Outemu Green vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, there are a few key factors to consider. The Outemu Green switch is best known for its clicky tactile feedback, providing a satisfying sound and feel with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience, offering a smooth and cushioned bottom-out feel without the loud clicking noise. While the Green switch is great for those who enjoy the audible feedback of each keystroke, the Silent Ink Black switch is perfect for environments where noise level is a concern. 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
65g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top housings. Both switches use distinct materials in their top housings, with the Green utilizing polycarbonate and the Silent Ink Black using a proprietary INK blend. The polycarbonate top housing of the Green creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the INK blend top housing of the Silent Ink Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Outemu Green features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic material, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. While the materials are different, both switches strive to provide a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience for users based on their bottom housing materials.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the Outemu Green and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches use different housing materials, they both prioritize creating a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether it's the sharper and higher-pitched sound of the Green's polycarbonate top housing or the pointed and clacky sound of the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile for the individual user.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch are different yet somewhat similar. The Outemu Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch which has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a heavy bottom out force, with the Outemu Green clicky switch requiring 80 grams and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch requiring 70 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Outemu Green clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance allows for a familiar typing experience, whether you are using the Outemu Green clicky switch or the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a smooth and responsive typing experience, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Green 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Green clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, which can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is designed to produce a muted sound, offering a quieter typing experience ideal for shared or noise-sensitive environments. The Silent Ink Black switch provides a more subdued sound profile compared to the Outemu Green switch, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Green switch is typically known for its tactile feedback and pronounced bump during key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a pillow-like bottom-out feel, providing a smooth and cushioned typing experience. The Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in a refined and comfortable typing feel.
Overall, the Outemu Green clicky switch and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, catering to different preferences and typing environments. If you enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Green switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would be a suitable option. Remember that the ultimate typing experience also depends on other factors such as your keyboard build and keycap choice. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Outemu Green clicky switches and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you value a heavy clicky switch with a tactile feedback and don't mind the noise, the Outemu Green might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smoother key press, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be a better option. Ultimately, choose the switch that fits your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience. Happy typing!
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