Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch known for its. on the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch adored for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. The Dustproof Blue offers a tactile feedback that some users prefer for typing and gaming, while the Silent Ink Black provides a smooth, cushioned typing experience with minimal audio feedback. 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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 housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing. While the Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing to produce a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. Both materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience, but the Dustproof Blue may offer a more resonant sound due to polycarbonate's stiffness, while the Silent Ink Black has a more clacky sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Dustproof Blue utilizes a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics to its top housing with a pointed and high-pitched sound. The bottom housing material contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, both switches deliver unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings provide a balance of impact both upon pressing down and releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue or the clacky and high-pitched sound of Gateron's INK blend in the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that are sure to please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we can see that the Dustproof Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 60 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dustproof Blue at 65 grams and the Silent Ink Black at 70 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dustproof Blue for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent key press experience in terms of how far the key travels from top to bottom. Users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation point with either switch. While one may be clicky and the other linear, the travel distance remains the same, ensuring that typing on either switch will feel familiar and comfortable. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, making them equally suitable for users looking for a specific amount of key travel in their mechanical keyboard.
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 Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for its traditional clicky sound that is crisp and satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. The Silent Ink Black switch minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a great choice for quieter environments or when typing late at night.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience, with a pronounced bump and audible click during actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its refined finish and reduced friction. The Silent Ink Black switch also provides a cushion-like bottom-out feel, adding to the overall comfort during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy the traditional clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Dustproof Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent and smooth typing experience, the Silent Ink Black switch is a suitable option. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance in their respective sound and feel categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not concerned about noise levels, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you are in need of a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing environment. Happy keyboard shopping!
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