Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences and needs in the mechanical keyboard realm. The Gateron Mini i switches are praised for their gentle tactility, providing a satisfying feedback with a fairly muted sound profile that is ideal for office settings where a quiet professionalism is valued. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switches offer a clicky feedback that some users find more enjoyable for typing. While the Mini i switch is described as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Subtle', the Gold switch does not have any specific descriptors provided. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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 Gold, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Mini i features a nylon housing while the Gold boasts a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing of the Gold allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
Despite both switches sharing nylon as the material for the bottom housing, the differences arise in their top housing materials. The Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Gold's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience for users who may prefer a more muted sound or a more pronounced click in their switches. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing on the Gold allows for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the switch that the Mini i may lack.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is evident that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The softer nature of nylon in both the Mini i and Gold's bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether nylon for the Mini i or polycarbonate for the Gold, influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience on each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Mini i has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Gold's 60 grams, providing a softer landing when pressing all the way down. Those who prefer a more lightweight typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Mini i, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Outemu Gold. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable choices for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferable choice for those looking for fast response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold switch provides a longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper keypress feel. Both options fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold switch being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that complements its gentle tactility, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is unavailable, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience with mild characteristics that make typing comfortable and engaging. The switch's subtle resistance ensures a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, details about the Outemu Gold clicky switch's tactile feel are unknown, so a direct comparison to the Mini i in terms of typing experience cannot be made at this time.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, neutral sound profile, and comfortable typing feel. Without specific information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it's challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. However, based on the characteristics of the Mini i switch, users seeking a switch with similar qualities may find a satisfying typing experience with the Outemu Gold clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it all comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you value a lightweight switch with a gentle tactility, suited for quiet office environments and long typing sessions without the clack sound, the Gateron Mini i would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium actuation force and a clicky feedback for a more pronounced typing experience, the Outemu Gold clicky switch might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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