Huano Grape Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Red stand out as two noteworthy options in the linear switch category. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, which facilitates an effortless typing experience and makes it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red offers a different appeal with its robust build designed to withstand dust and debris, ensuring durability over time, although specific features are less pronounced. While both switches cater to users seeking smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, the Grape Orange is tailored for those valuing lightness and comfort, while the Dustproof Red emphasizes longevity and resilience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Red feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, which results in a distinctive sound profile that is sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a clear and resonant tonal quality that enhances the auditory experience when typing. Moreover, this material's translucency is ideal for those who utilize RGB lighting, as the light can effectively illuminate the switch to create a visually appealing effect. Consequently, users can expect similar sound characteristics from both switches when it comes to the top housing, making both options suitable for enthusiasts who prioritize sound clarity and aesthetics.

On the other hand, the two switches diverge in their bottom housing material. The Grape Orange utilizes nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more auditory vibrations than harder plastics like polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red also features nylon for its bottom housing, ensuring that both switches deliver that profound typing experience characterized by softer sounds. This harmonic compatibility between the top and bottom housings ensures that on bottom-out, users can still appreciate the rich, rounded acoustic qualities regardless of which switch they choose.

In conclusion, while the top housings of the Huano Grape Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Red are identical in their use of polycarbonate, yielding similar high-pitched sound profiles, the bottom housings also share the same nylon material, which contributes a consistent depth to the overall typing experience. This alignment in materials means that users can achieve similar auditory results, characterized by clarity from the top and richness from the bottom. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, each switch offers distinct advantages that could cater to a diverse range of typing styles without compromising on the overall aesthetic and auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing. This means that the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall, while the Dustproof Red is the heavier switch. Consequently, users seeking a more effortless typing experience will find the Grape Orange preferable, whereas those who prefer a stronger push may lean towards the Dustproof Red. The variations in force between these two switches ensure distinctly different experiences tailored to user preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, the Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter of the two switches, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red's longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press, providing a deeper and more satisfying feel. The differences in travel distances suggest that each switch caters to distinct user preferences, with the Grape Orange leaning towards responsiveness and the Dustproof Red favoring a more traditional, hearty depth in key actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Huano Grape Orange switches are characterized by their remarkably quiet operation. This linear switch produces a subtle sound when pressed, making it well-suited for environments where noise can be an issue, allowing for a more peaceful typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Red switches, on the other hand, also favor a quiet performance, enhancing a similar level of tranquility during use. Both switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but you can expect a relatively subdued auditory feedback from both, making them compatible with office settings or shared environments.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch stands out with its ultra-light 40g actuation force, delivering an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience. Users will appreciate how easy it is to press these keys, minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switches is less defined in this context, leaving users uncertain about their tactile feedback. If you're looking for a light touch and a smooth action, the Grape Orange clearly excels, whereas the Dustproof Red lacks detailed information on its tactile characteristics, making it harder to draw direct comparisons.

Overall, when considering the Huano Grape Orange and Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches, the Grape Orange presents clear advantages with its light actuation force and quiet operation, perfect for prolonged use. While the Dustproof Red shares similar sound qualities, it lacks the detailed feel description, making it difficult to determine how it would compare in terms of user experience. For those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Grape Orange is the preferable choice, though both options can offer a quiet environment depending on their specific implementations in combination with your keyboard and keycaps.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, your choice should be guided by your specific typing preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially for extended sessions, the Grape Orange would be an excellent fit with its 40g actuation force and smooth travel. It's particularly advantageous for those who enjoy a responsive feel and may require less physical effort while typing or gaming. However, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Dustproof Red could be the way to go. It offers a firmer feedback which can help prevent accidental keystrokes, making it suitable for users who engage in precise typing or gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your comfort level and the specific tasks you intend to accomplish with your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more