Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silver offer different advantages for various preferences. The Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, is praised for its gentle tactility and fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver, a linear switch, does not have any particular standout feature but provides a smooth keystroke without any bump or click sound. While the Mini i is best suited for those who prefer a bouncy and subtle typing experience, the Silver may appeal to individuals who prioritize a smooth and linear feel. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silver, it is evident that the Mini i utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Silver utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The Mini i's nylon housing is praised for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties, whereas the Silver's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. However, both switches share the commonality of having a nylon bottom housing, which results in a similar deep and round sound profile when typing on them.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Mini i and the Outemu Silver both aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their distinct sound profiles. While the Mini i's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of each switch allows for a unique combination of qualities that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbent sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer a variety of options for users to customize their typing experience.
In considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that each component plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, as seen in both the Mini i and the Silver, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of a well-balanced combination of housing materials for a satisfying typing experience. While the Mini i and the Outemu Silver offer different housing material configurations, their shared goal of enhancing typist satisfaction through unique sound profiles remains consistent.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more lightweight option. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Mini i, while users who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Silver. In terms of weight, the Mini i is lighter than the Silver, with the actuation and bottom out forces differing between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a faster response or a more substantial key press 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 Silver 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 being audible without being overly disruptive, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silver linear switch is unknown, so it's not possible to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, offering a mild and subtle tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. The keys feel responsive and snappy, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch is not specified, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is known for its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making it a suitable option for quiet office settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch's qualities are not explicitly stated, so it's essential to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between the two. Both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Gateron Mini i offering a balanced sound and feel, while the Outemu Silver may offer a different yet equally satisfying result.
Conclusion
In sum, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize a lightweight and subtle typing experience with a muted sound profile, the Gateron Mini i would be an excellent choice, especially for office use where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keypress with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silver linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and environment to ensure the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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