Outemu Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Red is known for its linear switch design, providing a consistent keystroke with no tactile feedback or audible click, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering a smooth and stable typing experience with reduced noise. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different needs, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on the user's preference for typing experience. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Although both switches share this top housing material, they may still exhibit slight differences in sound due to variations in design and construction.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Red and the Zero Degree 0° switches feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing material may play a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, it is important to consider how the combination of the nylon bottom housing and the polycarbonate top housing will influence the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch.
Overall, while the Outemu Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, slight differences in design and execution may lead to nuanced variations in sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches offer clear and resonant sound profiles, with the top housing impacting the sound when letting go of a key and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, each switch's housing materials contribute to its unique characteristics and overall performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Red requires a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Zero Degree's 45 grams. However, the Red also has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree is unknown. The Red switch provides a medium level of resistance, making it suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Zero Degree's force information is unavailable. Overall, the Red switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force when compared to the Zero Degree switch, but without the bottom out force information for the Zero Degree, it is difficult to determine how they truly differ in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Red. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Outemu Red is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some individuals. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offers a slightly faster response time, which is desirable for gamers looking for quick key presses. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Both switches offer a different typing experience, catering to a variety of preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
The Outemu Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for being on the quieter side, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is celebrated for its innovative design that aims to reduce noise levels significantly, providing a nearly silent typing experience. Additionally, the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a unique soft and elastic feel that enhances overall typing comfort and stability.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is typically described as smooth and consistent, offering a linear keypress with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is known for its exceptional smoothness and stability due to the self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This results in a typing experience that feels soft and elastic, absorbing sound and reducing noise while providing a satisfying keypress.
Considering the information provided, it is clear that the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch outshines the Outemu Red linear switch in terms of sound reduction and overall typing comfort. However, both switches offer a smooth keypress and stability, so if you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a soft feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you value a medium bottom out force and a reliable, budget-friendly option, the Outemu Red may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize innovation, smoothness, stability, and a silent typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° with its unique self-padding design and dual-rail structure might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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