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silver switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy, which may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push during typing. In contrast, the Rosewood switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more comfortable choice for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. This difference means that the Akko Rosewood is generally better suited for those who favor a lighter touch, while the Outemu Silver appeals to users who enjoy a firmer key response. Overall, the Silver's heavier forces can be beneficial for those seeking a robust typing experience, while the Rosewood's lighter forces cater to comfort and endurance.

Travel distance

The Outemu Silver linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches move the same distance from the top to the bottom, providing users with a similar tactile experience during key presses. As a result, users can expect comparable performance in terms of key response and actuation, regardless of which switch they choose. Therefore, both switches will deliver a consistent feel and functionality, making them equally effective for those who prefer a linear switch design.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have a distinct sound profile that stands out, often resulting in a muted or neutral acoustic experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch produces a deep, satisfying thocky sound that is quite pleasant, largely due to the thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that enhances its acoustic qualities. The auditory experience with the Rosewood is likely to be more engaging and enjoyable, making it a favored choice for those who appreciate a pronounced sound while typing or gaming.

Regarding the feel, the Outemu Silver linear switch has not been characterized by any specific qualities that enhance its tactile feedback, leading to a generic experience that might not leave a lasting impression. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch offers a smoother and more refined typing experience, attributed to its design and lubrication. This makes the Rosewood switch feel more responsive and satisfying during use, which is an appealing attribute for users who prioritize tactile quality.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Silver linear switch may provide a more neutral experience in both sound and feel, the Akko Rosewood linear switch shines with its thocky acoustic signature and smooth tactile feedback. For anyone seeking a rich auditory and physical experience, the Rosewood switch is a compelling option. If a user prefers a quieter or less pronounced quality, the Silver switch may still serve adequately, though it may lack the enjoyable characteristics found in the Rosewood.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch depends primarily on your personal preferences regarding actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke with a more muted sound, the Outemu Silver, with its 65 grams of bottom-out force, provides a firm typing experience that some users find more satisfying and controlled, especially for fast-paced gaming or precise typing. However, if you lean towards a lighter touch that allows for quicker actuation with just 50 grams of bottom-out force, then the Rosewood switch may be ideal for you. It's not only easier to press but also gives you a delightful thocky sound that is satisfying right out of the box, thanks to its factory lubrication. Therefore, if you value a quieter and more tactile experience with a smooth, deep sound, the Akko Rosewood is your best bet. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you desire the firmness of the Silver or the effortless response of the Rosewood.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more