Outemu Green vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Green and Gateron Type A offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Green is a clicky switch that provides a tactile and audible feedback with each key press, making it ideal for typists who enjoy the satisfying click sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is a linear switch from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, known for its innovative design that combines traditional travel distances with factory lubing techniques for a smoother keystroke. While the Green is categorized as clicky, the Type A falls under the neutral and subdued category. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal typing style and preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that both switches may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, despite any differences in other aspects of the switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Outemu Green features a polycarbonate housing while the Gateron Type A utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Green switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type A switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in top housing materials may result in a noticeable difference in the sound and feel of typing on these switches, particularly when it comes to the actuation and release of keys.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Green switch allows for a translucent design that is ideal for RGB lighting. This creates a visually appealing experience for users who enjoy customizable lighting options. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of translucency and RGB lighting capabilities. This distinction in the material choice for the top housing also adds to the overall differences in the look and feel of these switches, providing users with options based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch. The Green switch requires 65 grams of force to actuate a key and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier switch overall. On the other hand, the Type A switch only needs 50 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. This means that the Green switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Type A switch will offer a lighter typing experience more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, your preference for a heavier or lighter switch will determine which one is the better choice for you.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. While the specific feeling of the key press may differ due to their switch type (clicky vs. linear), the physical distance traveled remains the same for both switches. This makes them suitable options for users who prefer a consistent travel distance in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Green clicky switch is best known for its loud and crisp click sound with each key press, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, producing a moderate sound that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. While the Green switch provides a more pronounced and satisfying click, the Type A switch offers a more subdued and subtle sound experience, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
As for the feel of the switches, the Outemu Green switch is known for its tactile feedback and pronounced bump during actuation, providing tactile typists with a satisfying typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback, allowing for effortless key presses and a consistent feel across all keys. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding tactile feedback and actuation force.
In conclusion, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Green switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience, the Type A switch offers a more neutral sound profile and smooth keystrokes. Depending on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a smooth typing experience, both switches have their own strengths that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing environment in which they will be used.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a heavy bottom out force and a distinctive clicky sound, the Outemu Green would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more neutral or subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type A linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences when it comes to typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Happy typing!
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