Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Peach mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that boasts a gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, making it an ideal choice for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach is a linear switch that offers a feathery light typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lightweight switch. While the Mini i is praised for its bouncy and easy-to-press keys, the Peach is recognized for its muted and subtle typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Peach are quite similar, as both switches use nylon for both their top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users of both switches. With both switches utilizing nylon for their housing, users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on either switch.
However, while the housing materials are the same for the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Peach, the key difference may lie in the overall build quality and design of the switches. The Gateron Mini i may offer a smoother typing experience or have a different actuation force compared to the Outemu Peach, which could impact the overall feel and performance of the switches. Despite both switches having nylon top and bottom housings, these additional factors can play a role in determining which switch is ultimately preferred by users.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Peach are quite alike, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material creates a similar typing experience for users, with a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of nylon switches. While the housing materials may be consistent between the two switches, differences in the overall build quality and design may affect the typing experience and preference of users. Ultimately, personal preferences such as typing feel and actuation force may influence which switch is favored by individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that they are identical in terms of weight. Both switches have an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally light. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Peach will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, we see that the Mini i offers a slightly longer distance of 3.4mm compared to the Peach's 3.3mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range which is preferred by gamers for quicker response times. The difference between the two distances may not be significant enough to notice in practical use, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press, or a slightly shorter distance for faster responses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Peach comes in at $3.40.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch both fall into the neutral category, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. However, the Peach switch is also described as having a muted sound profile, making it quieter than the Mini i. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can provide a satisfying and relatively quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. On the other hand, the Peach switch is described as mild, subtle, and polished. Both switches provide a gentle typing experience with a light feel, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The Mini i offers a more lively and responsive feedback due to its bouncy and snappy characteristics, while the Peach switch provides a smooth and refined typing experience with its polished attribute.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, with slight differences in their sound profiles and tactile feedback. Both switches are lightweight and ideal for comfortable typing, whether in an office setting or for personal use. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're looking for a switch that provides a subtle tactility and a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Mini i would be a great choice. This switch is ideal for office settings or anywhere noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, the Outemu Peach linear switch would be perfect for you. These switches are great for linear switch enthusiasts who want a gentle typing feel without the distracting noise. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactility and sound profile, so choose the one that best fits your typing needs.
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