Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and Outemu Crystal Brown both fall into the tactile switch category, offering a satisfying tactile bump with each keystroke. The Gateron Mini i switches are subtle and office-centric, providing gentle tactility without sacrificing the quiet professionalism desired in a workplace setting. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches have a tactile feel without any specific standout features mentioned. While the Gateron Mini i switches are described as lightweight and easy to press, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches have a more neutral description. When choosing between the two switches, one may lean towards the Gateron Mini i for its bouncy and snappy typing experience suitable for long hours of comfortable typing in a quieter environment. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is clear that they use different materials for both the top and bottom housing. The Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown comes with a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile as the stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in materials gives each switch a distinct sound characteristic that caters to different preferences in typing experience.
While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, they each have unique top housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Mini i's nylon bottom housing continues to offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing mirrors this effect as well. This commonality in bottom housing material ensures a consistent feel and sound experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel for both switches, despite their different top housing materials. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound between the Mini i and the Crystal Brown.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Crystal Brown comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Mini i with its nylon top housing provides a rounder and duller sound, while the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. The differences in their top housing materials showcase the impact that housing material can have on the overall typing experience, especially in terms of sound. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Mini i has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown. The Mini i requires only 40 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Crystal Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Mini i is more geared towards those who prefer a lighter touch, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown offers a slightly heavier feel, which may appeal to users looking for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Crystal Brown. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the difference in travel distance can affect the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing 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 Crystal 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 fairly muted sound profile that strikes a balance with a satisfying feedback of typing. With a neutral sound descriptor, these switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, at home or in the office. The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch sound qualities are unknown, so it's hard to directly compare the two in this aspect. When considering sound, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These switches provide a spring-like sensation, minimal force activation, gentle typing experience, super responsiveness, light typing feel, and a two-stage tactile sensation. On the other hand, the feel qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are unknown, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. However, if we consider the feel descriptions of the Gateron Mini i, users can expect a comfortable and responsive typing experience with these switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a gentle, subtle tactile experience with a muted sound profile, suitable for office environments or shared spaces. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are unknown, based on the information provided, users can expect similar gentle tactility and a focus on comfort with these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Crystal Brown will come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you value a light bottom out force and a quiet typing experience suitable for office use, the Gateron Mini i switch with its bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle tactile feel may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a medium-light switch with potential snappy responsiveness, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch could be more fitting. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and the atmosphere in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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