Outemu Gold vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch stand out as popular options. The Outemu Gold is best known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is renowned for its smooth linear action and subtle sound profile, offering a quieter and more fluid typing experience. While the Outemu Gold appeals to those who prefer a more audible and tactile typing experience, the Gateron Type S caters to users looking for a quieter and smoother keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Gold and the Gateron Type S both utilize nylon for their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder tone. This similarity in material choice means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the switches.
In contrast, the top housing materials of the Outemu Gold and Gateron Type S differ significantly, with the Gold featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Type S utilizing nylon. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant tone. On the other hand, the use of nylon in the Type S top housing softens the sound, eliciting a deeper and fuller tone. This difference in top housing materials means that users can expect a noticeable variation in sound when releasing a key between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Outemu Gold and Gateron Type S utilize nylon for their bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile when pressing down on the switches, the difference in their top housing materials leads to distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold offers a sharp and crisp sound, whereas the nylon top housing of the Type S creates a softer and rounder tone. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience and sound quality of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Gold requires 60 grams, while the Gateron Type S needs 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch, as it has a slightly lower actuation force, making it easier to type on for extended periods. Conversely, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron Type S switch, which requires a bit more force both to actuate and bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for optimal performance.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. The equal travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch highlights their similar performance in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 S 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer different experiences. The Gold switch, known for its clicky mechanism, provides a satisfying tactile and auditory feedback with a sharp "click" noise on every keypress. On the other hand, the Type S switch, with its factory lubed design, offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too loud or distracting. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.
As for the feel of the switches, information on the subjective qualities of the Gold and Type S switches is not available. However, based on their respective characteristics, it can be assumed that the Outemu Gold clicky switch may offer a tactile and responsive typing experience due to its clicky nature, while the Gateron Type S linear switch may provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. The weight of the Type S switch, with its 65g bottom-out force, may also contribute to a more substantial feel compared to the Gold switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. The Gold switch excels in providing a satisfying clicky sound with each keystroke, while the Type S switch focuses on a quieter and more neutral sound signature. When it comes to feel, the Gold switch may offer tactile feedback, while the Type S switch could provide a smoother and weightier typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup, as both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a lighter bottom-out force and a more tactile, clicky typing experience, the Outemu Gold switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a smoother, linear keystroke with a more neutral and subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type S switch would be the more suitable option. It's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom-out force when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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