Gateron Glory Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Glory Red switches are prized for their linear design, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, which appeals to those who prefer a quieter and uninterrupted typing experience, making them ideal for both gaming and general use. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches are characterized by their clicky feedback, giving a satisfying auditory and tactile response that many typists find enjoyable and engaging, particularly for those who appreciate the classic typewriter feel. While the Glory Red makes an excellent choice for users looking for speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, the Dustproof Blue caters to those who enjoy a more tactile and responsive interaction with their keyboard. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
POK
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, one can immediately observe differences in the top housing composition. The Glory Red features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a more muted acoustic experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the auditory output by providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stems from polycarbonate's stiffer characteristics, resulting in a more resonant experience when typing. Consequently, while the Glory Red may offer a more subdued auditory feedback, the Dustproof Blue appeals to users seeking clarity and brightness in their keystrokes.
The bottom housing of both switches tells a different story, as both the Glory Red and the Dustproof Blue feature nylon as their material of choice. This unification in bottom housing material means that both switches share a common sonic quality; specifically, the deeper and fuller sound associated with nylon is present in both cases. Since the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and tactile feel, users will likely experience a similar physical response when bottoming out the keys, regardless of whether they are using the Glory Red or the Dustproof Blue.
Ultimately, the overall typing experience is shaped by the juxtaposition of the different top and bottom housing combinations. The soft nylon bottom in both cases will contribute to a consistent and rich feel when the key is fully pressed down, while the distinct top housing materials unpack a divergence in the auditory experience. The Glory Red's nylon top lends itself to an enjoyable, rounded sound upon release, while the polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Blue brings a punchier articulation to the sound. Therefore, for users who prioritize sound dynamics in tandem with tactile feedback, the choice between these two switches will come down to whether they favor the rich timbre of nylon or the clarity of polycarbonate for their top housing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Glory Red requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a switch that feels effortless to press, especially beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Furthermore, the Dustproof Blue's bottom out force is quantified at 65 grams, which adds to its medium-heavy tactile experience, although the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown. In essence, the Gateron Glory Red is the lighter option, ideal for those who favor a softer touch, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue’s heavier actuation and bottom out forces deliver a more robust typing experience for users who appreciate that additional resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Blue features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Glory Red is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel favored by gamers who appreciate quicker key presses. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper typing experience, which some users prefer for a more satisfying tactile feedback. Therefore, those who enjoy shorter travel distances that allow for rapid response should consider the Glory Red, whereas those who appreciate a fuller keypress may opt for the Dustproof Blue.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The Outemu Dustproof Blue 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 Gateron Glory Red linear switches are characterized by a sound profile that is muted and nearly silent, making them an ideal choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switches produce a distinct, sharp click sound when activated, providing auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and invigorating. This clicky sound can be more disruptive in shared spaces, as it carries further than the soft keystrokes of the Glory Reds. It's important to consider that sound perception can be influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, which might affect how each switch's sound is ultimately experienced.
When it comes to feel, the Glory Red switches shine with their smooth keystroke and linear action, providing an uninterrupted typing experience without any tactile bump or click, allowing for rapid and fluid typing. The light actuation force contributes to a comfortable experience, especially during extended use. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue switches offer a tactile bump along with the audible click, creating a satisfying feedback loop that encourages deliberate keystrokes. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy, although it requires a bit more force to press down compared to the Glory Reds. The distinct differences in feel cater to different typing preferences, where some may prefer the uninterrupted glide of the Glory Reds while others appreciate the pronounced feedback of the Dustproof Blues.
In summary, the Gateron Glory Red linear switches provide a smooth, quiet, and light typing experience suited for stealthy environments, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches deliver a tactile and clicky sensation that appeals to those who enjoy significant auditory and haptic feedback. Your choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a silent, seamless typing experience or a more engaging, feedback-driven interaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially for tasks like programming or long documents, the Glory Red is likely the best fit for you. With its lighter touch and enjoyable travel distance, it encourages quick and fluid keystrokes without the distraction of sound, making it an excellent option for both casual and professional environments. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile and audible feedback while typing, the Dustproof Blue would be your go-to choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams and clicky sound can enhance your typing experience, providing satisfying feedback and a sense of assurance with each keystroke. This makes it particularly appealing for typists who enjoy a pronounced response and want to feel connected to their work. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you prioritize the smoothness and silence of the Glory Red or the tactile and clicky sensation of the Dustproof Blue.
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