Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Outemu Crystal Brown, known for its tactile feedback, offers a satisfying bump during each key press, making it an ideal option for typists who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stands out as a linear switch that delivers exceptional smoothness without any tactile bumps or clicks, appealing to those who prefer quieter and smoother keystrokes for gaming or rapid typing. While both switches provide unique benefits—tactile feedback for the Crystal Brown and a silky action for the Sea Salt Smoothie—each caters to different user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Crystal Brown switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke, making them ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for stunning RGB lighting effects, creating a visually appealing experience when illuminated. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie's top housing is made of POM, a material known for its unique and muted sound profile that leans towards a deeper tone. This difference in housing material results in a distinct auditory experience when typing, with the Crystal Brown delivering a brighter sound compared to the more subdued, rich tones of the Sea Salt Smoothie.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown utilizes nylon, which is a classic choice in switch manufacturing. Nylon’s softer properties create a fuller, rounder sound profile, effectively absorbing sound and resulting in a comfortable typing experience that doesn't feel harsh or overly aggressive. Similarly, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is constructed with POM for its bottom housing as well, providing a deep and muted sound profile. While both switches have different top housing materials, the similarities in their bottom housing materials contribute to a consistent experience of a muted sound profile overall, albeit in different pitches.

In conclusion, the differences and similarities in housing materials between the Outemu Crystal Brown and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie illustrate how they can cater to diverse user preferences. While the top housing of the Crystal Brown creates a brighter sound due to the polycarbonate, the POM top housing of the Sea Salt Smoothie results in a more muted experience, allowing for a deeper audio output. On the flip side, both switches share the POM material in their bottom housing, thus providing a deeper, fuller sound more consistent with muted tactile feedback. In a typing scenario, the combined influence of these housing materials shapes the users' overall experience, resulting in two switches that can yield somewhat parallel yet distinct auditory sensations based on their compositions.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we see some distinctions in their actuation forces. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is classified as medium-light, while the Sea Salt Smoothie comes in slightly heavier at 48 grams. This difference means the Crystal Brown may be better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. However, since the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie is unknown, we can't make a direct comparison in that regard. The Crystal Brown's bottom out force is 55 grams, indicating a substantial feel when the key is pressed down completely. Therefore, if you appreciate a heavier overall feel, you might lean towards the Crystal Brown, while those desiring a lighter actuation with an unknown bottom out feel may consider the Sea Salt Smoothie switch. Overall, the Outemu Crystal Brown is the lighter option, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is slightly heavier in actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the Crystal Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie measures at 3.7 mm. This means that the Crystal Brown offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Sea Salt Smoothie could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. While both switches cater to different preferences regarding depth and responsiveness, users seeking a more substantial feel may find the Outemu Crystal Brown more satisfying, whereas those after a swift and smooth typing experience might gravitate towards the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have specific characteristics associated with it, which leaves its auditory profile somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that is both pronounced and enjoyable during typing. This richness in sound can enhance the overall typing experience, making it feel more tactile and engaging. However, it's important to remember that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard build and keycap material used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown does not provide explicit details regarding its tactile nature, resulting in an undefined tactile experience. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie emphasizes its medium weight and exceptional smoothness, highlighting a seamless keystroke that many users find appealing, especially during extended typing sessions. This combination of weight and smoothness allows for a comfortable typing experience, which can be particularly attractive for users who prefer a linear switch that effortlessly glides down to the bottom without any tactile bump.

Ultimately, choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie will largely depend on individual preferences related to sound and feel. The Sea Salt Smoothie's established thocky sound and smooth actuation make it an appealing option for those seeking an engaging auditory experience combined with a fluid feel. In contrast, the undefined qualities of the Crystal Brown might leave some users in search of a clearer auditory or tactile experience. As you explore these switches, you will discover how personal preference can lead you to similar results based on the specific needs of your typing style and environment.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the kind of experience you are looking for. If you enjoy a tactile sensation with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the Crystal Brown will be an excellent fit, especially if you appreciate the feel of distinct feedback when you type. This switch is ideal for typists who prefer clear actuation points and will likely benefit those who indulge in touch typing or require tactile cues without the noise of a clicky switch. On the other hand, if you're seeking a smooth and quiet experience, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch is the way to go. It offers an incredibly fluid keypress, accentuated by a satisfying thocky sound profile, making it perfect for both gaming and office environments where discretion is valued. In essence, if your priority is a tactile feel with feedback, opt for the Crystal Brown, whereas for a more seamless, quiet typing experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie will better suit your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more