Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Aliaz switch is designed for quiet environments such as offices, offering a medium-heavy weight for a substantial typing feel while remaining silent. On the other hand, the Silent White switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but falls under the linear switch category. If you prefer a more muted and polished typing experience, the Aliaz switch might be the better choice for you. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Silent White both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing in creating a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Silent White features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature.
In terms of sound quality and feel, the choice of housing material for the bottom of the switch plays a significant role. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Outemu Silent White creates a more muted and rounded sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Gateron Aliaz. When typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to a clearer and more resonant typing sound. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Silent White differ in material, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their unique housing compositions. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches ensures a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound experience, with the nylon bottom housing of the Silent White offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing, providing users with a personalized tactile experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent White offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods. The Aliaz is heavier overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Silent White is lighter and ideal for users who value longer typing sessions with less strain. This difference in weight helps cater to different preferences, with the Aliaz offering a heavier typing experience and the Silent White providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is clear that the Silent White has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Aliaz's 4 mm. The Aliaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Gamers may prefer the Silent White for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more robust and tactile experience may opt for the Aliaz. Both switches offer differing experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to individual preferences for keyboard 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 Silent White 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 its medium-heavy weight and substantial feel, providing a pronounced typing feedback without the noise, making it suitable for quiet environments like the office. The switch offers a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes compared to regular mechanical switches. Additionally, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch does not have specific descriptions available for its sound or feel. However, as a silent switch, it is designed to minimize noise and provide a quiet typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Silent White switch are unknown, it can be inferred that it may offer a smoother and quieter typing experience, similar to other silent switches on the market.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best suited for those seeking a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and pronounced feedback. The switch's muted sound profile combined with its silky and polished feel offers a smooth and refined typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Silent White linear switch likely provides a similar quiet typing experience, making it a suitable choice for users looking for a silent switch option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight, feedback, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, you should choose the Aliaz if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a substantial feel to each keystroke. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments like the office and provide a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, you should opt for the Silent White if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a silent typing experience. The Silent White switches offer a smooth and quiet typing experience, making them suitable for situations where noise is a concern. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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