Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch, it becomes clear that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Crystal switch is well-known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a distinct linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offers a reimagined travel distance and factory lubing techniques for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While both switches have their strengths, such as the Crystal's unique typing experience and the Type A's innovative design, diving deeper into their features and performance will help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Type A switches differ in terms of the top and bottom components. The Crystal uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate in the Crystal emphasizes clarity and sharpness, while the nylon in the Type A emphasizes depth and fullness.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Type A again showcase differences in their material choices. The Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing a sharp, crisp sound profile similar to its top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound experience. On the other hand, the Type A utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a more absorbent and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon in the bottom housing. Despite these differences, both housings contribute significantly to the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the sound and typing experience. While the Crystal and Type A differ in their use of polycarbonate and nylon for both top and bottom housings, they each offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and sharpness, creating a crisper sound profile, while the Type A's nylon housing prioritizes depth and fullness, resulting in a deeper sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, making them suitable choices for individuals with varied preferences in switch sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch are quite similar, with the Crystal being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them equally medium-light in terms of typing feel. The lighter actuation force of the Crystal may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Type A may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the choice between them likely coming down to personal preference in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide the same tactile experience when pressing down on a key, as you will feel the key travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer identical results. The only difference may lie in other factors such as actuation force or key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, providing a unique typing experience with a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile you are seeking for your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is praised for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch. However, based on the description of its factory lubing techniques and medium-weight feel, it can be assumed that the Type A switch may also provide a smooth and comfortable typing feel similar to the Crystal switch.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Crystal switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished and refined feel, while the Type A switch offers a neutral and subdued sound with potentially similar smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a unique, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a bit of chirpiness or high-pitched tones, the Crystal may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound profile and a more subdued or neutral sound, the Type A could be the better option. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, so your decision ultimately comes down to personal preference in feel and sound. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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