A Thorough Introduction to Outemu Switches
So, I suppose that you’re curious about Outemu Switches right now?
You might want to custom your mechanical keyboard, but the price for the legendary Cherry MX is a bit out of reach.
Then, you are thinking of its clones, which share the same design of a cross-shaped peak. And, Outemu switch is the name that pops up in your mind or you have come across it somewhere.
You come into the right place. In this thorough guide, we have everything you need to know about the Outemu switches, from an overall to detailed instructions for each type. Hope this will come in handy for you.
What are Outemu Switches?
After the patent of the Cherry MX switch expired, a lot of Chinese manufacturers jumped right into the potential market, including Gaote Company. This company is located in Guang Dong province, China. Their specialization is electronic products, and Outemu Switch is their attempt at competing in the switch market by offering a very low price.
In the beginning, they released four versions, which were Red, Blue, Brown, and Black. The design tried to mimic Cherry MX as similarly as possible, and a lot of custom keyboard beginners cannot really see the differences. But, of course, in terms of quality, there’s no way the clone switch can compete with the original. There must be a reason for the much lower price.
Right now, they have introduced to the market 12 versions, trying to cover all the needs of users from switch type to actuation force preferences. Besides the duped products from Cherry MX, they also have their distinct switch line, which is Outemu Ice Switch – having a transparent housing cover that is suitable for LED keyboards.
Different types of Outemu switches in their line-up
As we have mentioned, there are 12 versions but in this article, we will only talk in detail about their five most popular products, which are the Outemu Red switch, the Outemu Blue switch, the Outemu Brown switch, the Outemu Black switch, and lastly, the Outemu Silver switch.
In this video, he talks about the four Outemu switches, Red, Blue, Brown, and Black.
Testing Outemu Switches! (osu!)
|
Clicky Switch |
Tactile Switch | Linear Switch |
| Outemu Blue Switch
Outemu Ice Teal Outemu Ice Blue Outemu Click |
Outemu Brown
Outemu Purple Outemu Ice Dustproof Brown Outemu Dark Purple Outemu Grey |
Outemu Red Outemu Black Outemu Ice Silver |
If you’re not familiar with technical terms related to switches, check out this article for a full understanding.
Outemu Switches Lineup Comparison Chart
| Outemu Blue Switches | Outemu Red Switches | Outemu Brown Switches | Outemu Black Switches | Outemu Silver Switches | |
|
Actuation Type |
Clicky | Linear | Tactile | Linear | Linear |
|
Actuation Force |
60 gf | 50 gf | 55 gf | 65 gf | 50 gf |
| Key travel distance | 2.2 mm – 4 mm | 2 mm – 4 mm | 2 mm – 4 mm | 2 mm – 4 mm |
2 mm – 4 mm |
| Sound | Very Loud | Silent | Normal – Low | Normal – Low |
Very Loud |
| Click life | 40 million times | 50 million times | 50 million times | 50 million times |
50 million times |
Outemu Blue Switch
Outemu Blue Switch Specs
|
Actuation Type |
Clicky |
|
Actuation Force |
60 gf |
|
Key travel distance |
2.2 mm – 4 mm |
| Sound |
Very Loud |
| Click life |
40 million times |
The Outemu Blue switch is the best-seller Outemu Switches and also the most similar to Cherry MX in terms of characteristics. As it is a clicky switch, it truly serves its purpose with a loud, clicky sound and a bumpy feeling. Also for that reason, the weight force is on the heavy side at 60 gf, and the trigger point is slightly higher than other switches at 2.2 mm.
Sometimes, the key won’t respond if you click slowly or lightly. And, the longevity of the Outemu Blue switch, due to the clicky design, is shorter than other switches in line. That also affects durability. Therefore, you should keep this in mind if you want to purchase the Outemu clicky switch.
Typing and Gaming
It is suitable for typing. Furthermore, the clicky sound and the heavyweight help to prevent mistyping, because you need more focus on each key to register it right.
However, we do not recommend the Outemu clicky switches for gaming. The required focus can slow down your typing speed, therefore, it could ruin your gaming experience.
Outemu Blue Sound Test
Outemu clicky switches are very loud with each ‘click, click, click’ typed down. This could distract or annoy people around you so it is not appropriate for the workplace or public places.
Check out the Outemu clicky switches’ loud noise in the video below.
