Outemu vs Gateron Switches: Which One Should You Buy?

In comparing Outemu vs Gateron switches, both brands offer budget-friendly alternatives to Cherry MX switches with notable differences. Outemu switches are typically louder and offer a more tactile feel, while Gateron switches are smoother and quieter. Both provide various switch types, feel, and sound, but Gateron’s smoother performance often appeals to gamers, while Outemu’s tactile response suits typists.

Feature	Outemu Switches	Gateron Switches
Number of Versions	12 types: Linear: Red, Black, Silver  Tactile: Brown, Purple, Orange, Golden Pink, Sky Clicky: Blue, Green, Gold, Ocean	8 types: Linear: Red, Black, Clear, White, Yellow Tactile: Brown Clicky: Blue, Green
Actuation Force	Lowest 50gf & Highest 65gf	Lowest 35gf & Highest 80gf
Travel Distance	4.0mm	4.0mm
Tactility	A bit scratchy	Stability and smooth feel
Durability	Normal	Good
Longevity	50 million keystrokes	50 million keystrokes
Sound Profile	Linear switches: A quiet sound, muted or subdued Tactile switches: A deeper sound profile, sharp and noticeable Clicky switches: High-pitched sound, loud and clicky	Linear switches: Low to medium sound level, smooth and quiet Tactile switches: Medium sound level, a distinct bump, and tactile feedback Clicky switches: Loud sound level, a pronounced click, and audible feedback
Price	Most affordable	More expensive than Outemu, and less expensive than Cherry MX
Best For	Budget-minded users, those who prefer gaming, and heavy keystroke preference	For those seeking a smooth and tactile experience, durability, and longevity

Outemu and Gateron are two popular brands of mechanical switches, each offering distinct features that cater to different preferences:

Outemu switches are budget-friendly mechanical switches that offer decent quality for their price. There are many options for Outemu switches with varying actuation types and sounds, providing a tactile typing experience. Despite their lower cost, Outemu switches provide a satisfactory typing experience, especially with their tactile blue switches.

Gateron switches are often praised as one of the best alternatives to clones of Cherry MX switches, offering smooth actuation and a comfortable typing experience. With eight different versions, Gateron switches are known for their linear options, which are especially favored by gamers and typists alike.

Number of Versions

Winner – Outemu

Outemu offers 12 different types of switches, while Gateron provides 8 variations. Both brands cover the three main categories of mechanical switches: Linear, Tactile, and Clicky. Outemu vs Gateron has similar color-coded switches representing these types, such as Red and Black for Linear, Blue and Green for Clicky, and Brown for Tactile.

However, there are differences in their offerings. Outemu, with its broader range, offers unique options like Purple, Orange, Golden Pink, and Sky compared to 2 colors Yellow and White of Gateron, providing more variety for specific user preferences.

Color	Type	Actuation Force	Travel Distance	Sound
Outemu Blue	Clicky	60gf	4 ± 0.4mm	Relatively quiet sound
Outemu Black	Linear	65gf	4 ± 0.4mm	Tactile bump sound
Outemu Red	Linear	50gf	4 ± 0.4mm	Satisfying feedback without being overly loud
Outemu Brown	Tactile	55gf	4 ± 0.4mm	The quiet and smooth sound
Gateron Clear	Linear	35gf	4 ± 0.6mm	Low
Gateron Red	Linear	45gf	4 ± 0.6mm	The soft and smooth sound
Gateron Yellow	Linear	50gf	4 ± 0.6mm	Low
Gateron Black	Linear	60gf	4 ± 0.6mm	Soft and consistent sound
Gateron Blue	Clicky	60gf	4 ± 0.6mm	Distinctive and satisfying "click" sound
Gateron Green	Clicky	80gf	4 ± 0.6mm	Loud
Gateron Brown	Tactile	55gf	4 ± 0.6mm	Soft and subtle sound

Generally, Gateron offers fewer options to switch types but focuses on quality and smoothness. However, Outemu provides a more diverse selection that covers a wide range of preferences and allows users to choose specific switches that best suit their needs, making it the winner for users who seek variety and affordability.

