Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences and environments. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet spaces such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight for a satisfying keystroke feel without the noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch is known for its clicky sound and does not have a specific environment it is best suited for. Those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feedback may prefer the Aliaz, while users who appreciate the auditory feedback of a clicky switch may lean towards the Outemu Green. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 the Outemu Green switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects. In contrast, the Outemu Green switches have a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz.
In terms of sound profile, the Aliaz switches with polycarbonate housing materials will provide a more resonant and clear sound when typing, attributing to the relatively stiffer plastic used in both the top and bottom housings. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switches with a combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a fuller sound profile. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials allows for distinct sound experiences when typing.
The impact of the housing materials can also be felt in the tactile feedback and typing experience of the switches. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz switches has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound that is produced when releasing the key. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green switches contributes to a softer and more muted feel when bottoming out, with a rounder sound profile overall. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, a significant difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Green's 65 grams, making the Aliaz more responsive to keystrokes. However, both switches have a heavy bottom out force, with the Aliaz requiring 75 grams and the Green needing 80 grams. This means that while the Aliaz may be easier to initially press, both switches provide a satisfyingly firm typing experience once fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding typing force and whether a lighter or heavier switch is preferred for extended use.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of key travel from the top to the bottom. Despite their differences in tactile feedback and sound, in terms of travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience with both switches. It's worth noting that with an equal travel distance, choosing between the two switches will depend more on other factors such as actuation force, sound level, and tactile feel.
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 Green 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 is known for its muted profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes it a great option for those wanting a more discreet keyboard in environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound profile is not specified, but typically clicky switches like the Greens are known for their distinctive clicking sound which can be quite loud.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. This makes for a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, ideal for longer typing sessions. While the specific feel of the Outemu Green switch is not detailed, clicky switches like the Greens often offer a tactile bump and audible feedback with each keystroke.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch would be a great choice. Its smooth and polished feel combined with muted sound make it a popular option for those who prioritize a silent keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a more audible and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Green clicky switch could be the way to go. Keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the most suitable switch for each person's typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you need a quiet option for a shared space like an office, the Aliaz switch with its silent design and smooth keystrokes would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback and don't mind the noise, the Outemu Green clicky switch with its heavier bottom out force might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience or a more tactile feedback with a louder sound.
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