Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we see two distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts to consider. The Gateron Mini i is praised for its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making it an excellent choice for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey offers a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, appealing to those who seek a satisfying yet silent typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Grey switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing. The Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Mini i's nylon bottom housing shares similar qualities to the top housing, the Silent Grey utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and fuller sound profile for both switches.
However, the differences in housing materials extend to the overall typing experience of these switches. The Mini i's nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the Silent Grey's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience to the Mini i in terms of sound profile. The top housing, whether nylon for the Mini i or polycarbonate for the Silent Grey, plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, adding a distinct element to the typing experience.
In summary, while the Mini i and the Silent Grey switches have differing top housing materials in nylon and polycarbonate, respectively, their bottom housing materials are both nylon, resulting in similar deep and fuller sound profiles. The choice of housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, impacts the sound and feel of typing on these switches, with the top housing affecting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Grey will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch. The Mini i requires only 40 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Silent Grey switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel. Choosing between the two depends on individual preferences, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier switches for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gateron Mini i has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Silent Grey. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Silent Grey's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preferences, with the Mini i providing a quicker keystroke and the Silent Grey offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
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 Silent Grey comes in at $3.10.
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 Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Grey switches offer different experiences. The Mini i is known for its fairly muted sound profile that provides a quiet typing experience suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches are specifically designed to be silent, offering a quiet typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Both switches may result in similar sound levels, but the Mini i provides a more neutral sound profile, while the Silent Grey ensures a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Grey switches also offer distinct qualities. The Mini i switches are described as bouncy and easy-to-press, providing a lively and responsive typing experience with minimal force required for activation. They have a mild and subtle feel, making them approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches are known for their highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, offering a satisfying and quiet typing experience. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Mini i provides a more gentle and easy-to-press feel, while the Silent Grey offers a more pronounced tactile experience.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i and Outemu Silent Grey switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i is best suited for those looking for a quiet typing experience with a balanced sound profile and light typing feel, ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches are perfect for individuals seeking a highly tactile and silent typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound level and tactile feedback desired for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a subtle tactile feedback for long hours of comfortable typing in a quiet office environment, then the Gateron Mini i switch would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying and silent typing experience, then the Outemu Silent Grey switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and the level of noise tolerance in your workspace.
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