Outemu Silent Green vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Green and Gateron Type S stand out as two popular linear options. The Silent Green is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes thanks to its factory lubing techniques. The Type S also provides a slightly heavier keypress with a balanced and deep sound profile. While both switches have their strengths, such as the Silent Green's noise-reducing properties and the Type S's satisfying tactile feel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type S, it is clear that the Silent Green utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Type S employs nylon for both components. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, nylon, a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in stiffness between the two materials results in a noticeable difference in the sound and feel of typing on switches that use them.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housing of a switch can impact the overall typing experience. With the Silent Green's polycarbonate top and bottom housing, users can expect a clear and resonant sound profile both when pressing down on a key and when letting go. Conversely, the Type S's nylon top and bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile throughout typing. The split between the housing materials in each switch allows for a more nuanced and varied sound experience depending on the stage of typing, whether it be the bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key from the top housing.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Green and Gateron Type S differ in their choice of housing materials, both ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience through unique sound profiles. Whether it be the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate in the Silent Green or the deep and full sound of nylon in the Type S, users will be able to tailor their preference based on the specific qualities each material brings to the switch. In the end, regardless of the material used, both switches prioritize creating a satisfying typing experience for their users.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience with different actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Green has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams, making it easier to type on for longer periods of time without fatigue. However, the Silent Green has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams, giving it a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing or a stronger push feel for added typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel between the top and bottom of the switch. Both switches offer a consistent and tactile feedback to the user, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches as they offer the same distance for keypresses.
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 S 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 known for its lack of distinctive qualities, while the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile. The Type S switch provides a pleasing balance of sound, leaning towards a deeper acoustic experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle sound while typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the specific qualities of the Outemu Silent Green and Gateron Type S linear switches are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, based on their classification as linear switches, both options are likely to offer a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback or audible clicks. Linear switches are generally preferred by gamers and fast typists for their consistent feel and rapid response time.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silent Green and Gateron Type S switches may differ in sound characteristics, both options are linear switches that are likely to provide a smooth and consistent typing experience. If you prefer a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type S switch could be the ideal choice for you, especially if you appreciate a deeper acoustic experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and other factors such as actuation force and keystroke weight.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Type S linear switches, it is important to consider your preferences in regards to the bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly lighter keystroke with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, along with a sound profile that is not too pronounced, then the Silent Green might be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and a sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, then the Gateron Type S could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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