Outemu Black vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features to consider. The Outemu Black is best known for its smooth linear feel, making it ideal for fast-paced typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing silent typing and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise. Depending on your preferences, the Outemu Black may be preferred for its straightforward linear action, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° could be the better choice for those seeking a quieter 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. Despite these similarities, the Black's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While the top housings of both switches consist of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ with the Black utilizing nylon and the Zero Degree 0° also opting for nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the Black offering a more impact-driven bottom-out sound and feel compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s potentially rounder sound profile.
In terms of usage, the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials of the switches will be felt differently when typing. The bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing material will influence the sound when the key is released. Despite these variations, both the Outemu Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials combination.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Black switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a higher bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. When it comes to weight, the Outemu Black switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch would be lighter and potentially more comfortable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gateron Zero Degree 0° with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more traditional and deeper keypress may opt for the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the sound produced by each switch varies. The Outemu Black is generally known for its quiet operation, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is praised for its revolutionary design that absorbs sound and reduces noise during typing, providing a quieter typing experience overall. The feel of the two switches also differs, with the Outemu Black offering a traditional linear feel and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° providing a unique smoothness, stability, and elastic feel due to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Black and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer different sound profiles and tactile sensations, ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference. Both switches have their own strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience with sound-absorbing properties, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more traditional linear feel, the Outemu Black could be the ideal option. By considering your preferences and needs, you can select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a heavy and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Black linear switch may be the right choice for you. Its 82-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying feel for those who prefer a heavier keypress. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with smooth and stable keypresses, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch could be the ideal option. With its innovative design that reduces noise and provides a soft, elastic feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a unique typing experience that is perfect for those who value silence and comfort. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Black and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best matches your typing style and needs.
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