Outemu Silver vs. Huano Sakura

Overview

When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and Huano Sakura stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to unique preferences and typing experiences. The Outemu Silver is known for its smooth keypresses, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking rapid actuation and consistent responsiveness during intense gameplay. Conversely, the Huano Sakura switches are distinguished by their feather-light touch and moderate acoustic profile, providing a comfortable typing experience ideal for lengthy writing sessions without causing fatigue. While both switches offer linear characteristics that enhance seamless key travel, the Outemu Silver leans toward speed and efficiency, while the Sakura emphasizes comfort and a satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silver Linear

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Huano Sakura switches, one notable distinction lies in their top housings. The Outemu Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is prized for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness. This quality allows for clearer resonance, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the illumination effects. Conversely, the Huano Sakura utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, renowned for its smoothness and durability. While not specifically tuned for brightness, the POK material contributes to a clackier sound profile, which may appeal to users desiring a tactile and audible typing experience. Thus, while both top housings serve distinct acoustic purposes, they enhance the switch experience in different ways.

In contrast, both the Outemu Silver and Huano Sakura switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, a material known for its ability to generate a deep and rounded sound profile. Nylon, as a classic choice in the switch industry, excels at absorbing sound, which results in a softer acoustic response that many typists find satisfying. This shared characteristic between the two models means that when it comes to the finish and impact of the bottom-out sound, both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience due to their nylon bottoms. Consequently, irrespective of their differing top housings, both switches can offer a comparable foundation in terms of sound when engaged.

The combined effects of these housing materials ultimately lead to a unique synergy that influences the overall performance of both switches. While the Outemu Silver benefits from the crispness of its polycarbonate top housing, creating a bright sound upon release, the Huano Sakura's POK material injects a smooth, clicky tone into its character. Meanwhile, the nylon bottoms effectively balance out the sound, resulting in a fuller typing experience in both cases. This exemplifies how the relationship between the materials of the top and bottom housings shapes the switch's sound profile and feedback. Hence, whether one prefers the sharper resonance of polycarbonate or the smoothness of POK, the shared nylon housing ensures that users experience a depth in sound that both models deliver.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there is a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silver switch features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. This difference in weight can significantly impact user experience; those who prefer a lighter switch, such as the Sakura, may find it more comfortable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions, while users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback might opt for the Silver. Essentially, individuals looking for a lighter touch should choose the Huano Sakura, while those who prefer a heavier switch should lean towards the Outemu Silver, highlighting their contrasting characteristics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Silver switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Sakura switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, positioning it as the shorter alternative. This difference in travel distance reflects varying user preferences; for those who appreciate heartier depth while typing, the Silver's 4 mm travel can provide a satisfying experience. Conversely, gamers or users seeking quicker response times may prefer the Sakura's 3.6 mm distance, which facilitates faster key presses and returns. Thus, while both switches offer unique characteristics to cater to differing tastes, the Silver allows for deeper travel, whereas the Sakura promotes responsiveness through its shorter distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the Silver lacks defining qualities, making it somewhat of an enigma in terms of acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Sakura is noted for its medium acoustics, which provides a pleasant auditory experience without being overly loud or intrusive. This balance of sound makes the Sakura switches particularly well-suited for extensive typing sessions, where a somewhat muted yet satisfying auditory feedback can enhance the experience.

When discussing the feel of these switches, the Outemu Silver offers no specific insights, leaving its tactile response less defined. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is recognized for its feather-light touch, which allows for a smooth and effortless typing experience. This quality contributes to a more comfortable usage over long periods, reducing finger fatigue, which is a significant advantage for typists who spend hours at their keyboards.

In summary, while the Outemu Silver linear switch remains ambiguous in its sound and feel, the Huano Sakura linear switch stands out with its medium acoustics and feather-light tactile response. If you're looking to choose a switch for extensive typing, the Sakura would likely provide a more satisfying experience. For those who prefer the unknown qualities of the Silver, you may find similarities in the overall typing experience, but the Sakura clearly defines itself with specific qualities that enhance user interaction and comfort.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the context in which you will be using your keyboard. If you prefer a firmer key feel and are accustomed to heavier switches, the Silver's medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams may suit you, especially if you engage in activities like gaming that benefit from more resistance and control. However, if you find yourself typing for long durations or simply prefer a lighter touch, the lighter 45-gram actuation force of the Sakura will provide a more comfortable experience with less finger fatigue. The Sakura's feather-light touch and medium acoustics make it ideal for extended typing sessions, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes. In contrast, if you're looking for a more robust sound profile that offers satisfying feedback without being overly loud, you might lean towards the Sakura as well. Consider how much you value sound and feel—if a gentler, smoother experience is what you desire, the Sakura is the clear choice. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific use case and personal comfort, ensuring that you enjoy both the performance and the tactile feedback of your mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more