Outemu Brown vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type S, a linear switch, it’s important to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its tactile bump feedback, providing users with a satisfying feel upon actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its factory lubing techniques and 65g bottom-out weight, offering a smooth and weightier keystroke experience with a neutral yet deeper sound signature. While the Outemu Brown may appeal to those who value tactile feedback, the Gateron Type S caters to users who prefer a quieter and smoother keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
53g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the Gateron Type S switches both offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. The Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Type S's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer material. Both materials have their advantages, with polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while nylon offers a classic feel with a rounder sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound overall. The Type S's nylon bottom housing continues to absorb sound and create that dull, round sound profile, while the Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience. By using nylon for the bottom housing, both switches ensure a consistent sound profile throughout the typing process.
Overall, while the Outemu Brown and the Gateron Type S switches have different top housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through unique sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Brown switch creates a crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a sharper typing experience. In contrast, the Type S's nylon top housing offers a fuller sound with a softer feel, catering to those who prefer a deeper and rounder typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize delivering a quality sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in terms of resistance. The slight difference comes in the actuation force, with the Outemu Brown requiring 53 grams and the Gateron Type S needing 55 grams. This makes the Outemu Brown slightly lighter in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, the Outemu Brown may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Type S may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The tactile sensation of the Brown switch provides feedback to the user when the key press actuates, while the linear Type S switch offers a smooth and consistent feel throughout the entire travel distance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Brown switch may be preferred by those who prefer a tactile bump, while the Type S switch may be preferred by those who prefer a smoother key press. Ultimately, the travel distance of these switches is the same, providing a similar typing experience in terms of distance traveled.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type S 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for being relatively quiet, with a more subtle and mellow acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch has a neutral sound signature that leans towards a deeper and more satisfying acoustic experience. The Type S offers a subdued sound when pressed, providing a dampened and less intrusive sound compared to other switches. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by various factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In regards to feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch provides a tactile bump during actuation, giving users a satisfying feedback and response. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch with its 65g bottom-out weight offers a weightier keystroke experience for those who prefer a firmer press. The Type S linear switch may provide a smoother keystroke due to contemporary factory lubing techniques, enhancing the overall typing feel for users who enjoy linear switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Brown and Gateron Type S switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Brown switch provides a quieter and more tactile typing experience, the Type S switch delivers a deeper and weightier keystroke with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile that leans towards a deeper acoustic experience, and a weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out force, the Gateron Type S may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound profile that is more subdued, the Outemu Brown tactile switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience suits your preferences and needs the best.
Mentioned in this article
