Outemu Phoenix vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch stand out as unique options with distinct characteristics. The Phoenix is renowned for its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling typing experience categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron revolutionizes silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness and stability while absorbing sound and reducing noise. Each switch presents compelling reasons to choose it, whether you prefer the clicky tactile feedback of the Phoenix or the quiet operation of the Zero Degree 0°. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The Outemu Phoenix and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing continues this trend, offering a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall experience of a switch. The Outemu Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing, along with the top housing, contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile that is consistent throughout typing. In comparison, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound quality, providing a different tactile feel during typing. While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials give each switch a distinct sound signature.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, with the Phoenix incorporating this material in both the top and bottom housing for consistency. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound, creating a different typing experience. Whether one prefers the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams. Therefore, the Phoenix is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Zero Degree 0° is lighter in terms of actuation force. Both switches have a force of None grams in one aspect, making them similar in that regard. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. A shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Both switches offer slightly different experiences in terms of travel distance, so individuals can choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the Phoenix provides a unique and crisp "crunchy" sound experience typically associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is known for its silent typing revolution, focusing on reducing noise with its smooth and stable design. Depending on personal preference, the Phoenix offers a more tactile and audible typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silence and smoothness.
In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch boasts a polished and refined typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek feel. Meanwhile, the Zero Degree 0° switch is designed to provide unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Again, the decision between the two switches would come down to individual preferences for either a tactile and refined typing experience or a silent and smooth one.
Overall, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix provides a unique and crunchy clicky sound along with a polished typing feel, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing with a smooth and stable feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer high-quality performance with their own unique characteristics, providing a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a unique clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and a crystalline sound profile, the Phoenix may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and silent typing experience with a bottom out force of 0 grams, the Zero Degree 0° could be the better option. Consider the characteristics of each switch, such as sound and feel, to determine which one aligns best with your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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