Outemu Black vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often boil down to the type of feedback one seeks while typing or gaming. The Outemu Black switch exemplifies the linear switch category, which is popular among gamers due to its smooth, uninterrupted key presses that allow for rapid keystrokes without tactile bumps or audible clicks, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch introduces a tactile experience with a subtle to moderate tactile feel, providing satisfying feedback that helps typists gauge the actuation point without the loud noise typical of clicky switches. The balanced sound profile of the Weightlessness enhances its tactile properties, giving users a nuanced experience that many find enjoyable for both typing and everyday use. Ultimately, while the Outemu Black excels in speed and silence, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a more engaging and responsive 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
65g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Black and Gateron Weightlessness switches exhibit notable differences, particularly with their top housings. The Outemu Black features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffer nature, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile when typing. This quality not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch’s acoustics but also makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and inherently absorbs more sound. As a result, this switch delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a typing experience that feels more muted and warm compared to the clearer tones of the Black's polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Outemu Black and the Gateron Weightlessness employ nylon. This choice brings them closer together in terms of acoustic performance, as both switches will experience the characteristics associated with nylon. This consistency in material means they will share a deeper and more rounded sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Therefore, while the top housings notably influence the sound during key release, the bottom housings ensure a rich audio depth upon bottoming out, unifying their auditory qualities. As such, the Gateron’s and Outemu’s nylon bottom housings create a foundation that balances the attributes from their respective top materials.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Outemu Black and the purely nylon construction of the Gateron Weightlessness leads to distinctive yet somewhat complementary effects on sound and feel. The Black, with its polycarbonate top, excels in providing a clearer auditory profile, ideal for users who appreciate a sharp typing experience, especially when RGB lighting is in play. In contrast, the Weightlessness offers a more subdued auditory presence with a soft touch, targeting users who prefer a warmer, more cushioned feel. Both designs provide unique tactile feedback and sound profiles, implying that users can achieve tailored experiences based on their housing materials—each contributing to the overall typing ambiance in unique ways, whether through clarity or warmth.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of actuation force. The Outemu Black requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial feel during typing, which some users might prefer for a satisfying tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. While the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch is unavailable, the Outemu Black’s bottom out force stands at 82 grams, further reinforcing its heavier nature. Consequently, those who favor lighter switches for extended use may gravitate towards the Gateron Weightlessness, while users seeking a more robust tactile feedback would likely prefer the Outemu Black.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it becomes evident that they cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, aligning with the traditional depth favored by many users who appreciate a hearty key press. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to gamers and others who prioritize faster response times. This shorter travel might feel more abrupt to some users, as it demands less movement to actuate the key. Therefore, if you enjoy a more responsive, quicker actuation, the Gateron Weightlessness would be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel and a deeper key press, the Outemu Black is the switch to go for. In essence, the Outemu Black’s travel distance is longer at 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness measures shorter at 3.4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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
The Outemu Black linear switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, though its exact sound profile isn't specified. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offers a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile characteristics. This means that while the Outemu Black may produce less auditory feedback, the Weightlessness provides a sound that subtly enhances the typing experience through its tactile nature. It’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycap materials, but the Weightlessness clearly adds a level of auditory richness that the Black does not possess.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black is characterized by its smooth linear action, which provides an uninterrupted typing experience without any tactile bump. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a subtle to moderate tactile feel, allowing typists to experience a definitive feedback without being overly pronounced. This tactile engagement can be beneficial for users who prefer to feel the actuation point as they type, creating a more interactive and satisfying experience compared to the straightforward linear feel of the Outemu Black.
In summary, the Outemu Black linear switch and Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch cater to distinct preferences. While the Black delivers a quieter and smooth typing experience, the Weightlessness adds a tactile feedback element combined with a balanced sound that enriches the overall experience. Ultimately, your choice would depend on whether you prefer a linear switch with a more muted operation or a tactile switch that produces a more engaging auditory and physical feedback during use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch really depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch that provides a linear and smooth experience without any tactile feedback, then the Outemu Black with its 82 grams bottom-out force may be the better option for you, especially if you enjoy a more deliberate and forceful keystroke. This switch is particularly suited for dedicated gamers or those who type with a heavy hand. On the other hand, if you're looking for a balanced typing experience that includes subtle to moderate tactile feedback, the Gateron Weightlessness would be your go-to. This switch allows for a satisfying tactile sensation without compromising on its sound profile, making it ideal for both typing and gaming, all while offering a sound profile that complements its tactile nature without being overly noisy. Ultimately, your selection should align with how you engage with your keyboard—whether you seek the solid push of the Blacks or the nuanced sense of feedback offered by the Weightlessness.
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