Outemu Tom vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to compare and contrast are the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The Tom switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is praised for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. While the Tom switch falls under a category of tactile switches, the Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as a 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished' linear switch. Both switches have their unique strengths and qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Tom and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tom includes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a rounder and duller sound profile.
While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, providing similar sound characteristics, the key difference lies in the bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Tom contributes to a different typing experience compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, as the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper sound profile. This contrast in housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of each key press on the switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing in each switch play a role in the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of the switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housings, with the Tom utilizing nylon and the Semi-Silent Linear also using nylon, result in distinct typing experiences. The contrast between the stiffer polycarbonate top housing and the softer nylon bottom housing in each switch contributes to the overall sound and feel of key presses, providing users with unique options for their keyboard setups based on their preferences for sound profiles.
Weight
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Jwick switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Tom switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the Tom switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Jwick switch would be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different levels of force for actuation and bottoming out, providing options for users based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Tom has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. The Tom's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in travel distance.
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 Tom 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 Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its lack of specific sound qualities. In comparison, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as having a subdued and neutral sound profile. This means that while the Tom switch may not have a defined sound characteristic, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter typing experience with its dampened and subtle sound signature, making it suitable for various environments.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Tom switch does not have any specific feel qualities attributed to it. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as offering a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a gentle yet responsive typing feel, with smooth and fluid keystrokes due to the polished finish. The switch also offers a balanced middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch may lack specific sound and feel characteristics, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch stands out for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and smooth typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities, with the Semi-Silent Linear switch offering a more refined and quieter typing experience overall. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, choosing between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a newcomer looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and are not concerned about bottom out force, the Outemu Tom switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and are interested in a semi-silent typing experience that balances quietness with a satisfying clack, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch could be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Tom and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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