Outemu Silent Grey vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can seem overwhelming. Two popular switches to consider are the Outemu Silent Grey, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch. The Silent Grey is favored for its quiet and highly tactile typing experience, offering a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that is perfect for those seeking a satisfying yet silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them stand out, making it important to consider your preferences and typing style when choosing between them. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in these housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches have similar top housings, they differ in their bottom housings. The Silent Grey utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics.
The differences between the Silent Grey and the Zero Degree 0° become more evident when examining their bottom housing materials. The Silent Grey's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Zero Degree 0°, which also features a nylon bottom housing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the Silent Grey switch. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° also benefits from the characteristics of nylon in its bottom housing, offering a similarly pleasant typing experience with a rounder sound profile.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing materials, the Silent Grey and Zero Degree 0° provide distinct typing experiences due to their differing bottom housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing is more evident in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Despite these variations in housing materials, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see some differences between the two. The Silent Grey has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° with 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Grey is also heavier at 65 grams, whereas the Zero Degree 0° has an unknown bottom out force. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Zero Degree 0° switch due to its lower actuation force, while those seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the Silent Grey. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance for typing and gaming, the Silent Grey provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Zero Degree 0°. Gamers may favor the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Silent Grey. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key feel.
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 Grey 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
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Silent Grey provides a quiet and tactile typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a silent typing experience with its innovative design that focuses on smoothness, stability, and sound absorption. Depending on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness, you can choose between the Silent Grey for a satisfying tactile experience or the Zero Degree 0° for a silky smooth typing experience. Be sure to consider all factors such as sound, feel, and personal preference when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience and noise levels. If you value a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, stability, and noise reduction in a linear switch with a unique self-padding design and dual-rail structure, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired sound profile.
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