Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Purple can significantly influence your typing experience. The Grape Orange switch, recognized for its linear design, features an ultra-low actuation force of just 40g, providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience that is particularly suited for long typing sessions. This makes it an ideal choice for typists who prioritize speed and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is a tactile switch, offering a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can enhance typing precision and provide satisfying feedback with each keystroke. While the Grape Orange excels in comfort and speed, the Dustproof Purple caters to those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing feel. 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 Purple Tactile

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, it becomes apparent that both switches share the same construction in their top housing, utilizing polycarbonate. This commonality results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this clarity and resonance, while its translucent nature enhances the visual appeal of RGB lighting setups, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate aesthetic integration in their devices.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches differ, with both employing nylon material. Known for its softer composition, nylon produces a deeper, fuller sound profile that is significantly different from that of polycarbonate. This difference in material properties means that while the top housing contributes to the upward sound when a key is released, the nylon bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and the overall tactile feel of the switch. Consequently, the Grape Orange and the Dustproof Purple provide a hybrid auditory experience, blending the crispness from the polycarbonate top with the rounder notes from the nylon bottom.

In essence, even though both switches have the same polycarbonate top housing, the distinct impact of the nylon bottom housing leads to a balanced and nuanced performance overall. The melding of the sharp sounds from the polycarbonate with the deep tones of the nylon creates a unique typing experience that caters to diverse user preferences. For users seeking a specific auditory profile, these switches may yield similar results in sound clarity due to their top housing, while differing significantly in sound depth and tactile feedback attributable to their contrasting bottom housing materials.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of 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 more suitable for those who prefer a less demanding typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a heftier feel that some users may favor for a more substantial typing experience. While both switches have their unique appeal, the Grape Orange offers a lighter touch overall, while the Dustproof Purple caters to those who appreciate a more forceful keystroke. Therefore, if lighter actuation is a priority, the Grape Orange would be the better choice, while the Dustproof Purple would be more suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Dustproof Purple extends to 4.0 mm, which is considered more traditional. This difference suggests that the Grape Orange might cater better to users who prefer a quicker response time, often favored by gamers who seek that edge in performance. Conversely, the Dustproof Purple's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback, potentially feeling less abrupt during use. Thus, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness—shorter for speed and efficiency versus longer for depth and comfort.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch is designed to offer a sound profile that is smooth and quiet, making it ideal for environments where noise can be a concern. The actuation mechanism promotes a nearly silent keystroke, allowing users to type without drawing much attention. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch’s sound characteristics are currently unknown, which makes it challenging to make a direct comparison. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of each switch may still vary based on the type of keyboard and the keycaps used, so personal preference will play a significant role in the final auditory experience.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch provides a notably light touch, with an actuation force of only 40g, resulting in an effortless typing experience that minimizes fatigue during prolonged use. This linear switch lacks any tactile bump, creating a smooth transition from keypress to bottom out. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple switch features a tactile design with an emphasis on feedback, although specific details regarding its feel are unavailable. Tactile switches typically provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction for users who prefer that tactile sensation.

Overall, both the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Purple switches cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange is an excellent option for those seeking a lightweight and silent typing experience, perfect for extended sessions without the noise. Meanwhile, the Dustproof Purple switch may appeal to users who enjoy tactile feedback, though more information would be needed to understand its performance fully. Depending on your typing style and environment, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but they each excel in distinct aspects that will influence a user's preference.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a light and smooth typing experience, particularly for long hours of usage, the Grape Orange is the ideal choice for you. With its low actuation force of 40 grams and effortless keypresses, it minimizes finger fatigue, making it a great option for writers, gamers, or anyone who types extensively. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a heavier resistance that offers a satisfying bump with each keystroke, the Dustproof Purple is likely to serve you better. Its medium-heavy 65-gram actuation force provides a sense of control and engagement, which can enhance your typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for gaming or fast-paced tasks. Ultimately, consider both your typing habits and what you enjoy in a switch to select the one that will best complement your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more