Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. The Spring Breeze switch is renowned for its satisfying clicky sound, offering a tactile feedback that some users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, providing a unique typing experience with whisper-quiet top-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. The Spring Breeze switch is categorized as tactile, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear switch falls under categories like subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Each switch has its strengths and appeals to different preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is clear that the two switches use different materials for their top housings. The Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This contrast in material highlights the impact that the top housing can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Spring Breeze and the Semi-Silent Linear use nylon as their material. This means that despite any differences in the top housing, the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will be similar, as nylon absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that typists will experience a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys, showcasing the consistency in sound that can be achieved with this material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. While the Spring Breeze and the Semi-Silent Linear differ in their top housing materials, they both share the use of nylon in the bottom housing. This results in a similar bottom-out sound and feel for both switches, highlighting the importance of housing materials in creating the desired sound profile. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, each material brings its own unique qualities to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we can see some differences. The Outemu Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear, which does not specify an actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Semi-Silent Linear is heavier at 62 grams, while the Spring Breeze has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Spring Breeze is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier when it comes to bottoming out, providing a balance of feedback. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear may offer a more consistent typing experience with a higher bottom out force. Both switches have their advantages, with the Spring Breeze being better for those who prefer a lighter actuation force, while the Semi-Silent Linear is suitable for those who prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Spring Breeze offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience. In conclusion, the Spring Breeze switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch, but both switches offer their own unique advantages based on individual preferences.
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 Spring Breeze 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
When it comes to sound, the Spring Breeze switch is known for being on the quieter side, making it a good option for those who prefer a less obtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle typing experience. Both switches aim to minimize the noise produced during typing, with the Semi-Silent Linear switch offering a slightly quieter option compared to the Spring Breeze.
In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze switch's tactile feedback is yet unknown, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as snappy, providing a responsive typing feel that is lively and engaging. Additionally, it is noted for its buttery and polished attributes, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation that is effortless and uniform.
Overall, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch both provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Spring Breeze offers a quieter typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch aims to provide a subdued and gentle feel with a more polished finish. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, you should first consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a clicky sound with a slightly more tactile feel, the Spring Breeze may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, semi-silent typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the level of noise you are comfortable with and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider what feels best for you.
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