Activation Force

Winner – Tie

Generally, Outemu switches tend to require slightly more force than Gateron switches, which can impact how quickly and comfortably you can type or game over extended periods.

For the Blue switches, both Outemu and Gateron require a similar activation force of around 60gf, but Outemu Blues are known to feel a bit stiffer. The Black switches also differ slightly, with Outemu Blacks needing 65gf of force compared to Gateron’s 60gf, making Outemu Blacks slightly heavier.

In the Red switches category, Outemu Reds require around 50gf of force, while Gateron Reds are lighter at 45gf, offering a smoother and faster experience. Lastly, the Brown switches are quite comparable, with both Outemu and Gateron requiring about 55gf of force, though Gateron Browns are often described as feeling smoother and less resistant.

Travel Distance

Winner – Tie

Switches Outemu and Gateron generally share similar travel distances, with both brands offering a standard total travel distance of 4mm and an actuation point of 2mm. This similarity provides a familiar feel regardless of the brand, making the choice between them more dependent on other factors like force and tactility.

When comparing the specific types, the Outemu Blues might feel slightly more abrupt due to their stiffer build while Gateron Blacks are often smoother, providing a more consistent feel throughout the keystroke. For Gateron red and Outemu red switches, both maintain the 4mm travel distance, but Gateron Reds generally enhance speed and comfort during fast typing.

Tactility

Winner – Gateron 

Gateron switches are usually softer and more refined, while Outemu switches offer a sharper tactile bump. This difference in feel makes Gateron switches more comfortable for long typing sessions, whereas Outemu’s pronounced tactility can be more satisfying for users who prefer noticeable feedback.

Both Outemu and Gateron Blue switches provide a strong tactile bump, but Gateron’s version is gentler. For Black and Red switches, which are linear, tactility is minimal, but Gateron’s are typically smoother in operation. Outemu or Gateron Brown switches both offer a moderate tactile bump, with Gateron Browns being smoother and less resistant, making them better for extended typing.

Durability

Winner – Gateron 

Despite being a cheaper dupe of Cherry MX, Gateron is not lacking in durability. Many keyboard users say that for the price, they couldn't ask for more durable switches.

On the other hand, Outemu does not receive responses as good as Gateron, making its durability far from compared to the Cherry MX. Also, a small number of users say that after a few years, the switch begins to show signs of problems.

Longevity

Winner – Gateron

Both manufacturers of Gateron and Outemu proclaim that the testing result is 50 million keystrokes for each version. But, according to the keyboard community, Gateron outperforms Outemu in terms of longevity. That makes it worth taking note that you should spend a little bit more to purchase Gateron if using it for a longer time is your top priority.

Sound

Winner – Tie

Outemu switches are known for their sharp, loud clicks, delivering a distinct and tactile auditory experience. This makes them popular among those who prefer noticeable sound feedback while gaming. On the other hand, Gateron switches are praised for their quieter and smoother operation, which is often preferred in quieter environments or shared spaces.

Specifically, Outemu Blue switches are louder and clickier compared to Gateron Blues, while the Outemu red or Gateron red switches from both brands are relatively quiet, with Gateron being slightly softer. Outemu Browns offer a more pronounced tactile sound than Gateron Browns, which are quieter and smoother, making Gateron the better choice for those seeking a subtler typing sound.

Gateron Switches Sound Test:

Outemu Switches Sound Test:

Price

Winner – Outemu

Outemu switches are normally more affordable, around $0.08 to 0.25 per switch, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. They offer good value for the price, especially for those new to mechanical keyboards or looking for a cost-effective option without sacrificing basic performance.

Gateron switches, while slightly more expensive than Outemu at nearly $1 per switch, provide a smoother and more refined typing experience. Their higher cost is often justified by their superior build quality and durability, making them a better long-term investment for users who prioritize a premium feel and consistent performance over time.

