Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch, offering a satisfying tactile bump while typing, providing a tactile feedback that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is a linear switch that focuses on delivering a smooth and silent typing experience, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Each switch caters to different preferences - the Crystal Brown for those who enjoy tactile feedback and the Zero Degree 0° for users who prioritize smoothness and quiet operation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to other materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who enjoy a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, ultimately creating a duller and rounder sound. This makes typing on switches with nylon bottom housings a preferred choice for those looking for a quieter and more satisfying typing experience.
While both switches share similarities in housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switches can impact typing feel and sound. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, like polycarbonate, will have a more significant impact on the sound profile when releasing a key. Understanding how these materials interact within the switches can help users choose the best option based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the same at 45 grams, meaning that you will get similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke with both switches. However, where they differ is in the bottom out force. The Crystal Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch, for which the bottom out force is unknown. The Crystal Brown would be considered the heavier option of the two due to its higher bottom out force, making it more suitable for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Zero Degree 0° would be the lighter option, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Crystal Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Crystal Brown is more traditional, offering a deeper keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Zero Degree provides a slightly shallower keypress, offering faster response times, which is favored by gamers. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a longer, more tactile keypress or a shorter, more responsive one.
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 Crystal Brown 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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Crystal Brown is known for its tactile bump and slight audible click, offering a satisfying typing experience with a bit of feedback. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is praised for its innovative design that focuses on silence and smoothness, providing a soft and cushioned typing feel with minimal noise. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the quiet and smooth operation of the Zero Degree 0° for a more discreet typing experience, while others may enjoy the tactile feedback of the Crystal Brown for a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it is recommended to try out both to see which one suits your individual needs best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown would be a good choice. This switch is best known for its tactile bump, providing feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and silent typing experience with no bottom out force, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be more suitable. This switch is best known for its innovative design that reduces noise and provides a soft, elastic feel. Consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or silent typing in your mechanical keyboard.
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