Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer distinct yet appealing experiences for different users. The Grape Orange, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of only 40g, enabling an effortless and smooth typing experience ideal for lengthy sessions without fatigue. This makes it a fantastic choice for typists and gamers who prioritize speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch known for its feedback and resistance, providing a satisfying "bump" during key presses that can enhance typing accuracy and give users a more engaged feel. This switch appeals to those who appreciate tactile feedback while typing, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference—whether one favors the smoothness of linear switches or the feedback of tactile types. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches showcase notable similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the inherent properties of polycarbonate, which contributes to a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This stiffness in the plastic enhances the resonance, leading to a clearer audio experience when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an attractive choice for those who want to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination through the housing. Consequently, users can expect a similarly bright aesthetic and auditory experience with both switches, making them well-suited for RGB setups.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Grape Orange and Dustproof Brown switches employs nylon, a material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the top housing's polycarbonate lends clarity to key releases, the nylon bottom housing absorbs sound more effectively due to its softer composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound during key presses, creating an overall auditory experience that is rich and pleasing. Therefore, while both switches employ a similar construction strategy in their top housings, the nylon bottom housings ensure that each switch brings its unique character to the typing experience, balancing the clarity of the upper sections with the fullness of the lower sections.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches means that users can achieve a harmonious blend of sound quality and aesthetic appeal with either option. Both switches offer a similar auditory signature during key releases due to the polycarbonate, contrasted by a warmer, fuller sound attributed to the nylon bottoms when pressed. This synergy between the two different housing materials ensures that despite minor differences in sound characteristics, users will experience a satisfying performance and a vibrant visual when utilizing switches with these respective materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, we notice distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during extended use such as work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who might favor a firmer feel while typing. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Grape Orange is 50 grams, compared to the heavier 65 grams of the Dustproof Brown. This further emphasizes the substantial feel provided by the Dustproof Brown, catering to users who appreciate a more tactile response. Overall, if you prefer lighter switches for comfort, the Grape Orange would be the better option, while those seeking more resistance and a sturdier typing experience might gravitate towards the Dustproof Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it becomes evident that the Grape Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Dustproof Brown's 4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange can provide a quicker, more responsive typing experience, making it appealing to gamers and those who favor faster keypresses. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for a more tactile experience. Thus, if you prefer a snappier response, the Grape Orange is the better choice, while the Dustproof Brown caters to those who enjoy a deeper keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, the Grape Orange switches offer a smooth and quiet typing experience as they lack the tactile bump found in many other switch types. This characteristic allows for a more subdued sound, making them ideal for environments where noise might be disruptive. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switches typically produce a soft, muted sound associated with tactile switches due to its tactile feedback. However, the auditory experience can vary significantly depending on the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Huano Grape Orange linear switches are celebrated for their exceptionally light and smooth action, requiring only a 40g actuation force. This light touch enhances the fluidity of typing, allowing for faster key presses and more enjoyable extended usage without finger fatigue. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches are characterized by their tactile bump, providing a distinct sensation at the point of actuation. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying experience for those who prefer knowing exactly when a key has been activated, although they generally require a higher force to actuate, offering a different level of engagement.
Overall, the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches cater to different preferences in typing experience. While the Grape Orange excels in providing a light and quiet experience, making it ideal for prolonged use, the Dustproof Brown appeals to users who appreciate tactile feedback and a more pronounced actuation point. Your choice between these switches will ultimately depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as each offers unique strengths that can greatly influence your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch should be guided by your specific typing preferences and scenarios. If you value a smooth and rapid keystroke with minimal resistance for long periods of typing, the Grape Orange is an ideal option. Its light actuation force of 40 grams allows for quick response times, making it excellent for both gaming and extensive text input without causing fatigue. This switch is suitable for users who prefer a quieter environment, as it tends to be less noisy compared to tactile switches. Conversely, if you find comfort in tactile feedback while typing, the Dustproof Brown would be well-suited for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams provides a satisfying resistance that can improve typing accuracy, and the tactile bump gives you a clear indication of actuation. This switch is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy typing or gaming with a feeling of physical cue, enhancing the overall typing experience. Therefore, consider your typing habits, noise tolerance, and the importance of feedback when choosing between these two switches to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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