Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Black

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's crucial to consider the typing experience each option offers, and two popular linear switches to explore are the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Black. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its remarkably light 40g actuation force, allowing for an effortless typing experience ideal for long periods of use, making it a favorable choice for typists and gamers who prefer quick, responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, although the Outemu Dustproof Black does not have specific standout features, its robust construction is designed to reduce the ingress of dust and debris, potentially enhancing durability and performance over time. Both switches cater to different user preferences, with the Grape Orange excelling in speed and lightness, while the Dustproof Black focuses on longevity and reliability. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This shared material choice stems from polycarbonate’s inherent properties; being a stiffer plastic, it enhances clarity and resonance, making the switches particularly appealing for applications where sound fidelity is essential, such as gaming or typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, ensuring that visually appealing lighting can accentuate the aesthetic of both switches, regardless of the brand.

While the top housings of both switches are identical in material, the bottom housings diverge with each employing nylon. This choice introduces a contrasting auditory profile that complements the clarity provided by the polycarbonate top. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively and contributes a deeper, fuller tone. When pressing keys, users will experience this deeper sound from the nylon bottom, providing a rounded auditory element that balances the crispness of the polycarbonate top. Thus, while both switches employ the same materials in their respective top and bottom housings, this contrast enhances the overall typing experience, showcasing a duality in sound signature.

Ultimately, the combination of these materials creates a synergistic effect in both switches, where the contrasting qualities of polycarbonate and nylon work in harmony. Although the Grape Orange and Dustproof Black provide different sound profiles when activated, the shared polycarbonate top and nylon bottom ensure some consistency in user experience. This intentional design allows the switches to achieve a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience, wherein the clarity from the polycarbonate can be appreciated alongside the bass-rich depth offered by the nylon—meaning users can expect both vibrant lighting effects and rich sound quality in either switch.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who favor a stronger push feel. As a result, the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the Dustproof Black is the heavier one, catering to different preferences in typing feel and endurance. Overall, users looking for a low-effort keystroke will gravitate toward the Grape Orange, while those who enjoy a firmer typing experience may prefer the Dustproof Black.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Black measures at 4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter option, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Dustproof Black offers a longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial pressing feel. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Grape Orange’s shorter distance might be more suitable for you, whereas if you desire a more pronounced depth, the Dustproof Black is the way to go.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When examining the sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Black switches, the Grape Orange is known for its distinctively muted acoustic signature that aligns with its linear design, making it particularly suitable for quiet typing environments. The Dustproof Black switch, while lacking a specific sound profile description, typically follows a similar linear characteristic that generally results in a quiet operation, especially when used with the right keycaps and a suitable keyboard. Thus, both switches are likely to yield a relatively subdued sound during use.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is renowned for its light and smooth keystrokes, providing an exceptionally effortless typing experience thanks to its ultra-low actuation force of 40g. This feature makes it an excellent choice for extended typing, as it reduces fatigue over long sessions. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Black lacks a detailed description regarding its feel. However, being a linear switch, it can generally be anticipated to offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click, similar to the Grape Orange, although the specific resistance or actuation force may vary.

In conclusion, while the Huano Grape Orange switch stands out for its remarkably light actuation force and quiet typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch remains somewhat ambiguous in terms of specific characteristics. However, both switches share a linear design that suggests a quiet operation and a smooth feel during typing, making them well-suited for users seeking a serene and fluid typing experience. While the Grape Orange offers more defined qualities, newcomers can expect similar results in sound and feel from the Dustproof Black, particularly if they align their choices with compatible keycaps and keyboard builds.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter switch that allows for rapid key presses and less finger fatigue—especially during extended typing sessions—the Grape Orange is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force of 40 grams enables effortless typing, making it ideal for writers and gamers who require swift and frequent inputs. On the other hand, if you value a more substantial key feel that can help prevent accidental presses, the Dustproof Black, with its heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams, might be better suited for you. This switch could appeal to those who like a sturdier and more tactile typing experience. Additionally, if sound and feedback during typing are paramount for you, you may want to consider the descriptions of both switches that match your audio preferences, even though these specifics have not been provided. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal comfort, typing style, and the activities in which you engage most frequently.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more