If you just bought an entry-level mechanical keyboard (like a Redragon or E-Yooso), there is a 99% chance it came with Outemu switches. While they are often dismissed by hardcore enthusiasts, Outemu has quietly become the undisputed king of the ultra-budget keyboard market.
The best Outemu switch overall is the , as its light, linear keystroke is perfect for fast-paced gaming. If you prefer tactile feedback for typing, the offers a balanced bump without the obnoxious noise of the .
Whether you are looking to replace a broken key on your budget board or completely change how your keyboard feels for under $15, here are the best Outemu switches available this year.
The “Outemu Socket” Problem Explained
Before you buy replacement switches, you must check your keyboard’s circuit board (PCB).
Many budget keyboards use Outemu-specific hot-swap sockets. These sockets have incredibly narrow pin holes. If you try to plug a premium switch (like a Gateron or Cherry MX) into an Outemu socket, the metal pins will be too thick, and you will bend or break the switch.
If your keyboard has Outemu sockets, you are generally forced to only use Outemu switches (or switches manufactured by Gazzew, which use the same thin pins). (Looking to upgrade your entire board instead? Read our guide to the Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $50).
The 5 Best Standard Outemu Switches
1. Best for Gaming: Outemu Red
The Outemu Red is the most popular switch included in budget gaming keyboards, and for good reason. It is a linear switch, meaning it travels straight down with no tactile bump to slow your fingers down. With a light 45g actuation force, it is incredibly easy to press, allowing you to rapidly double-tap the WASD keys in fast-paced shooters like Valorant or Apex Legends. (Want to see how this compares to premium options? Read our Guide to the Best Linear Switches for Gaming).
2. Best for Typing: Outemu Brown
If you use your PC for homework or coding during the day and gaming at night, linear switches might cause you to make too many typos. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch designed to solve this. It features a small physical “bump” halfway down the keystroke. This bump tells your brain that the keypress was registered, making it a fantastic middle ground that offers the accuracy of a clicky switch without the annoying noise.
3. Best Heavy Switch: Outemu Black
If you have heavy hands, you might find yourself accidentally pressing the spacebar or movement keys when resting your fingers on an Outemu Red switch. The
is the exact same linear mechanism as the Red switch, but it uses a much heavier 60g spring. This means you have to press the key with deliberate, intentional force.4. Best Silent Switch: Outemu Silent Peach
If you stream on Twitch or share a room, mechanical keyboards are often too loud. The Silent Peach is a linear switch that features tiny silicone dampening pads on the stem. These pads absorb the harsh plastic impact of the keystroke, resulting in a whisper-quiet typing experience that rivals switches three times the price.
5. Best Clicky Switch: Outemu Blue
We only recommend the Outemu Blue if you live alone and love the sound of vintage typewriters. It is a clicky switch, meaning it has a tactile bump combined with a sharp, high-pitched “click” mechanism. While it provides incredibly satisfying auditory feedback for solo typists, it is notoriously loud and will quickly annoy anyone else in your Discord call.
Enthusiast Outemu Colors (Orange, Purple, Teal)
If you want to move beyond the basic Red/Blue/Brown options, Outemu offers several niche colors tailored to specific typing preferences:
- Outemu Orange: These tactile switches have a lighter tactile bump compared to Outemu Brown switches and require an actuation force of 62 grams. With a travel distance of 2.2mm, they strike a balance between tactility and smoothness.
- Outemu Purple: Outemu Purple switches are less common but offer a unique experience. They are tactile switches with a heavier actuation force than the Brown switches. This makes them a great option for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback without the loud clicky noise.
- Outemu Teal: Outemu Teal switches are known for their balanced performance, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or tiring for extended use.
Outemu vs. Cherry MX: Which is Better?
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, you might be wondering about the differences between Outemu and the industry standard, Cherry MX.
One of the main differences is their price point. Most mechanical keyboards using Outemu switches are available under the $50 category, while premium Cherry MX switch options typically start from $80 and go upwards.
In terms of acoustics, Outemu switches generally have a louder sound or higher pitch compared to Cherry MX switches. In linear versions, the sound of Outemu is deeper or more metallic, which could be annoying for some users. On the other hand, Cherry MX switches are known for their tighter housing tolerances and better overall sound quality.
(Want to learn more about the mechanics behind these brands? Read our Ultimate Mechanical Keyboard Switches Guide).
Modding Outemu Switches
Modding your Outemu switches is a great way to customize your mechanical keyboard and make it uniquely tailored to your preferences.
- Remove the Switches: Use a switch remover tool to pull the switches from the keyboard’s plate (ensure your keyboard is hot-swappable first).
- Spring Swap: You can easily replace the original spring with one of your choice. If you love the Outemu Red but think it’s too light, you can swap a 60g spring into it.
- Lubrication: Applying a thin layer of keyboard lubricant (like Krytox 205g0) to the switch components, such as the spring, stem, and switch housing, will drastically reduce friction, noise, and wear. This is especially important for Outemu linear switches, which can feel “scratchy” out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Outemu switches hot-swappable?
Outemu switches themselves are compatible with almost any hot-swappable keyboard on the market. However, if your keyboard specifically features “Outemu Hot-Swap Sockets,” you can generally only use Outemu switches, as the metal pins on other brands (like Cherry or Gateron) are too thick to fit into the narrow socket holes.
Are Outemu switches good for gaming?
Yes. While they are considered budget switches, Outemu linear switches (like the Outemu Red or Black) offer a smooth, fast keystroke that is perfectly capable of handling competitive, high-level gaming.
Do Outemu switches wobble?
Yes, compared to premium brands like Cherry or Gateron, Outemu switches have been noted to exhibit slight stem wobble issues. This means the keycap might wiggle slightly when resting your finger on it, though it rarely detracts from the actual typing experience for beginners.
