Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Red, a linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz is ideal for quiet environments such as offices, with its silent design and medium-heavy weight that gives a satisfying feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Red offers a smooth keystroke experience without any tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for gamers and fast typists. While the Aliaz is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished', the Red lacks a specific category. These general pointers provide an overview, 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
46g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
While both the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Red switches have polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housings. The Aliaz has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Red features a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can result in distinct typing experiences for users, with the Aliaz providing a crisper sound upon pressing a key, while the Red offers a more rounded sound upon release.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Aliaz and the Red switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. However, while the Aliaz maintains the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings for consistency in sound profile, the Red switch's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a more nuanced typing experience with a mix of sharp and dull sound characteristics.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Red switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities based on the materials used in their housing components, with the Aliaz emphasizing a clear and resonant sound and the Red focusing on a deeper and fuller sound. However, if you prioritize RGB lighting and a consistent sound profile, the Aliaz may be the better option, whereas those who prefer a mix of sharp and dull sounds may lean towards the Red switch.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Red linear switch. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of force to actuate a key and 75 grams to bottom out, while the Red only needs 46 grams to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out. This makes the Outemu Red switch the lighter option, ideal for those who prefer a feather-light touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Aliaz switch is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same level of travel distance. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches provides a consistent typing experience for users, ensuring that whether they are using the Gateron Aliaz or the Outemu Red, they will receive similar tactile feedback and key travel. Overall, the travel distance of both switches allows for smooth and satisfying keystrokes, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Red 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 switch is known for its muted characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to more traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Red linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These qualities contribute to reduced friction and a sleek key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Red switch are not available. If one enjoys a smooth and polished typing experience, the Aliaz switch would likely provide similar results.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in providing a quiet and medium-heavy typing experience with a substantial feel, thanks to its muted sound and silky, polished feel. While information on the Outemu Red linear switch is limited, individuals looking for a smooth and refined typing experience may find similarities with the Aliaz switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should choose the Aliaz if you prioritize a quieter typing experience in a medium-heavy switch with a substantial feel. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments like the office and offer a smooth and polished typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a linear switch without any specific sound or feel preferences, the Outemu Red switch may be the better option for you. Consider your typing preferences and environment when selecting between these two switches to ensure you have the best typing experience for your needs.
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