Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Type S offer unique typing experiences for users. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump feedback with each key press, while the Gateron Type S is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Crystal Brown may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Gateron Type S could be the better choice. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
To differentiate between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Type S, it is important to note that the Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing while the Type S utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal Brown contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, creating a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type S produces a deeper and fuller sound, providing a more muted and rounded typing sensation. This variance in top housing material results in distinct auditory feedback for users of each switch.
When examining the bottom housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Type S, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing. This shared feature means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches results in a deeper and fuller sound, creating a consistent auditory feedback regardless of the switch being used. Therefore, users can expect a comparable bottom-out sound and feel when typing on either the Crystal Brown or the Type S, highlighting the importance of housing material in the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Type S ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the Crystal Brown offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Type S provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. However, with both switches utilizing a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound experience regardless of their selection. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and are key factors to consider when choosing between the two.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch differ in weight. The Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. Similarly, the Crystal Brown's bottom out force is 55 grams, while the Type S requires 65 grams to bottom out. This makes the Crystal Brown a medium-light switch and the Type S a medium-heavy switch. The lighter actuation force of the Crystal Brown may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier Type S may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom. This means that users can expect a similar experience in terms of key press depth and overall feel when using either of these switches. Whether you choose the Outemu Crystal Brown for its tactile feedback or the Gateron Type S for its smooth linear feel, you can be assured that the travel distance will not be a factor that sets them apart.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal 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 Crystal Brown switch is known for its None sound signature, which means it does not produce any specific sound characteristic that stands out. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch is recognized for its neutral sound profile, providing a balanced and deeper acoustic experience that leans towards a more subdued sound compared to most switches. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard chassis and keycap materials used.
Turning to the feel of these switches, specific information on the tactile sensation of the Outemu Crystal Brown and linear movement of the Gateron Type S is not provided. However, tactile switches like the Crystal Brown typically offer a noticeable bump during actuation, providing tactile feedback to typists. In contrast, linear switches like the Gateron Type S are known for their smooth and consistent keystrokes without any tactile bump. This difference in feel can greatly impact typing comfort and preference.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Gateron Type S switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Crystal Brown may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience without a tactile bump, the Gateron Type S provides a balanced and subdued sound with a smooth linear keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup. Both switches can deliver a satisfactory typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can find a switch that suits their needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of weight, sound, and typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when choosing between them.
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