Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preferences in typing feel and sound. The Huano Grape Orange switch, a linear switch, is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, making it incredibly effortless to type on, which is particularly appealing for those who engage in long typing sessions. This smoothness allows for rapid keystrokes without the tactile feedback, making it an ideal option for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch offers a distinct clicky feedback that many find satisfying, providing audible and tactile response with each keystroke. This switch may attract those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience, as the audible click can enhance the sensation of typing and improve accuracy by reaffirming each keypress. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Blue feature polycarbonate as their top housing material, granting them a distinctive auditory signature characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The innate stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, ensuring clarity and precision when typing. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate enables RGB lighting to shine through effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. This similar choice of material results in both switches delivering a bright auditory experience and vibrant visual flair when illuminated under RGB lighting, aligning them closely in performance and user experience.

In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, which provides a significantly different acoustic characteristic to the overall typing experience. Nylon's softer composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing more sound than harder materials observe. This unique attribute gives the switches a duller and rounder sound on bottom-out, creating a pleasing auditory contrast to the higher tones produced by the polycarbonate tops. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches means that users will enjoy a hybrid acoustic experience, where the brightness of the top harmonizes with the warmth of the bottom.

Ultimately, while the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Blue share the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the division of acoustic properties underscores the unique feel and sound each switch can bring to the table. By merging the crispness of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon, they each deliver a distinctive typing experience that capitalizes on the strengths of both materials. The result is a consistent performance in terms of sound profiles, allowing users to enjoy both the higher tones upon key release and the robust, fuller sound when bottoming out, regardless of the switch chosen.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. Consequently, those who appreciate lighter switches will favor the Grape Orange, while users seeking a heftier push should consider the Dustproof Blue. The distinct differences emphasize how user preference plays a crucial role in choosing the right switch for typing comfort and typing style.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it's clear that the Grape Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Blue features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience; the Grape Orange, with its shorter travel, offers a more responsive feel that many gamers may prefer for quicker key presses. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue, with a more traditional travel distance, could appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial and deliberate typing experience. Thus, for those seeking rapid response times, the Huano Grape Orange is the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue is ideal for those who prefer a deeper key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is characterized by a quiet operation, producing a subdued sound that allows for a more discreet typing experience. This makes it well-suited for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is notable for its distinct, audible click sound that provides tactile feedback on actuation. This click sound appeals to those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience reminiscent of vintage typewriters, making it ideal for users who appreciate auditory confirmation of their key presses.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch offers an exceptionally smooth experience with its linear design. The low actuation force of 40g allows for effortless key presses, minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue switch features a tactile bump followed by a click, which provides both a noticeable feedback on actuation and a more engaging typing experience. This combination is favored by typists who enjoy the tactile response of each key press, adding a certain level of satisfaction to typing.

Overall, the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Grape Orange is perfect for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Dustproof Blue is ideal for users who value auditory feedback and a more tactile sensation. Depending on your typing style, both switches can deliver enjoyable results; however, the characteristics of each will significantly impact your experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience that allows for long sessions without fatigue, the Grape Orange with its 40g actuation force and smooth linear feel is an excellent choice. Its low resistance makes it ideal for rapid key presses, particularly for gaming or for tasks where speed and efficiency matter. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch, the Dustproof Blue would be more suitable for you. Its heavier bottom out force of 65 grams offers a more significant resistance, which can provide satisfying feedback that some users find enjoyable, especially for typing or coding tasks that benefit from a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, consider how these characteristics align with your priorities—effortless typing or tactile engagement—and choose the switch that enhances your overall experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more