Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Crystal is a linear switch that boasts a unique, elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a distinct typing experience. Additionally, it offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a silenced version of the Ink Black switch, designed for environments that require less noise. It provides a cushion-like bottom-out feel along with minimal audio feedback. Both switches fall under the 'Polished' category. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in terms of their composition. The Crystal switch utilizes a polycarbonate material for both its top and bottom housings, while the Silent Ink Black employs Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. However, despite these variations, both switches share a similar goal of producing a sharp and higher-pitched sound profile.
In terms of the top housing, the Crystal's polycarbonate material offers the advantage of being translucent, making it particularly suitable for those who plan to use RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing aesthetic with vibrant and customizable lighting effects. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend top housing offers a slightly different sound profile. It provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. While both materials contribute to a sharp and distinctive sound, their specific characteristics add subtle differences to the overall typing experience.
Moving to the bottom housing, both switches utilize their respective materials to create a clear and resonant sound profile. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal switch, being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when bottoming out. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend bottom housing adds to the overall sound experience, providing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. Regardless of the specific material used, it is clear that both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying and distinct sound when typing.
In summary, while the specific materials used in the housing of the Outemu Crystal and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches may differ, they ultimately serve the same purpose of enhancing the sound profile of the switches. Whether it's the clarity and resonance offered by the polycarbonate housing of the Crystal, or the satisfying and clacky nature of the INK blend housing of the Silent Ink Black, both switches aim to provide a sharp and higher-pitched sound. Whether you prioritize the visual appeal of translucent polycarbonate or prefer the distinct clackiness of the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer a unique typing experience that will cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are distinct differences in weight. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Crystal switch would be a suitable choice as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, if a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience are desired, the Silent Ink Black switch offers a heavier force for a satisfying keystroke.
It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces may differ between these switches, the overall function and responsiveness remain similar. Both switches provide a reliable and responsive typing experience, and the distinction in weight allows for personal preference when it comes to individual typing style and typing endurance.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience a consistent distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback during keystrokes, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. With their equal travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and responsiveness. Whether you choose the Outemu Crystal or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, you can be confident in enjoying a smooth and consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Crystal switch is described as having a relatively neutral sound profile, with no specific additional descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is described as producing a muted sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This means that the Silent Ink Black switch is designed to minimize noise, making it a great choice for environments that require quieter typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Crystal switch is described as having a fairly elastic type feel with a medium-light weight. This combination results in a unique and linear typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The Silent Ink Black switch is also described as polished, indicating a similar smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Outemu Crystal and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a neutral sound profile and a unique, linear typing experience with a fairly elastic feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch offers a muted sound profile, making it ideal for quieter environments, and a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. While they have their differences, it is important to remember that individual preferences may vary, and factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used can affect the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice. These switches provide a fairly elastic feel and have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments. Additionally, if you prefer a chirpy or high-pitched sound when typing, the Crystal switches offer these unique acoustic signatures.
On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience, especially in noise-sensitive environments, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. They produce a muted sound that is softer and quieter than regular mechanical switches, making them ideal for those who want to minimize noise.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, the Silky feel of the Silent Ink Black switches may be more appealing to you.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches depends on your specific preferences and needs. Consider factors such as sound, weight, and feel to determine which switch will provide you with the best typing experience.
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