Outemu Peach vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, both of which are linear switches. The Outemu Peach is known for its feather-lightweight feel and silent operation, making it a favorite among linear switch enthusiasts who prefer a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a unique experience with its cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a quieter typing environment. However, to truly determine the best switch for your needs, let's explore these switches in more detail beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Outemu Peach features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This material produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky but not overly sharp. Therefore, while both switches have different characteristics, they both offer unique sound experiences.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black also differ in material composition and resulting sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Peach contributes to its deep and fuller sound profile due to the nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black incorporates the proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This material is characterized by a thin and higher-pitched sound, which is described as clacky. Therefore, the bottom housings of the two switches also bring distinct sound qualities, further distinguishing them from one another.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch experience, both the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black exhibit similar characteristics. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as it directly affects the contact and rebound of the components. Conversely, the top housing has a more noticeable impact on the sound when a key is released. This difference in housing materials and their resulting sound profiles emphasizes the individuality of each switch, providing users with options based on their preferred sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are notable differences. The Outemu Peach has a lighter touch with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lightness is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and enables them to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a slightly heavier feel. It has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. For users who prefer a more substantial and responsive typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be a suitable choice. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a satisfying tactile response and smooth keystrokes. While the forces differ, the overall feel and performance of the switches can result in similar typing experiences, catering to individuals' personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Silent Ink Black has a longer distance compared to the Outemu Peach. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Silent Ink Black falls within the more traditional range, while the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Peach is on the shorter side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Peach. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for responsiveness or depth in keypress.
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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, both the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are described as muted. This means that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, which helps to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while both switches offer a muted sound profile, the specific sound experience may vary depending on the setup.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Peach switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience. These switches have a gentle resistance that is not too heavy but still maintains a light typing feel. The sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, the Outemu Peach switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similar to the Outemu Peach, the Gateron Silent Ink Black also has a polished finish, providing a sleek and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer muted sound profiles, making them a great choice for those who prefer quieter typing. While the Outemu Peach provides a mild and subtle typing experience with a polished finish, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a silky smooth typing experience also with a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding the specific sound and feel desired. However, it is important to keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With that being said, both switches provide excellent options for those seeking a quieter and more comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a linear switch enthusiast looking for a light and quiet typing experience, the Outemu Peach is the switch for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a featherlight feel that is perfect for those who prefer a light touch while typing. Additionally, the Outemu Peach switches are silenced, making them ideal for environments where noise reduction is important. The sound profile of the Outemu Peach is described as neutral and muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. In terms of feel, the Outemu Peach provides a mild, subtle, and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke. On the other hand, if you are specifically looking for a silenced switch that offers a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is the switch to consider. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel that may be preferred by users who prefer a bit more resistance. The sound profile of the Gateron Silent Ink Black is also described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a silky smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Ultimately, your choice between the Outemu Peach and the Gateron Silent Ink Black will depend on your preference for switch weight, typing experience, and noise level.
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