Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, we can see some key differences. The Aliaz switches are designed for quiet environments and provide a medium-heavy weight to each keystroke, offering a substantial feel and pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switches do not have a specific standout feature mentioned. While the Aliaz switches may be more suitable for office environments due to their silent design, the Crystal Brown switches may appeal to those looking for a more standard tactile typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear housing of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switches have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
The choice of housing material in switches can significantly impact the typing experience. While both the Aliaz and Crystal Brown switches have unique qualities to offer, the housing materials play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound, particularly when releasing a key. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing in the Crystal Brown switches enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housings in both switches provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Crystal Brown switches offers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who prefer a softer and rounder typing feel. While both switches may have similar top housings, the difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz switch is heavier in both aspects. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of force for actuation and 75 grams for bottom out, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Both switches offer a tactile feedback that many users appreciate, but the weight of the force required sets them apart in terms of the typing experience they deliver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you'll experience the same distance travelled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect consistent results in their typing experience regardless of which switch they choose to use. Overall, the travel distance of both the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches is the same, providing users with a comparable typing experience.
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 Crystal 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
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for being tailored for quiet environments, providing a medium-heavy weight that offers a substantial feel to each keystroke. It is described as producing a muted sound, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the Aliaz is known for its silky and polished attributes, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, information is unavailable for the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. Therefore, it is recommended that those interested in a quieter typing experience with a substantial feel consider the Gateron Aliaz switch based on the available information. Similar results may be achieved with the Crystal Brown switch if it aligns with preferences for a medium-heavy weight and silent design. Ultimately, both switches offer tactile feedback and may suit different user preferences based on sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it really depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a heavier keystroke with a more pronounced typing feedback and prefer a quieter option for office or shared spaces, then the Aliaz switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke and are not as concerned about noise levels, the Crystal Brown switch with its medium-light bottom out force might be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch as well to determine which one aligns more closely with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options, so it's all about finding the one that best suits your typing style and environment.
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