Product details

Outemu Crystal Linear Switch - Premium Transparent RGB Linear
RGB Optimized Linear

Outemu Crystal Linear Switch

Premium transparent linear switch engineered for maximum RGB diffusion with smooth 45g actuation. Features full-clear housing optimized for vibrant lighting effects, factory lubrication, and reliable linear travel ideal for both gaming and typing in illuminated builds.

The Outemu Crystal Linear Switch represents a focused approach to RGB mechanical switches—combining transparent housing construction with smooth linear performance at an accessible price point. Manufactured by Dongguan Gaote Electronics (Outemu), this switch prioritizes lighting aesthetics without compromising the fundamental typing experience.

Built with fully transparent polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the Crystal switch allows RGB LEDs to shine through unobstructed, creating vivid lighting effects across the entire switch body. The light 45g actuation force and full 4.0mm travel provide effortless keypresses suitable for rapid gaming inputs or extended typing sessions. Factory lubrication ensures smooth linear travel out of the box, while the single-stage spring delivers consistent resistance throughout the keystroke. With plate-mount 3-pin design and Cherry MX stem compatibility, the Crystal switch integrates seamlessly into most custom keyboard builds where RGB illumination is a priority.

Technical Specifications

Switch Type
Linear
Actuation Force
45±10gf
Total Travel
4.0mm
Pre-Travel
2.0±0.6mm
Mount Type
Plate Mount (3-Pin)
Top Housing
Transparent PC
Bottom Housing
Transparent PC
Stem Material
POM
Spring Type
Single-Stage
Factory Lubrication
Yes (Light)
LED Support
SMD RGB Compatible
Lifespan
50 Million Cycles

Key Features

Full Transparent Housing
Both top and bottom housings constructed from crystal-clear polycarbonate allow RGB LEDs to illuminate the entire switch body. This creates vibrant, evenly distributed lighting effects that showcase per-key RGB to its fullest potential—ideal for builds where aesthetics are as important as performance.
Light 45g Linear Action
Gentle 45g actuation force (±10g tolerance) provides effortless keypresses with minimal finger fatigue. The smooth linear travel requires no additional resistance to overcome, making rapid inputs feel natural whether gaming or typing at speed. The ±10g tolerance means switches may vary between 35-55g.
Factory Pre-Lubricated
Light factory lubrication applied to rails and spring reduces scratchiness out of the box. While not as extensively lubed as premium switches, this provides acceptable smoothness for budget builds. Enthusiasts can add additional lubrication for even smoother performance.
Cherry MX Compatible
Standard Cherry MX stem design ensures compatibility with the vast majority of aftermarket keycap sets. Plate-mount 3-pin construction fits PCBs that support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, though PCB-mount stability requires PCB support or additional modifications.
SMD RGB Optimized
Designed specifically for SMD (surface-mount) RGB LEDs commonly found on modern mechanical keyboard PCBs. The transparent construction maximizes light transmission, allowing per-key RGB to shine brightly through keycaps and create impressive lighting displays.
Budget-Friendly Performance
Delivers reliable linear performance and excellent RGB aesthetics at an accessible price point. Perfect for first-time builders, experimental projects, or anyone building an RGB-focused keyboard without premium switch costs. Acceptable quality-to-price ratio for most users.

Performance & Sound Profile

Smooth Linear Travel
The Crystal switch provides consistent linear motion from initial contact through full compression. Factory lubrication helps reduce friction, though some users report minor scratchiness on slower keypresses—typical for budget-tier switches. On-center presses feel smoothest, with slight wobble possible on off-center actuation.
Light Weighting Characteristics
The 45g actuation makes for effortless typing but may lead to accidental key presses if you rest fingers on keys. Best suited for touch typists with deliberate keystrokes or gamers who prefer rapid, light inputs. Heavier-handed typists may find the light weighting too sensitive.
Sound Profile
Polycarbonate housing creates higher-pitched acoustics compared to nylon or ABS alternatives. Expect moderate sound levels with a crisp top-out and clean bottom-out—not silent, but not excessively loud. Actual sound heavily depends on keyboard case, plate material, mounting style, and keycap choice.
RGB Brilliance
Where the Crystal truly excels is RGB performance. The fully transparent housing allows vibrant, evenly distributed lighting that makes per-key RGB effects stand out dramatically. Colors appear vivid and true-to-life, with minimal light blocking or color distortion through the clear materials.

Available Pack Sizes

10-Switch Packs: Sold in convenient 10-switch packs, ideal for testing switches before committing to a full keyboard build, replacing damaged switches, or purchasing exact quantities needed for specific keyboard layouts. Multiple packs can be ordered for complete keyboard builds (60% = 61 keys, 65% = 68 keys, TKL = 87 keys, Full-size = 104+ keys).

Ideal For

RGB Enthusiast Builds: Perfect for custom keyboards where RGB lighting is a central feature—the transparent housing maximizes LED brilliance and creates stunning per-key lighting effects.

Budget Builders: Excellent choice for first custom keyboard builds or experimental projects where premium switch costs aren't justified. Delivers solid linear performance at an accessible price point.

Light Linear Preference: Ideal for users who prefer effortless 45g actuation—gamers seeking rapid inputs or typists who type with light finger pressure and minimal force.

Gaming Setups: Light actuation and smooth linear travel work well for gaming applications requiring fast, repeated keystrokes without tactile resistance slowing down inputs.

Switch Testing: 10-switch packs allow affordable testing of transparent linear switches before purchasing premium RGB-optimized alternatives like Gateron Milky Yellow Pro or Akko Crystal variants.

Got questions? 🤔

Do you have any questions, or unsure if this product is compatible with your setup?

Specifications

• Switch type: Linear
• Actuation force: 45g
• Travel: Standard linear travel
• Mount: 5-pin PCB mount
• Stem: MX-style cross stem
• Housing: Clear crystal transparent housing
• Pre-lubed: Factory lubed for smooth action
• Sound profile: Clean and soft
• Pack size: 10 switches

Inside the box

• 10 × Outemu Crystal Linear Clear switches
• Protective packaging

Compatibility

• Compatible with MX-style mechanical keyboards and PCBs
• Works with hot-swap and solder-mount designs supporting 5-pin switches
• Suitable for gaming, custom builds, and everyday typing
• Fits 60%, 65%, TKL, full-size, and other standard layouts

Warranty

1 year manufacturer’s warranty – further warranty provided at OZO’s discretion depending on the situation