Outemu Phoenix vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider. Two popular options in the market are the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, a linear switch. The Phoenix is best known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a singularly distinct typing experience. With a crystalline and sparkling feel, it offers a satisfying crunchiness that clicky switch enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a silenced version of the Ink Black switch, specifically designed for quieter typing environments. Offering a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, it provides a silky smooth typing experience that won't disturb those around you. While these general descriptions give you an initial idea of what each switch has to offer, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the Gateron Silent Ink Black differ in terms of their composition. The Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate used in the Phoenix housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate being relatively stiffer, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While both materials offer a thin and higher-pitched sound, the Phoenix's polycarbonate is described as sharper, whereas the Silent Ink Black's INK blend strikes a balance between being clacky and overly sharp.
In terms of aesthetics, if RGB lighting is a consideration, the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix proves to be especially useful due to its translucency. This allows the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black does not mention any specific benefit or characteristic related to its top housing in terms of RGB lighting. Therefore, it can be inferred that the Silent Ink Black may not have the same level of light transmission as the Phoenix.
Although the top and bottom housings of the switches differ, the overall sound profile and feel of pressing the key is influenced by both. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This suggests that the quality of the bottom housing will determine the overall tactile experience when typing. In contrast, when releasing a key, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced. Both the Phoenix and the Silent Ink Black offer distinctive sound profiles when keys are released, with the Phoenix's polycarbonate creating a crisper sound compared to the Silent Ink Black's INK blend housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Phoenix has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to directly compare to the Silent Ink Black's actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a medium level actuation force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Silent Ink Black's bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Silent Ink Black requires a slightly heavier push to fully bottom out compared to the Phoenix.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the Phoenix are preferred by some individuals as it allows for longer periods of typing without strain. This makes it suitable for keyboards used in work or for extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may opt for switches with heavier forces like the Silent Ink Black.
While the exact actuation force of the Phoenix is unknown, it is likely to provide a similar experience to the Silent Ink Black in terms of actuation. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Ink Black is slightly heavier, providing a slightly more resistant typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for the desired typing experience - lighter and less resistance with the Phoenix or a heavier and more substantial feel with the Silent Ink Black.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparisons, the Silent Ink Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Silent Ink Black falls within the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Phoenix offers a slightly shorter travel distance. This makes the Phoenix more suitable for gamers or individuals looking for faster response times, as shorter travel distances are known for providing quicker feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black may be more appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel during typing due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Phoenix offering a shorter travel distance for a more responsive experience and the Silent Ink Black providing a longer travel distance for a more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a unique and captivating experience. It is known for its crunchy sound that resembles the satisfying feeling of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is designed for environments that require quieter typing. It offers a muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular clicky switches. The Silent Ink Black switch minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more subdued typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and potential factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a silky feel. This means it provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, like the Phoenix switch, the Silent Ink Black switch also boasts a polished finish, resulting in sleek key action. The combination of smoothness and refined finishes in both switches ensures a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a unique and crunchy typing experience with attention-grabbing sound, the Phoenix switch is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a cushion-like bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black switch is more suitable. Both switches provide polished finishes, reducing friction and enhancing the smoothness of the typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of sound and feel. It is worth mentioning that despite their differences, both switches offer high-quality construction and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and satisfying clicky switch, the Outemu Phoenix is the way to go. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. The Phoenix has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a comfortable typing experience. In terms of sound, these switches produce a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is an excellent choice. These linear switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, which gives them a solid and stable feel. The Silent Ink Black switches are best known for their cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. Additionally, they produce a muted sound, reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Phoenix offers a polished experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switches provide a silky typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, they also have a polished finish, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch depends on your preference for clicky or silent typing, as well as the level of tactility and sound you desire. Whether you prioritize a unique clicky experience with a sparkling sound or a quiet and cushioned typing feel, both switches offer distinct advantages. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to make an informed decision. In the end, you can't go wrong with either of these high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
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