Outemu Blue vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Type A stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Outemu Blue is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without the audible click of the Outemu Blue. If you prefer a switch that provides auditory and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue may be the better choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a more subdued typing experience with a focus on smoothness, the Gateron Type A could be the switch for you. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Blue switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A has a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Both materials offer a unique sound experience, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound while nylon creates a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Blue and the Gateron Type A switches feature nylon material. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound and creates a deep and full sound profile when typing. The split between the top and bottom housing's qualities can be felt when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials for the Outemu Blue and Gateron Type A switches differ in their top housing (polycarbonate vs. nylon), they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue switch creates a clear and resonant sound, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Type A switch produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches have nylon bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound absorption and overall feel. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct options to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that in terms of triggering a keystroke, users can expect a similar level of force required. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Outemu Blue has an unknown bottom out force, while the Gateron Type A has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Blue for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Gateron Type A for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistent typing experiences across both switches, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which switch they choose. It is worth noting that having a travel distance of 4 mm can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and keypress feel for users who prefer a moderate amount of travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and loud click sound, making it popular among typists who enjoy auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is recognized for its neutral sound profile, offering a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed. While the Blue switch provides a more pronounced and tactile auditory experience, the Type A switch caters to users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing key responsiveness.
When it comes to the tactile feel of the switches, the information provided does not specify the specific qualities of either the Outemu Blue or Gateron Type A switches. However, typically, clicky switches like the Blue tend to have a tactile bump and audible click during actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a noticeable tactile response. Linear switches like the Type A, on the other hand, offer a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or auditory feedback, making them ideal for fast typists who prefer a consistent and linear feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences to meet different user preferences. While the Blue switch excels in providing a loud and tactile typing experience, the Type A switch offers a quieter and smoother typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Regardless of the choice, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience based on the user's specific preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience with no bottom out force, then the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a deeper sound profile and a neutral or subdued typing experience, the Gateron Type A linear switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best aligns with your needs.
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