Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch. The Spring Breeze is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying feel and noise of typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its innovative design that focuses on providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and seamless keystroke. Each switch offers unique advantages depending on individual preferences; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
The main difference between the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° housing materials lies in their top housings. The Spring Breeze utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° opts for polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials provide their own unique sound characteristics, the use of nylon in the Spring Breeze offers a more rounded sound, whereas the polycarbonate in the Zero Degree 0° produces a more clear and resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Spring Breeze and the Zero Degree 0° feature nylon as the material. This means that typing on switches with either of these keyboards will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The similarity in bottom housing materials between these two switches may result in a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile, even though they differ in their top housing materials. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a similar level of comfort and familiarity for users of both switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° provide users with distinct sound profiles when typing. The use of nylon in both switches' bottom housing maintains a consistent typing experience in terms of sound, while the choice of nylon for the Spring Breeze's top housing and polycarbonate for the Zero Degree 0° results in contrasting sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Spring Breeze or a sharper and crisper sound with the Zero Degree 0°, the unique housing materials of these switches offer a personalized typing experience for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Spring Breeze may feel slightly easier to type on initially. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Spring Breeze has a heavier force of 55 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° force is unknown. This indicates that the Spring Breeze may provide a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Spring Breeze, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Zero Degree 0° switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Spring Breeze has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm. The Spring Breeze's 4 mm travel distance is more in line with the traditional distance, while the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the longer travel distance of the Spring Breeze. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired 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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for its crisp clicky sound that is satisfying to many typists. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to be ultra-quiet, absorbing sound and reducing noise for a more discreet typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard, you may prefer the audible feedback of the Spring Breeze or the quiet operation of the Zero Degree 0°.
In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze switch offers a tactile bump and audible click when pressed, providing tactile feedback that some users find enhances their typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to be smooth and stable, with a soft, elastic feel that is gentle on the fingers. The linear operation of the Zero Degree 0° switch may be preferred by those who prefer a consistent, uninterrupted keystroke feel without any tactile feedback.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Spring Breeze may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth, linear feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch would be the more suitable option. Remember to also consider other factors such as keycap material and keyboard build, as these can also impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you enjoy the satisfying tactile feedback and audible click of clicky switches, the Spring Breeze is a great choice with its medium-light 55 gram bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and silent typing experience without the tactile bump, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offers a revolutionary design that prioritizes smoothness, stability, and noise reduction. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the type of typing experience you prefer and whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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