Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Silent Ink Black present distinct options tailored to different typing preferences and environments. The Dustproof Purple, while less defined in its selling points, is a tactile switch that provides feedback on key presses, making it a great choice for typists who enjoy the sensation of a slight bump as they actuate their keys. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black excels in its purpose-designed silencing features, perfect for those in noisy settings or shared workspaces, offering a soft, cushy bottom-out feel along with minimal sound upon activation. While the Outemu switch adds an engaging tactile experience to typing, the Gateron model prioritizes a serene and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Purple and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches each feature distinct housing materials that contribute uniquely to their sound profiles. The Dustproof Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and clarity in sound generation. This material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates crisply when keys are released. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black employs a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a pointed and high-pitched sound as well, but it is described as slightly less sharp. While both switches can produce a pronounced and clear sound when keys are pressed or released, the nuances in material composition lead to different auditory experiences.

When we examine the bottom housings of both switches, a stark contrast emerges. The Dustproof Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized for producing a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its absorption of sound waves. This softer material contributes to a more rounded auditory experience, especially noticeable during key bottoming-out. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black also utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which similarly aims to create a clear sound but tends towards a thin, clacky auditory signature. As a result, although both switches have high-pitched sound profiles, the different bottom housing materials significantly affect the overall depth and richness of the sound produced during typing.

In summary, the relationships between the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches create a complex interplay of sound characteristics. While both switches can achieve a distinctive auditory profile, they diverge in texture and resonance due to the differing materials used. The Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom enhances the fullness of sound, whereas the Silent Ink Black's INK blend allows for a sharper, clackier experience. Thus, although both switches share the potential for clarity and high-pitched resonance, their unique material compositions lead to distinctly different typing experiences and sound outcomes.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch with the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Purple has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Outemu Dustproof Purple is the lighter of the two switches, which may be more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Silent Ink Black, being heavier, caters to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches are considered medium-heavy, but their distinct forces provide different tactile sensations and user experiences, appealing to varied preferences.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that users will experience a similar distance when pressing down on either key. Since both switches share this travel distance, the tactile feel of the Outemu Purple and the smooth action of the Gateron Silent Ink Black may contribute to comparable keypress experiences in terms of depth. Therefore, regardless of their differing actuation mechanisms, users can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance when using these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have a defined characteristic provided, rendering it difficult to gauge its acoustic profile. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is intentionally designed to produce muted sounds, making it an excellent choice for quieter environments. With its silencing features, this switch minimizes the typical noise produced by mechanical keyboards, resulting in a cushioned auditory experience that is less jarring, which many users appreciate for both professional and personal use.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple lacks specific descriptions, so its tactile qualities remain ambiguous. However, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is recognized for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, often referred to as "silky." This smoothness is accompanied by a polished texture, which reduces friction during key presses, providing a refined and comfortable typing experience. Users can expect a soft, cushy landing due to its design, further enhancing the overall tactile satisfaction while typing.

In summary, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple's qualities are unspecified and thus difficult to analyze, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a well-defined auditory and tactile experience characterized by muted sounds and a silky, polished feel. If you are seeking a mechanical switch that prioritizes a quieter environment paired with a smooth typing experience, the Silent Ink Black would be the more favorable choice. In contrast, the performance and characteristics of the Dustproof Purple switch remain uncertain, and it may require personal testing to truly appreciate its qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch will largely depend on your specific preferences and the environments in which you’ll be typing. If you find yourself in a noisy setting such as a shared workspace or studying late at night when you want to minimize disturbance, the Silent Ink Black is an excellent choice due to its muted operation and silky, polished feel. It offers a smooth typing experience along with reduced noise, making it ideal for anyone who values quiet and comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and don’t mind a slightly louder switch, the Dustproof Purple could be your go-to. While it lacks the specific vocal strengths of the Silent Ink, its medium-heavy actuation force accommodates a firmer typing style, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. In essence, choose the Silent Ink Black for quieter and cushioned typing, while the Dustproof Purple may be more suited for those who prefer noticeable feedback in their keystrokes.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more