Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Spring Breeze are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Aliaz is a tactile switch known for its quiet design, making it ideal for office settings where noise may be a concern. With a medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz switches provide a satisfying keystroke feel, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. Although there is no specific information provided about its key characteristics, clicky switches are generally known for their audible click sound with each press, appealing to users who enjoy that sensory feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Spring Breeze, it is evident that they have slightly different properties. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze has a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz is more likely to be used for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Furthermore, when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, the differences continue to be apparent. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze adds to a duller and rounder sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deeper sound. These variations in bottom housing material can impact the feel and sound when pressing down on the keys, further differentiating the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, while the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Spring Breeze have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they each bring unique qualities to the table. The properties of polycarbonate and nylon result in distinct sound profiles, with the Aliaz offering a sharper and crisper sound while the Spring Breeze provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, if the top and bottom housings are the same for a switch, such as both being made of polycarbonate, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a heavier touch compared to the Spring Breeze. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze has a lighter touch with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter keystroke for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have distinct characteristics based on their weight, with the Aliaz being heavier and the Spring Breeze being medium-light. This emphasizes the importance of considering weight preferences when choosing between these switches, as lighter options are ideal for extended use while heavier options offer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be the same. This similar travel distance ensures that users will experience a consistent feel and feedback when using either switch. Both switches provide a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and tactility, offering a comfortable typing experience for users. Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Spring Breeze switches are comparable in terms of travel distance, making them suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a switch with a 4 mm 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 Spring Breeze 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 quiet and medium-heavy feel, providing a substantial typing experience with a pronounced feedback without the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have any specific qualities mentioned.
When it comes to sound, the Aliaz switch is described as producing a muted sound, softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches, creating a more serene typing environment. As for the Spring Breeze, there is no information available on its sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, there is no information provided about the feel of the Spring Breeze switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch provides a quiet, substantial typing experience with a muted sound profile and a smooth, polished feel. Without specific information about the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if reliable sources are to be believed, opting for the Aliaz switch may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a heavier, more substantial typing feel with a muted sound, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a clicky feedback and don't mind a bit of noise, the Spring Breeze switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on what will provide you with the most comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
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