Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer distinct advantages depending on the user's preference. The Aliaz switch is perfect for quiet environments such as offices, thanks to its silent design and medium-heavy weight. This switch provides a substantial feel to each keystroke, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific standout feature, but it is known for its clicky feedback. While the Aliaz offers a 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished' typing experience, the Dustproof Purple falls into a different category altogether. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Purple both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, known for being a relatively stiff plastic, contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aliaz has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dustproof Purple features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Purple showcase a sharp and clear sound profile attributed to their polycarbonate top housing. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Dustproof Purple may differ in terms of bottom housing, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches delivers a sharp and clear sound ideal for RGB lighting setups, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal sound preferences and priorities when it comes to typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is clear that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dustproof Purple. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 75 grams to bottom out, while the Dustproof Purple only requires 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Dustproof Purple offers a slightly lighter touch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals who prefer either a heavier or lighter weight when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth. Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Dustproof Purple switches provide a consistent typing experience with their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted qualities, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it a great option for shared workspaces or environments where loud typing would be disruptive. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aliaz switch is described as having a silky and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. This can contribute to a more comfortable and satisfying typing sensation for users who appreciate a smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is not provided, limiting our ability to contrast the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy weight and smooth key travel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more subdued mechanical keyboard option. While the specific characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are unknown, it is safe to say that the Gateron Aliaz switch would likely offer similar qualities in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences for typing sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet switch suitable for office environments with a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound level, and the intended usage environment. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so make sure to consider these factors before making your final choice.
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