Outemu Red vs. Gateron Weightlessness

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Red and Gateron Weightlessness stand out as two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The Outemu Red is a linear switch, renowned for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for gamers who require rapid key presses without any interruptions. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a tactile experience with a subtle to moderate bump that provides satisfying feedback during typing. This switch also boasts a balanced sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory cues without excessive noise. While the Outemu Red may appeal to those looking for speed and silence, the Gateron Weightlessness will attract users who enjoy the tactile sensation and want a more engaged typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Linear

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Red and Gateron Weightlessness switches present an interesting comparison in their housing materials, particularly when examining the top housings. The Outemu Red utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffer characteristics that lead to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's translucency not only allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects but also enhances the overall brightness of the sound produced when keys are released. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness employs a nylon top housing, which, being a softer material, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs more sound, creating a more subdued and rounded auditory experience when the key is released. Thus, while both switches feature distinct sound profiles influenced by their top housing materials, the Outemu Red offers a crisper auditory experience, whereas the Weightlessness provides a warmer and more mellow tone.

When we turn our attention to the bottom housings, both switches make use of nylon, which is a classic material in the world of mechanical switches. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out feel and noise generated when a key is pressed down. In this aspect, the two switches are similar, as both leverage nylon's inherent qualities to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This alignment in materials means that when typing on either switch, users will experience a weighted, subtle sonic dampening when the key is pressed. The similarity in bottom housing material results in a congruency in the fundamental typing experience—both switches will generate a muted yet satisfying bottom-out sound, promoting comfort and enjoyment during extended use.

In conclusion, the major divergence between the Outemu Red and Gateron Weightlessness lies primarily in their top housings, with polycarbonate and nylon serving distinct roles in sound generation. The former excels in generating a bright and resonant tone, primarily affecting the sound upon key release, while the latter's softer nature yields a richer, more rounded sound profile. However, the similarity in the nylon bottom housings ensures that both switches maintain an appealing depth in audio response when bottoming out. Collectively, these differences and similarities create a rich tapestry of auditory and tactile experiences for the user, where the selection between them ultimately hinges on personal preference for either a sharper or fuller sound profile during multiple types of interactions.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is unavailable. The Outemu Red features an actuation force of 46 grams, making it the lighter option, which can facilitate longer typing periods and is ideal for extended usage, such as at work or during gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feel. Although we cannot assess the bottom out force of the Weightlessness, the Outemu Red's bottom out force is 62 grams, indicating a defined resistance when fully pressed. Thus, for users seeking a light switch for prolonged typing ease, the Outemu Red is preferable, while those who enjoy a firmer feel might lean towards the Gateron Weightlessness.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find notable differences that may influence user preference based on typing style and intended use. The Outemu Red switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the most traditional measurement and offers a deeper feel when typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to those who seek faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. This shorter distance can make the actuation feel more abrupt, which some users may find preferable for quick actions, while others might desire the more substantial depth of the Outemu Red switch for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the Gateron Weightlessness, while those who appreciate a hearty depth are likely to prefer the Outemu Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern. Unlike the Red, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch features a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, which can introduce a more pronounced sound during typing. However, it’s essential to note that the overall sound profile of both switches can be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used, which means both switches can be tailored to suit different auditory preferences.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump, resulting in a fluid typing experience that many users find appealing for gaming and fast-paced typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch provides a balanced tactile experience, offering a subtle feedback that enhances typing accuracy without being intrusive. This tactile characteristic can make the Weightlessness feel more engaging for users who appreciate a slight bump while maintaining a fluid motion.

Overall, while both switches cater to different typing preferences—smoothness in the Red versus a balanced tactile feel in the Weightlessness—users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option. Those who value quiet operation and smooth keystrokes may gravitate towards the Outemu Reds, whereas individuals who enjoy a subtle tactile sensation may prefer the Gateron Weightlessness switches. Ultimately, the choice hinges on the user’s specific needs and preferences, whether they prioritize sound dampening, smoothness, or tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it’s important to consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keypress experience, the Outemu Red linear switch—with its medium 62 grams bottom out force—offers a satisfying feel that is excellent for rapid typing or gaming, making it a solid choice for those who value speed and fluidity over tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a subtle to moderate tactile response that provides feedback without being overly loud or disruptive, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch is your best bet. With its balanced sound profile and tactile characteristics, it caters well to those who enjoy a bit of texture in their typing experience but still desire a refined, quiet operation. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile engagement, allowing you to create the optimal typing setup tailored to your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more