Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both offer tactile feedback that caters to different typing preferences, albeit with distinct characteristics. The Gateron Aliaz shines in quiet environments, like offices, where its silent design allows for a muted typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feel that many typists cherish. With a medium-heavy weight, it provides a substantial response on each keystroke, making it ideal for those seeking a polished and refined typing experience while minimizing noise. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks a specific standout feature, but its durability and dustproof design can appeal to those wanting a reliable switch that withstands daily wear and tear, albeit with less focus on sound dampening. While both switches cater to tactile aficionados, their unique attributes cater to particular needs within the typing landscape. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches both feature polycarbonate material in their top housings, leading to similar auditory characteristics. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. Consequently, both switches will provide a satisfying acoustic response during keypresses, particularly when utilizing RGB lighting elements. This translucent material emphasizes brightness and clarity, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches by allowing RGB lighting to shine through effectively. As a result, users looking for a crisp sound profile will find both switch types appealing when considering their upper housing materials.

However, the differences between the two switches emerge prominently at the bottom housing level. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances its clear and resonant sound profile, maintaining a consistent tonal experience from both the top and bottom. In stark contrast, the Dustproof Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound and resulting in a softer acoustic response. This difference means that the Dustproof Brown switch will give users a more muted typing experience as it dulls the sound compared to the Aliaz, making it better suited for those who prefer a less pronounced auditory feedback while typing.

Ultimately, the combined effect of the materials used in both switches results in distinguishing acoustic characteristics. The Gateron Aliaz aims for clarity and brightness throughout both its top and bottom housings, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown mixes a crisper top with a deeper bottom, yielding a unique sound profile that dampens the higher frequencies. For users that appreciate crisp acoustics, the Aliaz would be ideal, whereas those who seek a fuller and more subdued auditory experience may find themselves drawn to the Dustproof Brown. Each switch accommodates various preferences depending on how individuals interact with the sound generated by the different housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a medium-heavy feel. As a result, users who prioritize a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might prefer the Outemu Dustproof Brown due to its lower actuation force. Conversely, those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier switch may favor the Gateron Aliaz. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the distinct preferences in switch weights, appealing to various typing styles.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same distance of key travel, resulting in similar tactile feedback during use. Since both switches share this travel distance, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of key actuation and overall feel, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a tactile response without any significant difference in travel depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, the Aliaz clearly stands out. The Aliaz offers a muted sound profile, designed specifically for quiet environments like offices, which helps maintain a serene atmosphere while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks a defined sound characteristic, making it harder to assess its overall auditory profile. However, it's worth noting that the sound produced by any switch can vary significantly depending on the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used, so there may still be similarities in sound depending on these factors.

Regarding the tactile feel, the Aliaz excels with its silky and polished characteristics. These traits contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and friction during key presses. The polished finish ensures a refined and sleek sensation as fingers glide across the keys, enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown does not have a clearly defined feel profile, which leaves a gap in comparison. Therefore, while the Aliaz provides a superior tactile experience, the Dustproof Brown's qualities remain unknown, making direct comparisons challenging.

In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is notably superior in both sound and feel when compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown. The Aliaz excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience, ideal for silent office settings, while the characteristics of the Dustproof Brown are less clear, leaving potential users with uncertainty. For those prioritizing a muted sound and a polished tactile experience, the Aliaz is undoubtedly the better choice, while the performance of the Dustproof Brown remains a mystery.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch largely depends on your environment and preferences. If you find yourself in a quiet workspace or prefer a subdued typing experience, the Aliaz is the superior option due to its silent design and heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams, which offers a pronounced feedback that still minimizes noise. This makes them particularly well-suited for office settings or shared spaces where loud keystrokes may be disruptive. Additionally, the Aliaz provides a silky and polished feel, enhancing your overall typing experience with smoothness and reduced friction. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more versatile switch that balances both tactile feedback and a lighter actuation force, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, with its medium-heavy 65 grams bottom-out force, might be your ideal choice. While it does not boast the same level of noise reduction or smooth feel as the Aliaz, it offers a reliable tactile experience, making it a solid option for general use in various settings. Ultimately, the decision rests on your specific typing environment and the tactile sensations you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more