Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we see some distinct differences in their primary features. The Dustproof Black switch is best known for its durability, as the name suggests it is resistant to dust and other particles that can cause malfunctions in the switch. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is favored for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept down. The Dustproof Black switch falls into the category of reliability, while the Silent Ink Black switch is known for its silky, muted, and polished feel. Both switches have their own unique advantages, 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
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches both offer unique qualities in their housing materials. The Dustproof Black features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. While both offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Dustproof Black provides a clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend of the Silent Ink Black offers a satisfying thin sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Dustproof Black utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a similar high-pitched sound profile to its top housing, described as clacky. Both switches provide a unique typing experience with their bottom housing materials, with the Dustproof Black offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Silent Ink Black maintains a pointed and high-pitched sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Outemu Dustproof Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, both contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feel of the switch. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials, whether it be the sharper sound of the polycarbonate in the Dustproof Black or the clacky sound of the proprietary INK blend in the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have the same actuation force of 60 grams, meaning that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Dustproof Black requires 80 grams while the Silent Ink Black only requires 70 grams. This makes the Dustproof Black heavier overall compared to the Silent Ink Black. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Ink Black for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Black for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have the same 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 ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience provided by both switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, making them equal in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
The Outemu Dustproof Black 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch is not known for any particular sound characteristics, making it a bit of a wildcard in terms of noise level. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is praised for its muted sound profile, minimizing the typical clackiness associated with mechanical keyboards. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black switch would be the way to go.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch doesn't have a specific reputation for its typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is known for providing a silky smooth typing experience with a polished finish. This means that you can expect reduced friction and a refined feel when using the Silent Ink Black switch, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience.
Overall, if you're looking for a switch with an undefined sound profile and feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch might be worth considering. However, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a silky smooth feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would be a better choice. Remember, the ultimate typing experience is also influenced by factors such as your keyboard build and keycap choice, so make sure to take those into consideration as well to achieve your desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and are not concerned about noise levels, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, and prioritize a quieter typing experience with a cushioned, pillow-like feel, the Silent Ink Black is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort and noise levels.
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