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Bsun Cliff vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches can make all the difference. The Bsun Cliff, known for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, offers a satisfying feedback that many typists and gamers alike appreciate. Tactile switches like the Cliff provide a noticeable bump during key presses, making them ideal for those who prefer precision and an auditory cue for each stroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch, a linear switch, caters to users seeking a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bump found in the Cliff. Linear switches like the Dustproof Red allow for seamless, noiseless typing, making them particularly popular among gamers who require rapid key presses without distractions. Both switches have their unique benefits: the Cliff for its satisfying feedback and sound, and the Dustproof Red for its fluid and quiet operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

37g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

45g

Bottom-out force

60g

Pre-travel

2.30 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

Ly

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

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The Bsun Cliff and the Outemu Dustproof Red both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a distinctly sharp and crisp sound profile when typing. This similarity arises from the nature of polycarbonate as a stiffer plastic, which contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience. Moreover, the use of clear materials in the top housing increases the aesthetic appeal, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. This shared characteristic means that users of both switches can expect a visually striking effect during use without sacrificing sound clarity, which is an important factor for many gamers and typists when choosing a switch.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge in their material, yet retain the same composition: both the Cliff and Outemu Dustproof Red feature nylon in their bottom housing design. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This results in a softer feel when bottoming out, providing a pleasant typing experience that contrasts with the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. While both switches share a similar top housing material, the nylon bottom contributes to a rounded sound experience, allowing for a more balanced auditory output upon key presses and releases.

The combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Bsun Cliff and Outemu Dustproof Red results in a unique interplay of sound characteristics. As the polycarbonate top enhances the clarity and pitch of the keypresses while the nylon bottom delivers a warmer and deeper resonance, users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience. This hybrid of materials caters to those who value both aesthetic and auditory features in their switches, demonstrating that even with slight variances in housing materials, comparable results can be achieved through a careful selection of materials that complement each other effectively.

Weight

The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions where fatigue could be a concern. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, providing a firmer feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, those who favor a lighter keypress will gravitate towards the Bsun Cliff, while those who appreciate a heavier switch will find the Outemu Dustproof Red more appealing. This difference in actuation force suggests that users may experience varied typing dynamics; however, both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences.

Travel distance

The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cliff switch provides a more responsive feel, appealing particularly to gamers who favor quicker actuation times for enhanced gameplay. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more traditional experience for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke and a less abrupt tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you value increased responsiveness and speed, the Bsun Cliff is the better option, while the Outemu Dustproof Red will cater to those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.

The Outemu Dustproof Red 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

The Bsun Cliff tactile switch is noted for its crisp sound signature, which adds a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This characteristic can create an engaging typing experience, particularly for users who enjoy the acoustic aspect of their keyboard. The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, on the other hand, is designed as a quieter option, focusing more on smooth operation without an audible click. The sound produced by the Dustproof Red will generally be subdued, contributing to a more muted typing experience. It's important to remember that the overall sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, which can enhance or dampen the acoustics of each switch.

When it comes to feel, the Bsun Cliff offers a medium tactility that provides a noticeable bump during the keypress, allowing users to experience clear feedback when they actuate a key. This tactile sensation can help improve typing accuracy, as it gives a clear indication of when a key has been registered. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch lacks this tactile feedback and is characterized by its smooth key presses from top to bottom. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a more fluid experience without any interruptions during typing or gaming, as there is no tactile bump to overcome.

In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch stands out with its medium tactility and crisp acoustics, making it a great choice for those who appreciate distinct auditory feedback and a pronounced tactile feel. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch caters to users seeking a quieter and smoother experience with its linear action. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences, and the choice between them will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and use case scenarios. If you enjoy typing with a responsive tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the Cliff switch may be the better option for you, especially given its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams. This can make long typing sessions more comfortable, allowing you to type quickly and accurately while enjoying its crisp sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke without tactile bumps for activities like gaming, where quick key presses matter, the Outemu Dustproof Red with its heavier 60-gram force would likely suit you better. This switch offers a linear feel that is consistent from top to bottom, perfect for those who favor silent operation and minimal resistance. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and lighter actuation with the Bsun Cliff, or the smooth, consistent performance found in the Outemu Dustproof Red.

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