Outemu Blue vs. Cherry MX Blue
The Outemu Blue switch compared to the Cherry MX Blue is higher pitch and scratchier. Also, the durability and stability are nowhere near the original. So, even though the Outemu clicky switches are still very good, if you are not tight on the budget, we advise you to invest a little more for Cherry MX Blue.
Outemu Brown Switch
Outemu Brown Switch Specs
| Outemu Brown Switches | |
|
Actuation Type |
Tactile |
|
Actuation Force |
55 gf |
| Key travel distance |
2 mm – 4 mm |
| Sound |
Normal – Low |
| Click life |
50 million times |
This is the second best-sellers among the Outemu switches. People who do not enjoy the loud noise of Outemu Blue and the light resistance of Outemu Red may like the Outemu Brown switch.
The bumpy response of the Outemu Brown is almost precise, therefore, very enjoyable. In addition, it is a very smooth tactile switch that some even think is smoother than the Cherry MX Brown. The amount of actuation weight is right for almost everybody, but it can be somewhat a little bit heavy for those who have light hands.
Typing and Gaming
A precise tactile that is enjoyably smooth. This means, that Outemu Brown switches are very suitable for typing and also, gaming. The nature of tactile makes it hard for us to type wrong. Moreover, the weight is required a little more force, making it definitely a go for most typists and gamers.
Outemu Brown Sound Test
The sound is deep, not noisy. It is noticeable with a quite distinct sound.
You could listen to the distinct sound yourself in the video below, which tests out the sound in both lubed and unlubed keyboards.
Outemu Brown vs. Cherry MX Brown
The Outemu Brown switches are smoother than the Cherry MX Brown ones. However, it has the same problems as other Outemu switches, which is wobble and slightly unstable. The sound is louder than Cherry, but this could be a merit for some people.
Outemu has a much lower price than Cherry MX, so we think the problems are not that considerable. Therefore, Outemu Brown switches are a good-to-go option.
Outemu Red Switch
Outemu Red Switch Specs
| Outemu Red Switches | |
|
Actuation Type |
Linear |
|
Actuation Force |
50 gf |
| Key travel distance |
2 mm – 4 mm |
| Sound |
Silent |
| Click life |
50 million times |
The Outemu Red Switches are very close to the Cherry MX Red. As a linear switch, the Outemu Red is really smooth and almost soundless. It does not bottom out like the tactile type, and the actuation force is in the middle level, not too heavy and not too light. That makes it suitable for almost everyone in terms of weight feelings.
Outemu Red Mechanical Switch
Typing and Gaming
For people who are not used to linear typing, we do not recommend the Outemu Red switches because the lack of sound and bumpy feedback can lead to a lot of mistypes.
But, it is undeniably great for gamers, especially those who are into fast-paced games. The Outemu Red switches allow people to move fast with their fingers, resulting in more focus on other aspects of the game.
Outemu Red Sound Test
This is a silent switch. So, the Outemu Red Switches are very suitable for people working in a shared environment.
Check out how silent the switches are in this video.
Outemu Red vs. Cherry MX Red switch
In terms of smoothness, the Outemu Red Switches win by a small margin, even though it’s supposed to perform the same as the Cherry MX Red. It is also a little bit heavier, 50gf compared to 45gf of the Cherry MX Red. But, this is not noticeable unless you are a very sensitive person.
The disadvantage is that the Outemu Red Switch is shaky at the bottom. However, after comparing the two prices, I think Outemu is still worth a try.
Outemu Black switch
Outemu Black Switch Specs
| Outemu Black Switch | |
|
Actuation Type |
Linear |
|
Actuation Force |
65 gf |
| Key travel distance |
2 mm – 4 mm |
| Sound |
Normal – Low |
| Click life |
50 million times |
In one sentence, the Outemu Black switch is a heavy linear fast-response and low- sound switch. We have a thorough guide to this switch right here (insert link: The Beginner’s Guide to Outemu Black switches), which covers every aspect of the Outemu Black in detail and also our recommendation.
Typing and Gaming
At 65 gf weight force, the Outemu Black switch will be loved by heavy-hand typers. The linear characteristic allows users to move fast between keystrokes. And, the sound is loud enough so that you can realize whether you register the key fully. So, it is recommended to be used in certain positions on the keyboard that you want to prevent mistyping.
