TTC Honey vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Honey is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a tactile typing experience without the added noise. With a deep and pleasant sound profile, the Honey switch falls under categories like 'Subdued' and 'Buttery'. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch boasts durability with its dustproof design, although it lacks a specific standout feature. Known for its satisfying click sound upon actuation, the Dustproof Blue switch does not fall under any categorized descriptions. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference and specific requirements. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Honey and the Outemu Dustproof Blue both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for enhanced lighting effects. In contrast, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing offer different sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the clearer and crisper sound of the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the Honey and the Dustproof Blue differ in their bottom housing material. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When comparing the two switches, it is important to consider how the qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall typing experience. The choice between a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Honey or a deeper, fuller sound with the Dustproof Blue will depend on personal preference and the desired sound outcome.
In terms of keypress dynamics, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. As a result, the difference in housing materials between the two switches will have a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience. The contrasting qualities of polycarbonate and nylon contribute to distinct sound profiles, making the choice between the Honey and the Dustproof Blue a matter of personal preference based on sound preferences and typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials that cater to different sound preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. The Honey switch offers a lighter overall typing experience, while the Dustproof Blue switch requires a bit more force to press down fully. Both switches provide different levels of feedback and resistance, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of a shorter travel distance, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers may prefer the Honey switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster key presses. However, some users may find the Dustproof Blue switch with its longer travel distance to provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The Outemu Dustproof Blue 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
The TTC Honey linear switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, offering a silky sensation and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have any known subjective qualities in terms of feel. In terms of sound, the TTC Honey switch is known for its subdued and pleasant sound profile, providing a dampened yet subtle sound when pressed. Conversely, the sound profile of the Dustproof Blue switch is unknown. Overall, if you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound, the TTC Honey linear switch would be a great option. However, if sound and feel are not top considerations for you, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch may still provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Honey linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a smooth and creamy typing experience with a subtle sound profile, then the TTC Honey linear switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a clicky typing experience, you may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.