Outemu Black vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Black and the Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to your preference and typing environment. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is characterized by its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is also a linear switch but is ideal for environments where quiet typing is a priority. The Silent Ink Black provides a softer bottom-out feel and minimal noise, making it perfect for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. 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
65g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. However, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend offers a slightly different sound, described as pointed and clacky, compared to the crisper sound profile of the Outemu Black. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the INK blend top housing provides a unique look and feel.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Outemu Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing maintains the pointed and high-pitched sound quality, contributing to the overall clacky feel of the Silent Ink Black switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer slightly different sound profiles, the overall typing experience may still be similar due to the impact each housing material has on the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with subtle differences in sound and feel based on the specific housing materials used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we find that the Outemu Black is heavier overall. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier option compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black, which has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black may be more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier feel of the Outemu Black could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options depending on individual preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of travel required from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and feedback when using either switch. The travel distance of 4mm for both switches ensures that users will not notice a significant difference in the amount of force needed to press down on a key, resulting in a comfortable and familiar typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, lacking any specific characteristics that stand out. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted typing experience, significantly reducing the typical clack associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it a great choice for those who need a quieter environment for typing. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Black switch doesn't have any specific descriptors related to its feel. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is praised for its silky and polished feel. This means that typing on this switch will provide a smooth and refined experience, with minimal resistance and friction when pressing and releasing keys. The cushioned bottom-out feel of the Silent Ink Black adds an extra layer of comfort to the typing experience.
Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch that offers a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be the superior choice compared to the Outemu Black. The Silent Ink Black excels in both sound and feel, providing a subdued typing sound and a smooth, cushioned typing experience. However, if you enjoy a more traditional linear switch without specific sound or feel characteristics, the Outemu Black can still deliver a reliable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, typing environment, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and do not require a silent typing experience, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a quieter typing experience and enjoy a smoother and more refined feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your typing environment.
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