Outemu Gold vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Type A, a linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Outemu Gold is known for its clicky feedback, providing tactile satisfaction with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A stands out for its smooth linear feel, offering a quieter typing experience. While the Gold may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response, the Type A caters to individuals who value a subdued sound profile. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Gold and Gateron Type A both feature nylon bottom housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with stiffer plastic housings. However, while both switches have nylon bottom housings, the Gold features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, offering a different sound experience compared to the Gold.
While the bottom housings of the Outemu Gold and Gateron Type A are both made of nylon, the top housings differ significantly between the two switches. The Gold's polycarbonate top housing results in a more distinct sound profile, while the Type A's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in materials highlights the impact that the housing material can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches still offer a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material in a switch can have a significant effect on the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Outemu Gold's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a sharper and clearer sound, while the Gateron Type A's nylon top and bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design. Whether choosing a switch with polycarbonate or nylon housings, users can expect to achieve satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Gold switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Type A switch at 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold switch is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Type A switch at 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, but the Gold switch leans towards the heavier side when it comes to bottom out force. This means that users who prefer a lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force may prefer the Gold switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force may lean towards the Type A switch. In terms of weight, the Gold switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Type A switch may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. However, it is worth noting that even though their travel distances are the same, the Outemu Gold clicky switch provides a clicky feedback while the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a smooth linear feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer a clicky tactile feedback or a smooth linear feel will determine which switch is the better choice for you, as their travel distances are identical.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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
The Outemu Gold clicky switch is best known for its unique sound profile, which is typically characterized by a crisp and clicky feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is renowned for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a more subdued sound when pressed. When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold provides a distinct clicky experience, while the Gateron Type A offers a more subdued and neutral sound signature.
In terms of feel, information on the subjective qualities of the Gold and Type A switches are not provided. However, based on their respective descriptions and characteristics, we can infer that the Outemu Gold clicky switch likely provides a tactile and satisfying typing experience with its clicky feedback, whereas the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is important to consider personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Gold may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Gateron Type A could be the ideal option. Remember that individual experiences may vary depending on the context in which the switches are used, including the keyboard and keycaps. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Gold switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a linear feel, and a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type A switch might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Happy typing!
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