Outemu Tom vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch offers distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Tom is designed to provide a tactile feedback that many typists appreciate for its pronounced bump, allowing for a more definitive keystroke without the need for bottoming out. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches are celebrated for their smooth operation and deep, satisfying "thock" sound that enhances the overall typing experience, aided by a factory-applied lubricant that minimizes friction and maximizes sound quality. For users who enjoy the feel of a tactile response, the Tom switches might be ideal, while those who prefer quiet, seamless keystrokes would likely gravitate towards the Rosewood. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your specific needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Tom Tactile

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Tom and the Akko Rosewood switches showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, leading to contrasting acoustic profiles. The Outemu Tom is characterized by its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's rigidity. This stiffer structure allows for greater resonance and clarity in sound, making it particularly favorable for those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience. Additionally, the Tom's polycarbonate top is translucent, making it compatible with RGB lighting and enhancing the visual appeal when the lights are activated. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more efficiently than polycarbonate, resulting in a more subdued and rounded auditory experience that may be more appealing to users seeking a mellow typing sound.

When examining the bottom housing materials, both the Outemu Tom and the Akko Rosewood utilize nylon. This consistency in the bottom housing material means they share similar acoustic characteristics in this aspect. The nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer composition effectively dampens sound waves, creating a more rounded auditory output. This uniformity suggests that both the Tom and Rosewood will deliver a consistent bottom-out sound and feel, helping to unify the typing experience across both switches despite their differing top housing configurations.

Overall, the divergence in top housing materials results in a notable contrast in the typing experience offered by the Outemu Tom and Akko Rosewood switches. While the acoustics of the Tom are defined by a brighter and more piercing sound, facilitated by its polycarbonate top housing, the Rosewood presents a more subdued auditory experience due to its nylon top. Nonetheless, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience because of their shared nylon bottom housing, which ensures a consistent and fuller sound. Typists may favor one switch over the other depending on their preference for either higher-pitched feedback or a more rounded and dampened response while typing.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force. The Outemu Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option between the two, while the Akko Rosewood features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This can significantly impact user experience; those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming may favor the Rosewood, as it requires less force to actuate. However, the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom is unknown, making it difficult to compare how it feels when pressed all the way down. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is still relatively light. Overall, while the Tom offers a stronger push feel with its higher actuation force, users who appreciate a well-balanced typing experience with lighter resistance may find the Rosewood more appealing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, it's clear that the Tom offers a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Rosewood features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key distinction in user experience: the Tom's shorter travel distance is likely to provide a more responsive feel, ideal for gamers who favor quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Rosewood's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, offering a deeper typing experience that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, if you prefer a quicker response, the Outemu Tom is the better choice, whereas if you value a more pronounced keystroke, the Akko Rosewood is the way to go.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile that stands out in comparison to other switches, making it a bit of an enigma in audio character. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood linear switch produces a deep, satisfying thocky sound that enhances the typing experience dramatically. This auditory satisfaction is partly due to its factory-applied lubricant, which quiets the keystrokes while maintaining a rich tone. While the Tom may not offer distinctive auditory qualities, the Rosewood's sound profile provides a pronounced acoustic experience that many users find appealing.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch tends to lack detailed feedback in its description, leaving its tactile response a bit ambiguous. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood linear switch delivers a smooth, linear action that allows for uninterrupted key presses, providing an overall fluid typing experience without any tactile bump. The lack of a tactile feedback feature in the Rosewood makes it suited for users who prefer a consistent key travel without the interruption often associated with tactile switches. Thus, while the Tom may provide an uncertain tactile feel, the Rosewood offers a clear and enjoyable linear sensation.

In summary, while the Outemu Tom remains a bit of an unknown in sound and feel, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is well-regarded for its deep, satisfying sound and smooth, uninterrupted typing experience. For those leaning towards a tactile switch experience, the Tom might not be the most appealing choice due to its unclear characteristics, whereas the Rosewood offers a definitive and rewarding tactile experience that many find enjoyable. If you're considering switches, the concrete qualities of the Rosewood provide a clearer choice for sound and feel, while the Tom may leave potential users wanting more clarity.

Conclusion

To conclude, your selection between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences regarding sound and feel, as well as the typing experience you seek. If you desire a tactile switch that provides a pronounced feedback with each keystroke, and you prefer the familiarity and responsiveness that tactile switches offer while gaming or typing, then the Outemu Tom might be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for a linear switch that facilitates smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps, coupled with a soft actuation force, the Akko Rosewood is a great option thanks to its light bottom out force and the satisfying thocky sound it produces. Additionally, if you appreciate the added experience of factory lubrication that enhances the sound profile and provides a refined typing feel, the Rosewood's characteristics might resonate more with you. In essence, consider what aspects of typing and sound matter most to you: tactile feedback versus smoothness and sound quality, as each switch caters to different typing experiences.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more