Not only nice for typing but also really enjoyable for gaming. Every characteristic of the switch is carefully designed with gamers in mind. The 65gf means that the bounce-back rate of the keystroke is higher, so you can re-type the key more quickly than usual. This is a plus point that people who play games can understand.
Now, you may understand why, when it comes to switches for gamers, the mechanical keyboard lovers usually nominate the Outemu Black switches.
Outemu Black Sound Test
The sound is clear, but not loud in our opinion. This makes it perfect to work in the office as it won’t disturb other people. You can check out its sound, both with unlubing switches and with lubing switches, in the video right here.
Outemu Black vs. Cherry MX Black switch
An obvious difference between Outemu Black switches and Cherry MX Black switches is that the former requires more force than the latter. And, this is really based on personal preferences.
Unlike any other switch under the Outemu brand, the Black switch is wobble reduction. Hence, we suggest that saving a little bit of money on the Outemu Black switches is not a bad idea.
Outemu Silver Switch – The better version of Outemu Black
Outemu Silver Specs
| Outemu Silver Switches | |
|
Actuation Type |
Linear |
|
Actuation Force |
50 gf |
| Key travel distance |
2 mm – 4 mm |
| Sound |
Very Loud |
| Click life |
50 million keystrokes |
The Outemu Silver switches are believed to be an upgrade version of Outemu Black Switch. It is a linear switch so you could believe in its smoothness. According to the company, compared to Outemu Black, they shortened the trigger stroke and reduce the spring’s weight. The weight force now is 50gf, the same as the Outemu Red Linear switch, but the spring is heavier in feeling than that of the Red switches.
Typing and Gaming
The response time decreased, and the weight is reduced. Therefore, you could type for a long time with less tiredness. The purpose of the upgraded Silver line is to enhance users’ experience in typing.
Due to the keypress being more sensitive and less heavy, we believe gamers will love the switches. Another plus point is its tight housing, making it more stable so you won’t feel shaky with every stroke.
Outemu Silver Sound Test
The sound is said to be somewhere between clacky and thocky. Even though it is loud, you can reduce the noise by lubing.
This video below will help you get to know the real sound of Outemu Silver switches on Tecware Phantom TKL.
Outemu Switches Pros and Cons
|
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
|
When we compare the Outemu switch to Cherry or Gateron, it is clearly not durable like the other two and half a life-span as Cherry MX. Moreover, the design is not that precise at the bottom, which leaves some space. That results in a somewhat unstable feeling when pressing down the keys. Lastly, it is quite scratchy. The off-center keypresses are even scratchier.
But, if we look at the good side, we cannot deny the truly high quality those switches offer at that low price. Moreover, they are now offering 12 different version switches to a wide range of customers’ preferences.
If you are into heavy linear, they have the Outemu Black switch. If you enjoy the linear type but not heavy force, go for Outemu Silver or Outemu Red. You like a butterfly smooth tactile switch? Then, there is Outemu Brown for you. And, so on.
The housing of the Outemu switch is made with polycarbonate, making the switch compatible with the LED effects. They also have the ICE line that is specialized for LED keyboards thanks to transparent housing. And, they also have a new dust-proof line.
So, if you ask us ‘are Outemu switches good?’, we will answer ‘yes yes yes’ right away.
Which is the Best Outemu Switch for you?
| Linear | Tactile | Clicky | Normal – Loud | Low – Silent | Not heavy | Heavy | |
|
Outemu Blue |
✔ | Very Loud | ✔ | ||||
|
Outemu Red |
✔ | Silent | ✔ | ||||
| Outemu Brown | ✔ |
✔ |
|||||
| Outemu Black | ✔ | Low |
✔ |
||||
| Outemu Silver | ✔ | Very Loud | ✔ |
You could get a general idea with the above table, now let’s find out which one will be right for you in terms of typing and gaming.
Best Outemu Switch For Gaming
The first one is definitely the Outemu Black switch. With that much praise we had for it, there is nothing more to say about its awesomeness for the gaming experience. Or, you could choose its enhanced version, the Outemu Silver switch, if the heavy force is not your cup of tea.
Then, if you prefer tactile to linear, why don’t you check out the Outemu Brown switch. Its extreme smoothness and noticeably bumpy response may satisfy you.
