Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer distinct typing experiences. The Crystal switch is a linear switch, known for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a unique typing experience. With a neutral sound profile, typing on the Crystal switch is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch is a clicky switch, offering a different tactile feedback compared to the Crystal. While the Dustproof Green switch does not have any specific standout features listed, it may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional clicky typing experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Dustproof Green, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Outemu Crystal features polycarbonate, while the Dustproof Green utilizes nylon. Nylon, being a softer plastic, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This means that the sound and feel of the switches will be influenced differently depending on whether you're pressing down or releasing a key.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Crystal and Dustproof Green switches share similar qualities in their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a clear and resonant sound profile, making them ideal choices for those seeking a sharper typing experience. However, where they diverge is in the bottom housing material. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing amplifies the sound when bottoming out a key, while the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Crystal and Dustproof Green switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch showcase significant differences. The Crystal switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in comparison to the Dustproof Green switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The Crystal switch provides a softer and smoother typing experience, while the Dustproof Green switch offers a more tactile and robust typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Crystal switch, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Green switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience, regardless of the type of switch. The 4mm travel distance ensures that users will have a similar typing experience with either switch. Additionally, both switches provide a smooth keystroke feel, with the linear Crystal switch offering a seamless typing experience, while the clicky Dustproof Green switch provides audible feedback with each key press. Overall, whether choosing the Outemu Crystal or Dustproof Green switch, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a consistent travel distance of 4mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is characterized by a chirpy and high-pitched profile, which gives a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, remember that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard frame and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel descriptor provided for the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, making it harder to draw a direct comparison between the two in terms of typing feel. Nevertheless, if the Crystal switch is polished and smooth, it is likely that the Dustproof Green switch would provide a different tactile experience due to its clicky nature.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is highlighted for its unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have specific descriptors for sound and feel, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in these aspects. However, if you are looking for a smooth and refined typing experience with a slightly chirpy sound, the Crystal switch might be the preferable option. Ultimately, both switches are from the same brand and are likely to offer similar quality and performance in terms of reliability and durability.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a clicky sound profile, the Dustproof Green switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, noise sensitivity, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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