Typing experience 

Winner – Outemu

Gateron switches are typically smoother and more comfortable to use over long periods, thanks to their slightly smaller stem design. This results in less friction and a more fluid keystroke, making Gateron switches particularly enjoyable for typing. Outemu switches, while tactile and responsive, may feel stiffer in comparison, which can lead to fatigue during extended typing sessions.

Among the different types, Gateron Browns are often rated the highest for typing due to their balanced tactile feedback and smooth operation. For Outemu, the Blue switches are highly regarded for typing, offering a crisp and tactile feel that many typists prefer, despite being louder.

Overall, Outemu is the winner for users who prioritize a more tactile and responsive typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy a stronger keystroke feel. Though Gateron excels in smoothness, Outemu’s feedback is more satisfying for dedicated typists.

Gaming experience

Winner – Gateron

For gaming, Gateron switches generally offer a smoother and faster experience, making them ideal for gamers who need quick, responsive keystrokes. The actuation force ranges from 35 to 80gf, about 5gf lower than the same-color Outemu, and reduced friction in Gateron linear switches, such as Red and Black, make them particularly suitable for high-speed gaming.

Outemu switches, on the other hand, provide a more tactile and crisp feel, which can be appealing for those who prefer noticeable feedback during gameplay. If you prioritize a smoother, faster gaming experience and are willing to spend a bit more, Gateron is the better choice. 

Gateron is the winner for gaming enthusiasts. Its smoother, quicker response and reduced strain make it the superior choice for gamers who need precision and speed during gameplay. It is suited for those looking for smoother, more responsive performance, and are willing to invest slightly more for that premium experience.

Conclusion

Outemu vs. Gateron Switches, the winner is ‘ting, ting,...’ Gateron. Indeed, there is a reason why the best dupe of Cherry MX has shouted out Gateron’s name.

Compared to Outemu switches, it’s much more durable, long-lasting, stable, and also has a wider actuation force range. Besides, it is even smoother than the original Cherry MX, according to users’ responses. And, its tactile lines are also awesome. Furthermore, Gateron switches are slightly easier to get your hands on.

Outemu is, on the other hand, cheaper in price so it is also a good option if you’re on a tight budget. Besides, its tactile lines are truly awesome and have many good reviews.

We hope this small comparison of ‘Outemu Vs Gateron’ could help you understand the product better before choosing which to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace Gateron switches with Outemu?

Yes, you can as they are both clones of Cherry MX. However, you should check their specs such as mount type and the leg design to know which exact Gateron switch can replace with Outemu.

Are Outemu Blue switches better than Gateron Blues?

Outemu Blue switches are louder and more tactile, providing a sharp clicky feel, which some typists prefer. Gateron Blues, however, offer a smoother and slightly quieter experience. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and click, Outemu is better. For smoother, less abrasive clicks, Gateron is the way to go.

Are Outemu Black switches better than Gateron Blacks?

Outemu Black switches are stiffer, requiring more force to actuate, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a heavier feel. Gateron Blacks, on the other hand, are smoother and require less force, making them more comfortable for extended use. Choose Outemu for a firmer press, or Gateron for a smoother experience.

Are Outemu Red switches better than Gateron Reds?

Outemu Red switches are slightly heavier and less smooth than Gateron, ideal for those seeking a fast, seamless keystroke. Gateron Reds are smoother and lighter, offering a better experience for gamers who need quick, fluid movements. Opt for Outemu if you prefer a bit more resistance, otherwise, Gateron is the better choice.

Are Outemu Brown switches better than Gateron Browns?

Outemu Brown switches provide a more pronounced tactile bump and are more satisfying for typing. Gateron Browns, however, are known for their smoother, lighter tactile feedback, making them more comfortable for longer typing sessions. Choose Outemu for a more tactile feel, or Gateron for a smoother typing experience.