Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron Mini i and Outemu Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the category of tactile switches providing a satisfying bump with each keypress. The Gateron Mini i is praised for its subtle tactility, quiet sound profile, and lightweight feel, making it an excellent choice for office environments where a professional and muted typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown offers a tactile response without any specific standout features mentioned, but is known for its reliability and affordability. If you prioritize a gentle typing experience with minimal noise, the Gateron Mini i may be the best option 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
40g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Brown, we can see that the Mini i features a nylon top housing while the Brown has a polycarbonate top housing. The Mini i's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Brown's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, users can expect a different typing experience based on the top housing material of each switch.
The bottom housing material of both switches is nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the Mini i's top housing. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. In contrast, the Mini i's top housing made of nylon provides a different typing experience compared to the Outemu Brown's bottom housing, giving users a varied sound profile and feel depending on which parts of the switch come into play during use. Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon components.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Brown may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The Mini i's combination of nylon top and bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound absorption and overall feel. Whether users prefer a duller, rounder sound or a sharper, resonant sound, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Mini i is the lighter option. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. In contrast, the Outemu Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Gateron Mini i, as it provides a more effortless typing experience, perfect for long periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Outemu Brown switch for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in regards to actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparison, the Mini i offers a slightly shorter travel distance than the Brown switch. The Mini i's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a faster response time, making it preferred by gamers who value quick reactions. On the other hand, the Brown switch's 4 mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper keypress, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a shorter, quicker press with the Gateron Mini i or a slightly longer, more deliberate press with the Outemu Brown.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between actuation force requirement and sound level, making it suitable for various scenarios. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a gentle and responsive typing experience with a subtle resistance. This combination of qualities makes typing on the Mini i switches comfortable and efficient, ideal for long typing sessions. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is not provided in the information.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a subtle sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for office environments and long typing sessions. While the specifics of the Outemu Brown switch are unknown, it is safe to assume that it may provide similar results based on the information available. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing needs of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light, bouncy, and easy-to-press switch with a subtle sound profile that is suitable for office environments, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a different feel and sound characteristic, the Outemu Brown tactile switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. Both switches offer their unique advantages, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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