Best Outemu Switch For Typing
The silent Outemu Red switch will be perfect for working in the office. It’s smooth. It’s not noisy at all. It’s also not heavy so you can type for a long time without tiring your hands.
In case a ‘click, click, click’ fun sound is what makes you happy, the Outemu Blue switch will be definitely a go. Moreover, that ‘click, click, click’ sound could help you reduce mistakes when typing. Well, there is a reason why it becomes a best seller of Outemu and even some say that it is Outemu’s best option.
Find a switch that is suitable for both gaming and typing? … We excitedly shout out to you the honorable Outemu Brown switches. The sound is clear and the feedback is bouncy so you can know where exactly you are on the keyboard. Moreover, it is so smooth for a tactile switch that makes it perfect for dancing with your fingertips.
Favorite Mechanical Keyboards with Outemu Switches
We suggest you check out those keyboards. They have good reviews from the keyboard fans.
VicTsing Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Special features:
- Outemu Blue switches
- RGB backlit features with 16.8 million color options and adjustable brightness.
- 96-key rollover
- Durability with a 50-million-keystroke life span
Motospeed CK101 Mechanical RGB Keyboard
Special features:
- Outemu Blue and Outemu Red switches
- 14 lighting effect combination
- Backlight design
- Full N-key rollover
- Fast response
Redragon K552 Kumara
Special features:
- Outemu Red switches
- Customize RGB lighting
- Full N-key rollover
- Affordable price
Redragon K582 SURARA RGB LED Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Special features:
- Outemu Red switches or Outemu Blue switches
- 6 backlit themes and 18 backlit models
- N-key rollover
- Durability with a solid base
- Wide compatibility
T-Dagger Bora TGK-313 Ice Blue Mechanical Keyboard
Special features:
- Outemu Blue switches
- Full key non-conflict
- Durability with 50 million keystrokes
Are Outemu Switches better than Cherry?
‘Are Outemu Switches good?’ Yes, they are. ‘Are they better than Cherry MX?’ No, they are not. They are not better than the original. Cherry MX is up to 100 million activations while the Outemu Switch is half of that, 50 millions. In addition, the design of Outemu switches is not as stable as Cherry MX, resulting in complaints of being shaky and scratchy. And, some of the Outemu switches produce louder and noisier sounds than their Cherry MX peers.
If you are interested in the original Cherry MX, or we say, the grandfather of all, you may want to read this article ‘Cherry MX Switches: A Complete Color review’ for a full view.
But, if you compare the prices, the Outemu switches are much much cheaper. With that in mind, its quality is indeed awesome. Some of the minor points like shakiness and loudness can also be reduced by lubing.
Besides, for the Brown line, some say that the Outemu performs better.
Are Outemu Switches better than Gateron?
Gateron and Outemu are both popular clones of Cherry MX. However, people hold Gateron switches in ‘higher’ regard. That is because the Gateron switches are more durable than Outemu switches and their linear line is even smoother than Cherry MX.
We also have a full comparison between Outemu and Gateron Switches if you would like to learn more about them.
Gateron’s price is a little bit higher than Outemu’s. So, if you can invest a little more, we think that Gateron is worth considering.
FAQs
Do Cherry MX Keycaps fit on Outemu Switches?
Yes, they do, as Outemu Switches’ design is based on the Cherry MX. However, you should check on the specific version so the keycaps can fit well without problems.
Can I replace Outemu with Cherry?
Yes, you can. But, we advise you to check the pin, mount, and compatibility carefully before making the final decision.
Do Razer keycaps work on Outemu switches?
Because the Razer keycaps are compatible with Cherry MX. Hence, those can work on Ouetemu switches, which are dupes of Cherry MX.
What should I choose between Outemu Red and Outemu Brown switches?
They are both providing a smooth typing experience with light force. However, Outemu Red Switches are silent linear switches, whereas Outemu Brown ones have a clear sound that goes with a tactile bumpy feeling. So, you should choose based on your preferences of sound and typing feedback.
Final Thoughts
In terms of durability and quality, Outemu switches are not as good as Cherry MX or Gateron. However, given the price is a very small number, Outemu is the most similar to the other two brands in terms of quality. It is, for sure, way better than other switches at the same price range on the market.
So, for your wallet and for your keyboard, we highly recommend you to have a try at the Outemu switches if you think its offerings meet your needs.
