Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, certain differences and similarities become apparent. The Aliaz switch stands out for its suitability in quiet environments, such as an office setting, due to its silent design. With a medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz switch offers a substantial feel with each keystroke, making it ideal for users who value a pronounced typing feedback without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch does not have a specific highlighted feature. Despite this, it is a tactile switch. 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
60g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. However, the bottom housing of the Aliaz switch is also made of polycarbonate, while the Outemu Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Brown switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aliaz, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
While both the Aliaz and Outemu Brown switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Brown creates a more rounded and dulled sound profile. This split in housing materials means that each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound produced when pressing down on a key.
In terms of sound and feel, the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Brown switches exhibit distinct characteristics due to their housing materials. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that create a clear and resonant sound profile, the difference in bottom housings results in varying levels of impact on the overall typing experience. The use of nylon in the Outemu Brown switch's bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz maintains a sharper and more defined sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound profile and typing feel that the user prefers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Aliaz is the heavier option. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier switch overall. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a lighter option in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Outemu Brown may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the heavier Gateron Aliaz would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Brown tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from top to bottom. Consequently, users can expect consistent feedback and tactile response from both switches. As a result, the typing experience with either switch will feel familiar and comfortable, making it a matter of personal preference rather than a significant difference in travel distance. Despite this, the comparison of the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Brown switches demonstrates that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Outemu Brown 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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch stands out for its muted characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for quiet environments like the office. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Brown tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is praised for its silky and polished characteristics, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These qualities result in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a comfortable typing feel. On the contrary, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Brown switch.
Considering the information provided, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in offering a quiet and substantial typing experience with its muted sound and smooth feel. While the exact qualities of the Outemu Brown switch are not specified, it is important to consider personal preferences and the overall typing experience desired when choosing between the two. Ultimately, both switches are tactile switches and may offer similar results in terms of typing feedback and tactile response.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you require a quieter typing experience in a setting like an office, the Aliaz switch with its muted sound and substantial feel might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a different tactile feel, the Outemu Brown switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feedback, sound, and overall typing experience. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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