Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Silent Ink Black stand out as distinct options. The Dustproof Brown switch is a tactile switch with None as its notable feature, while the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch loved for its silenced version, ideal for quiet typing environments. The Dustproof Brown offers a tactile experience, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke, while the Silent Ink Black delivers a smooth, cushioned bottom-out feel with minimal noise. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound. Both materials have their strengths, with polycarbonate being stiffer for a more resonant sound, and the INK blend providing a satisfying thin sound without being overly sharp.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Dustproof Brown uses nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend bottom housing offers a similar higher-pitched and clacky sound as its top housing, maintaining consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. The differences in bottom housing materials highlight how each switch can offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of housing materials used.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Silent Ink Black have different housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound like the Dustproof Brown or a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound like the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Dustproof Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 60 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown requires 65 grams to fully press down, while the Silent Ink Black needs 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a more substantial push feel for enhanced typing feedback. In either case, users can expect similar results in terms of force sensitivity and typing comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile 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 using either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. It is worth noting that the travel distance of both switches is neither shorter nor longer than the other, making them equally suitable options for those who value a consistent typing experience.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is known for its silence, providing a quiet typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is specifically designed to minimize noise, offering a muted typing sound that is ideal for quieter environments. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a softer and more subdued audio feedback while typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have specific descriptors to highlight its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is praised for its silky and polished feel. The silky smoothness of this switch enhances the overall typing experience, reducing resistance and providing a comfortable keypress. Additionally, the polished finish results in a refined and sleek typing feel, ensuring smooth key travel and minimal friction. Users who prefer a premium typing feel will appreciate the luxurious sensation offered by the Silent Ink Black switch.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches excel in their respective qualities. The Dustproof Brown switch provides a quiet typing experience, ideal for those who prefer minimal noise, while the Silent Ink Black switch offers a luxurious and muted typing feel, perfect for users seeking a smooth and refined tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve excellent results with either switch. Ultimately, choose the switch that best suits your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, your choice will depend on your specific preferences and needs. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features, the Dustproof Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience and enjoy a silky smooth feel when typing, the Silent Ink Black may be the better option. Ultimately, consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that best suits your keyboard preferences.
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