Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Silent Green mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Yellow is well-known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch is praised for its smoothness and clackiness, making it a popular choice for those looking for a refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green does not have any standout features mentioned. While the Ink Yellow is categorized as neutral, clacky, mild, polished, the Silent Green does not have any specific descriptions attached to it. If you are looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Gateron Ink Yellow may 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
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Silent Green, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Green switches utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced combination of qualities throughout the key press.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the aesthetics of their housing materials. The Ink Yellow's INK blend top housing may not be as visually appealing as the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Green, which offers a clear and translucent design ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. However, in terms of sound profile, both switches provide a similar thin and higher-pitched sound thanks to the unique characteristics of their respective housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of visual aesthetics and sound characteristics.
In terms of functionality, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch when pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Silent Green ensures a harmonious blend of qualities throughout the key press, offering a satisfying tactile and auditory experience for users. Whether one prefers the clacky sound of the INK blend in the Ink Yellow or the crisp sound of polycarbonate in the Silent Green, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Green is lighter in both aspects. The Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Silent Green has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Green would be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Ink Yellow may offer a better option due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Silent Green has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, as shorter travel distances are preferred for quick key presses. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green may cater to those who prefer a deeper and more significant keypress feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, with the Gateron Ink Yellow providing a shorter distance and the Outemu Silent Green offering a longer distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
The Outemu Silent Green 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 Ink Yellow linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The switch also offers a satisfying clackiness that adds a pleasant auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is praised for its mild typing experience, providing a gentle touch that is comfortable for most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined keystroke that reduces friction and promotes seamless key travel. Conversely, details regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch are not provided, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches are linear, which suggests that they may offer similar smooth keystrokes.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch stands out for its moderate actuation force requirement, pleasant smoothness, and clackiness, making it a versatile option for those seeking a balanced typing experience. While specific information on the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is limited, it is essential to consider individual preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a smoother and clackier typing experience reminiscent of a laptop keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-actuation force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Green could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and how you intend to use the keyboard.
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