Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Type S, a linear switch. The Spring Breeze is known for its satisfying click feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory confirmation of their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Spring Breeze falls under the clicky switch category, while the Gateron Type S is classified as a linear switch. Both switches have their strengths, with the Spring Breeze offering a tactile typing experience and the Gateron Type S providing a more subtle and refined feel. 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gateron Type S, both switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is known for absorbing sound more effectively than harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. As a result, the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches will be quite similar due to their shared nylon housing material.
However, while both the Spring Breeze and Type S switches have nylon top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of these components may differ slightly between the two. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, any variations in the design or thickness of the nylon housing between the Spring Breeze and Type S switches may result in subtle differences in the typing experience, potentially influencing the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In conclusion, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gateron Type S switches results in similar qualities in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The properties of nylon, such as its softness and sound absorption capabilities, contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. While minor differences in the design of the top and bottom housings may impact the overall typing experience, users can expect a comparable level of sound and feel when using either the Spring Breeze or Type S switches due to their shared nylon housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Type S's heavier 55 grams. This means that the Spring Breeze will require less force to register a keystroke, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Spring Breeze is also lighter at 55 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams. This results in a softer landing when fully pressing down a key on the Spring Breeze, providing a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Type S's heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch offers a lighter and softer typing experience, while the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a heavier and more substantial feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a similar amount of travel distance. As a result, the typing experience and the overall feel of the switches will be quite similar in terms of how far the keys are pressed down. It can be said that the travel distance is equal for both switches, making them suitable options for individuals looking for consistency in their typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches provides a comfortable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for its crisp and tactile click sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, making it a quieter option compared to the Spring Breeze. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the clicky sound of the Spring Breeze for a more pronounced typing experience, while others may appreciate the softer and more understated sound of the Type S for a less disruptive typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the tactile feedback of the Spring Breeze clicky switch provides a distinct bump during actuation, giving users a tactile indication that the key press has been registered. In contrast, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, providing a more fluid typing experience. Whether you prefer the satisfying tactile feedback of the Spring Breeze or the seamless keystrokes of the Type S will depend on your typing style and personal preference.
In conclusion, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Spring Breeze is best suited for those who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, while the Type S is ideal for users who prefer a quieter and smoother keystroke. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and durability, so you can expect reliable and satisfying results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preferences regarding bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter key press, the Spring Breeze with a 55g bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key press, the Type S with a 65g bottom out force may be the better choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a clicky sound with your keystrokes, the Spring Breeze is a great option, whereas if you prefer a more subdued sound, the Type S is ideal. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force and sound profile.
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