Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, stand out with their unique features. The Gateron Mini i switches offer a gentle tactility in each keystroke, providing a satisfying feedback without sacrificing a quiet typing experience. Ideal for office settings, these switches are lightweight and bouncy, making them easy to press for long hours of comfortable typing. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switches are known for their clicky sound profile, adding an auditory element to typing that some users find satisfying. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Blue switches lies in the material used for the top housing. The Mini i features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Blue switches have a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The Mini i's nylon top housing gives a more muted and rounded sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Mini i and the Blue switches utilize nylon material. This means that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the distinct differences in their top housing material still result in varied sound profiles. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, maintaining consistency in their sound experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Blue switches play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound experience, their contrasting top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Mini i's nylon top housing provides a more muted and rounded sound, whereas the Blue's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance can help users choose the ideal switch for their preferences and typing needs.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams while the Blue's force is unknown. This means that the Mini i has a consistent force requirement throughout the keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between them.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who require fast input speeds. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue provides a deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Mini i being on the shorter end, and the Blue on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments, including offices where a quieter typing experience is preferred. This switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not provided. However, based on the qualities described for the Gateron Mini i switch, it can be inferred that the Outemu Blue switch may offer a more pronounced and clicky sound with a potentially more tactile and sharp feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is best suited for those seeking a subtle and gentle typing experience with a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for office and shared spaces. The switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, enhancing the overall typing comfort and efficiency. On the other hand, the qualities of the Outemu Blue clicky switch remain unknown in this comparison. If one desires a similar experience to the Gateron Mini i switch but with a potentially more tactile and clicky feel, the Outemu Blue switch could be worth investigating further. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch that provides a subtle and quiet typing experience suitable for office settings or shared spaces, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch with its light actuation force and gentle tactility is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a clicky and tactile feedback without concern for noise levels, the Outemu Blue switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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