HMX Deep Navy vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Brown present two distinct options tailored to varying user preferences. The Deep Navy is renowned for its immersive and rich sound profile, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem design. As a linear switch, it provides a quieter operation with no tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a seamless and uninterrupted keystroke, particularly during gaming or extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is a tactile option, known for its subtle feedback that provides users with a satisfying indication of actuation without the audible click commonly associated with other tactile switches. This makes it suitable for typists who value a balance between feedback and a relatively quiet typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a distinct contrast can be noted in the choice of plastics for their top housings. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon, a softer plastic known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This acoustic property is particularly advantageous for those who prefer a more muted sound profile. In stark contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is markedly stiffer. Consequently, this choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that offers a cleaner, more resonant typing experience. The aesthetic aspect also plays a role, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a desirable option for gamers and enthusiasts seeking visual flair.
While the top housings of the two switches significantly differ in materials and resultant sound characteristics, their bottom housings share a commonality. Both the HMX Deep Navy and the Dustproof Brown employ nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes a fuller and deeper sound profile. Since nylon's properties are uniform in both switches, users can expect a similar typing feel when engaging the bottom of the switch. The sound created from the bottom housing's impact during keypresses will have a rounder quality due to nylon's inherent sound-absorbing nature, regardless of the contrasting top housing materials. This convergence in bottom housing composition assures a consistent typing experience beneath the unique top sounds provided by each switch's respective material.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of both switches illustrates a nuanced interaction between them. The Deep Navy's nylon top housing absorbs and softens the sound produced during key releases, while the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures that, at the core of their design, the tactile feedback remains rooted in a fuller sound experience when pressing down on the keys. Thus, while one switch may focus on a more muted auditory profile and the other on a sharper sound, users can achieve a pleasurable typing experience from both due to their shared bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Deep Navy switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions and gaming due to the reduced effort required for activation. Conversely, the Dustproof Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. Consequently, if you prioritize a light touch for comfort over long periods, the Deep Navy switch is a better fit; however, if you enjoy the sensation of a firmer key press, the Outemu Dustproof Brown would be more appropriate. In summary, the Deep Navy switch is lighter and offers a more effortless typing experience, while the Dustproof Brown switch is heavier and provides a more forceful typing dynamic.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference makes the Deep Navy the shorter option, appealing to those who favor a more responsive keypress often preferred by gamers. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown offers a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial depth during typing. While both switches provide unique tactile experiences, choosing the Deep Navy will result in quicker actuation, whereas the Dustproof Brown may be more suitable for those who enjoy a fuller keypress sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Outemu Dustproof Brown 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 HMX Deep Navy linear switch presents a rich and sharp sound profile, characterized by its full nylon construction, which contributes to a distinctive auditory experience when typing. The design emphasizes a smooth keystroke that resonates well, making each press feel resonant and satisfying. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch lacks documented sound characteristics, which leaves its auditory identity somewhat undefined and subjective to the build it’s used with. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the plate material.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is renowned for its silky smoothness, attributed to the Ly stem, providing a consistent and uniform experience with every keystroke. This smooth action enables quick and seamless typing, ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch, classified as tactile, does not have specific feel descriptors available, leaving it open to interpretation. Generally, tactile switches like the Brown are known for a noticeable bump upon actuation, giving feedback that can enhance typists’ accuracy.
In summary, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch stands out with its impressive sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an appealing choice for anyone seeking a refined typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Brown, while lacking detailed information on sound and feel, points towards a more traditional tactile typing experience. Overall, if you're considering these switches, the Deep Navy offers a more defined auditory and tactile experience, while the Dustproof Brown may provide a classic touch but remains somewhat of a question mark without additional details.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a light, smooth keystroke with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Deep Navy is an excellent option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, where quick and effortless actuation is crucial. The rich sound profile adds an immersive quality that enhances the typing experience, which some users find both enjoyable and satisfying. On the other hand, if you value tactile feedback and a more deliberate typing feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown with its 65-gram resistance is the way to go. The heavier actuation force encourages a slower, more thoughtful typing style, making it suitable for tasks like programming or long writing sessions where precision and feedback are key. Ultimately, we recommend considering both your typing style and the typical applications when choosing between these two switches, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard perfectly complements your needs.
Mentioned in this article
