Outemu Silent Green vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Silent Green is best known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that dampens sound and minimizes noise. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience, with the Silent Green focusing on silence and the Zero Degree 0° prioritizing smoothness and stability. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic options, users can expect similar results from both the Silent Green and Zero Degree 0° switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the Silent Green and Zero Degree 0° differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Silent Green features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of a sharper and clearer sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing materials will likely lead to a noticeable difference in the typing experience for users of these switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a mechanical switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. With the Silent Green and Zero Degree 0° switches, users have the opportunity to experience the distinct characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in both the top and bottom housings. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound profile in their polycarbonate top housing, the Silent Green's continued use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing maintains this sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience for users seeking a different tactile feel. The combination of these housing materials allows for a varied typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Silent Green has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Silent Green is the heavier of the two switches. The actuation force being the same indicates that users will experience a similar level of sensitivity and responsiveness when typing on either switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Zero Degree 0°, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Silent Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Green 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. This makes the Silent Green the longer of the two switches. The 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press sensation, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch is slightly shorter, catering to those who prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback due to their travel distances, with the Silent Green providing a more substantial feel and the Zero Degree 0° offering a quicker keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silent Green 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 Silent Green switches are known for offering a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch stands out for its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, providing a silent typing experience. Both switches aim to reduce the noise level, but the Zero Degree 0° switch takes it a step further with its unique features.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Green switches are known for their linear feel without any tactile bump, offering a smooth typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is said to provide unparalleled smoothness and stability, contributing to a soft and elastic feel while typing. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, with the Zero Degree 0° switch incorporating additional features to enhance comfort.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Green and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches both prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch stands out for its innovative design aimed at reducing noise. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience with minimal sound disturbance. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific features that appeal to you the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, best-known features, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a reputation for being well-rounded, the Silent Green may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value innovation in design and are seeking a switch that offers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and priorities when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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