Outemu Silent Green vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. The Silent Green is known for its linear switch design, providing a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A stands out for its innovative features, such as a medium-weight actuation force and a sound signature leaning towards deeper tones. While the Silent Green offers a straightforward typing experience, the Type A caters to those looking for a balance between tactile feedback and a quieter 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type A switches, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Silent Green features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials impact the sound produced by the switches, the polycarbonate in the Silent Green emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the nylon in the Type A focuses on depth and roundness.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the housing material of the two switches remains a point of divergence. The Outemu Silent Green boasts a polycarbonate bottom housing, which once again contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the overall resonance of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A comes with a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and nylon adding depth to the typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type A switches may have different housing materials for the top and bottom, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the properties of the materials used. The polycarbonate in the Silent Green provides sharpness and clarity, while the nylon in the Type A offers depth and roundness. Whether opting for a sharper, crisper sound or a fuller, deeper tone, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferences based on the housing materials used in each model. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type A will come down to personal sound preferences and typing experiences desired by the user.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have medium actuation forces, but the Silent Green is slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Green is heavier at 60 grams while the Type A is lighter at 55 grams. This means that the Silent Green provides a bit more resistance when fully pressing the key, while the Type A has a lighter feel when bottoming out. If you prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Type A may be more suitable, whereas if you enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Silent Green could be your choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a good balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch is equal, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of key travel. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience, with neither being shorter or longer in travel distance compared to the other. Whether you choose the Outemu Silent Green or the Gateron Type A, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent 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 Silent Green switch is best known for providing a quiet typing experience due to its silent operation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a variety of users and purposes. While the Silent Green is specifically designed to reduce noise, the Type A switch gives a more traditional typing sound that is not overly loud.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch is known for its smooth linear feel, providing consistent keystrokes with no tactile feedback. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not available at this time. However, as both switches are linear switches, users can generally expect a similar smooth keystroke experience without any tactile bump or audible click.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is ideal for users looking for a quiet typing experience, while the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, making them suitable for users who prefer a consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback of other switch types. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is important to consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, then the Type A with its 55 grams bottom out force would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, then the Silent Green with its 60 grams bottom out force would be more to your liking. Additionally, consider the sound profiles of the switches - the Silent Green is known for its neutral sound, while the Type A offers a more subdued sound signature. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force and sound profile.
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