Outemu Gold vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Gold and Gateron Zero Degree 0° present two distinct yet compelling options tailored to different typing preferences. The Outemu Gold, characterized as a clicky switch, offers an audible and tactile feedback that appeals to typists and gamers who enjoy a more pronounced keypress experience; the satisfying 'click' can enhance typing accuracy and provide a sense of engagement with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch redefines silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, creating a smooth, stable, and quiet experience that is ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing environment, perfect for office settings or late-night gaming sessions. While the Gold’s tactile feedback enhances the pleasure of typing and can contribute to a more interactive experience, the Zero Degree 0° excels in delivering a seamless, whisper-quiet performance that emphasizes speed and fluidity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Gold Clicky

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$3.10 per 10

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Gold and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches feature top housings made from polycarbonate, which impacts their sound profiles in notably similar ways. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffness, contributing to a higher-pitched and crisper sound when typing. This clarity in auditory feedback is further enhanced by the material’s translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. Both switches utilize this characteristic to produce clear sound and vibrant lighting effects, appealing to users who value both aesthetic and acoustic performance in their keyboard builds.

In contrast, while both switch models utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the properties of this material create a distinct auditory experience. Nylon is a softer plastic, which absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer materials. This quality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nature of the nylon will dampen some of the higher frequencies produced by the polycarbonate top housing, blending the sharper sounds with a rounder, mellower tone. This acoustic combination allows users to experience a rich and balanced sound profile across both switch types, even though the nylon used in both models will lead to unique bottom-out experiences with each switch press.

Notably, the arrangement of the housing materials in both the Outemu Gold and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches illustrates how sound qualities are bifurcated between the top and bottom portions. With both featuring polycarbonate tops, users can expect a similar resonance upon release, while the nylon bottoms will create a fuller, slightly muted feel at the bottom-out, leading to a nuanced typing experience. Therefore, while the internal properties are consistent across the two brands, the user experience remains distinctively satisfying, as the interplay of materials from both models serves to enrich both the auditory and tactile responses when typing.

Weight

The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Outemu Gold features a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a sturdier pressure is required to fully depress the key, resulting in a heavier overall feel when bottoming out. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is unavailable, leaving us without a direct comparison for that measurement. Because of the Outemu Gold’s higher bottom out force, it may appeal to typists who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, while individuals who prefer a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Gateron switch, though its overall heft remains uncertain. Consequently, while both switches offer the same actuation force, the Outemu Gold is definitively the heavier option when considering bottoming out.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it’s clear that the two differ significantly. The Outemu Gold features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the most traditional measurement for keyboard switches, providing a deeper press that many users appreciate for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor quicker response times and a more streamlined feel, often preferred in gaming situations. This difference indicates that the Gold switch offers a longer and more pronounced keypress, while the Zero Degree 0° switch provides a slightly more responsive option, appealing to those who might find shorter travel distances less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Gold clicky switch is characterized by its distinct auditory feedback, providing a pronounced and satisfying click sound that many typists find delightful. This clicky nature can enhance the typing experience by offering tactile confirmation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is engineered for a nearly silent operation, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. The Zero Degree 0° aims to deliver a whisper-soft sound, allowing for stealthy typing sessions that won’t disturb others, which can be particularly beneficial in shared or quiet environments.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch offers a tactile experience with a defined resistance that culminates in a noticeable snap at the actuation point. This feel is engaging for typists who enjoy a more interactive experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch provides a smooth, almost gliding sensation with no tactile bump, thanks to its unique structure that minimizes friction. This creates an effortless typing experience devoid of any interruptions, making for a more fluid and linear keystroke.

In conclusion, both switches cater to vastly different preferences in the typing experience. The Outemu Gold is suited for those who thrive on auditory feedback and tactile sensation, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is ideal for anyone seeking a quiet, smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one values sound and tactile feedback or prioritizes silence and smoothness in their keyboard interactions.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider both your typing preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile and audible response while typing, the Outemu Gold, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, provides a satisfying click that can enhance your typing experience, making it ideal for both typists and gamers who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is an exemplary choice. This switch features a self-padding design that minimizes noise and enhances the smoothness and stability of each key press, making it perfect for quiet environments or late-night work sessions where noise can be a concern. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prefer the auditory feedback of a clicky switch or the stealth and smoothness offered by a linear switch. Choose the Outemu Gold for a more traditional, feedback-rich experience, and opt for the Gateron Zero Degree if you seek silent, fluid typing.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Gold Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn more