Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences and needs. The Gateron Mini i switches are praised for their gentle tactility, offering a satisfying feedback without the loud clacking noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. These switches are perfect for office environments, where a quiet professionalism is required for long hours of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switches offer a smooth key press experience with no tactile bump, providing a seamless typing experience. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent White switches both have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mini i features a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound well, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Silent White has a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. While the Mini i's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, the Silent White utilizes a nylon bottom housing as well, making them similar in this aspect.
When comparing the top housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent White switches, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles. The Mini i's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Silent White's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent White switch is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting. However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile that is deeper and fuller due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb sound effectively.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing of a switch, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, which is more significant when releasing a key, determines the sound profile when a key is let go. While the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent White switches have different top housing materials, their use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of switches with softer plastic housings.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams, while the Silent White needs 60 grams. The difference in force between the two switches means that the Mini i will feel lighter to type on, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent White provides a slightly heavier feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out force, providing a tactile typing experience while minimizing noise. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Mini i switch for its slightly longer travel distance, as it offers a bit more depth and feedback when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker response time may opt for the Silent White switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. In essence, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
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 Silent White 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, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists. The sound is moderate and doesn't disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of an office setting. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent White linear switch is unavailable, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a variety of tactile feedback options for users. The keys feel lively and offer a responsive typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, details on the feel of the Outemu Silent White switch are not provided, leaving a gap in comparing the tactile experience between the two switches.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch seems to excel in offering a versatile sound profile and a range of tactile sensations for users to choose from. On the other hand, due to the lack of information on the Outemu Silent White switch, it's challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfactory typing experience, albeit with potentially different sound and feel characteristics. To ensure similar results, users may need to try out both switches to determine which one aligns better with their preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, the Gateron Mini i would be a great choice, especially for office settings where a quiet professionalism is valued. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a linear switch without specific characteristics listed, the Outemu Silent White may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience.
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