Outemu Silver vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two notable linear switches are the Outemu Silver and the HMX Twilight, each presenting unique attributes that can enhance your typing experience. The Outemu Silver is recognized for its smooth keystrokes, designed for gamers and typists who appreciate rapid actuation without unnecessary tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight stands out with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which not only offers a slightly quieter operation but also retains the signature clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. While the Silver may appeal to those seeking speed and efficiency in their key presses, the Twilight could be the better choice for users who value a more pronounced auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Silver Linear

HMX Twilight 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 HMX Twilight switches, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Silver utilizes polycarbonate for its upper section, which is noted for its sharpness, crisper sound profile, and resonance due to its stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more defined auditory experience, particularly when using RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucence enhances the visual effects of backlighting. In contrast, the Twilight employs a nylon top housing. Nylon's softer structure absorbs sound more effectively, creating a sound that is deeper and fuller, resulting in a more muted auditory feedback when typing. Consequently, the difference in materials suggests that users will experience varying sound dynamics—a brightness and clarity from the Silver versus the warmth and depth from the Twilight.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Silver and Twilight employ nylon for their lower sections, leading to a significant similarity in the sound profiles attributed to this component. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and rounder acoustic experience. It effectively dampens sound, giving a more muted feel when the switch is bottomed out. Therefore, despite their differences in top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Silver and nylon for the Twilight—the bottom housings unify their performance characteristics in producing a rich lower-end sound that is consistent across both switches.

Ultimately, the combined qualities of each switch’s top and bottom housings lead to a unique typing experience. For the Outemu Silver, the sharper, higher-frequency response from the polycarbonate top is balanced by the deeper, rounded tones provided by the nylon bottom. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight leverages the softness of nylon in both houses, delivering a consistently fuller, deeper sound profile through its construction. While users may prefer one type of sound over the other, the inherent materials and their placement within the switch significantly influence the overall auditory and tactile experience when typing, highlighting the intricate relationship between housing materials and switch performance.

Weight

The Outemu Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch exhibit distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Outemu Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that provides a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to those who favor a more effortless keystroke. While both switches are designed for linear responsiveness, the Silver's heavier forces may be preferable for those seeking a more substantial feel during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Twilight's lighter forces could be ideal for users looking for comfort during extended use. Overall, if you prioritize a heavier typing experience, the Outemu Silver is the clear choice, while the HMX Twilight is better suited for those who prefer a lighter, more delicate touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find that the Silver has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Twilight measures at 3.85 mm. This makes the Outemu Silver the longer option, providing a more traditional experience that some users may find more satisfying due to its greater depth. In contrast, the HMX Twilight offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to gamers who may prioritize quick response times over a more pronounced key press feel. For those who prefer a balance of feedback and responsiveness, the choice between these switches largely depends on personal preference regarding travel distance—those favoring a deeper press might lean toward the Outemu Silver, whereas those seeking a quicker actuation could favor the Twilight.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Silver linear switch typically has a more muted acoustic profile, which may appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch features an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, leading to a noticeably softer sound while still retaining the signature clacky characteristics associated with HMX switches. This combination results in a unique auditory experience, balancing tranquility with some crispness, depending on the keystrokes.

When it comes to feel, the Silver switch may not boast any standout qualities, as its performance is more subdued, making it less memorable in tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a smooth and satisfying experience, thanks to its extended travel distance that allows for a more gradual keypress. This results in a softer bottom-out feeling, which many enthusiasts can appreciate, especially during prolonged typing sessions, promoting comfort and reducing finger fatigue.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Silver linear switch provides a more understated sound with a less defined feeling, the HMX Twilight linear switch stands out with its distinct auditory character and a more engaging tactile experience. For those looking to explore mechanical keyboards, both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences, allowing users to achieve specific acoustic and tactile outcomes according to their setups and individual tastes.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silver may be the better choice for you, especially if you're engaged in tasks that require deliberate keystrokes. This switch can provide a satisfying resistance that some typists find enhances their typing experience. On the other hand, if you desire a lighter, more effortless typing experience, the HMX Twilight with its 50 grams of force may suit you better. Its extended 3.85mm travel distance not only makes it quieter but also allows for a smoother typing experience, ideal for gaming or prolonged typing sessions. The Twilight's characteristics might be more appealing if you enjoy the clack of acoustics without the heavier bottoming-out noise. So, consider what aligns with your preferences—whether you seek the heft and resistance of the Silver or the lightness and quietness of the Twilight—and choose accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

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HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more