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Huano Acacia vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Huano Acacia, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, providing an incredibly smooth and satisfying typing experience right out of the box. This makes it an excellent choice for those who favor rapid key presses and a quieter operation, ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, subtly enhancing each keystroke with a noticeable bump that signals activation, making it a favored option for typists seeking feedback with their inputs. This tactile feedback can improve typing accuracy and allows for a satisfying audible response, which many users appreciate, especially during long typing sessions. Each switch appeals to different user needs—those who prioritize speed and smoothness might gravitate towards the Acacia, while those desiring tactile feedback may find the Dustproof Brown more satisfying. 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

45g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

55g

Bottom-out force

65g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

POM

Stem material

pom

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

22mm single-staged spring

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The Huano Acacia and Outemu Dustproof Brown feature remarkably similar housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This choice of materials directly influences the acoustic characteristics of each switch. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its stiffness, allowing for higher-pitched and crisper acoustic responses. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, providing an appealing aesthetic that is consistent across both models.

On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing plays a distinct role in shaping the auditory experience. Both the Acacia and the Dustproof Brown benefit from nylon's properties, which include a softer texture that absorbs sound to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice contributes to a more rounded and muted sound when typing, contrasting with the clarity provided by the polycarbonate top. Since nylon contains sound more effectively than stiffer plastics, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, enriching the overall typing experience while allowing for the respective sound adjustments of each switch.

While the materials and their effects on sound differ based on their placements in the switches, the similarities in design yield comparable results in terms of overall sound profiles. Both the Huano Acacia and Outemu Dustproof Brown harness the benefits of polycarbonate's resonance and nylon's sound absorption, creating harmonious typing experiences. Therefore, while the distinct qualities of the bottom and top housings play their roles in sound production, users can expect to enjoy crisp and clear acoustics combined with a full-bodied touch sensation in both models.

Weight

The Huano Acacia linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their bottom out forces despite having the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, making them equally easy to press and suitable for prolonged typing sessions. However, the distinction comes at the bottom out stage, where the Acacia switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Dustproof Brown reaches 65 grams. Consequently, the Acacia switch is the lighter option overall, providing a softer overall experience suitable for users who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Brown results in a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who favor a firmer push feel. Thus, while both switches offer a similar actuation feel, the heavier bottom out of the Outemu Dustproof Brown may be appealing for users seeking more feedback during key presses.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Huano Acacia linear switch measures 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a greater travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Acacia a shorter option compared to the Brown switch. For users who prioritize quick response times, the Acacia's 3.5 mm travel distance may be more appealing as it allows for faster key actuation. Conversely, the Dustproof Brown’s longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback, which some users may find preferable for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

For 10 switches, the Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Brown 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

The Huano Acacia linear switch produces a sound profile that can be characterized as relatively quiet and smooth. This is due to its linear nature, which avoids the clicking noise associated with tactile or clicky switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound is not explicitly mentioned, but tactile switches generally produce a gentle bump sound when bottomed out and released. Therefore, while the Acacia tends to be quieter overall, the Dustproof Brown may have a slightly more audible sound due to its tactile feedback.

When it comes to feel, the Acacia linear switch stands out with its medium-light weight, which allows for a satisfying typing experience with minimal resistance. The generous factory lubrication ensures a smooth keystroke that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the feel of the Dustproof Brown switch is not detailed, leaving its specific tactile feedback and resistance level unspecified. Generally, tactile switches offer a noticeable bump at the actuation point, providing a distinct sensation that some typists may prefer, but without specific information, it's difficult to gauge how it compares.

In summary, the Huano Acacia linear switch is recognized for its quiet operation and smooth keystrokes, making it an approachable option for those who prioritize typing comfort. The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, while lacking detailed insights, is expected to provide a different tactile experience that may suit those who enjoy a bit more feedback during their Typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, with each switch offering unique qualities that can cater to different typing styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a more effortless typing experience with smoother keystrokes and minimal resistance, the Acacia switches may be your go-to option. Their medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, combined with excellent factory lubrication, ensures a pleasant and fluid feel, making them particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are desirable. Conversely, if you appreciate tactile feedback that lets you know exactly when a key has been actuated, you might find the 65-gram actuation force of the Dustproof Brown more appealing. Although they lack the notoriety of the Acacia in terms of typing experience, these switches still offer a solid feel for those who enjoy a more pronounced response with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the smoothness and lightness of the Acacia switches or the tactile feedback and slightly heavier feel of the Dustproof Brown switches.

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