Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Keygeek Raw stands out with its innovative material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight switch that provides a slightly textured feel from the get-go. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches and prefer a textured, mild, neutral, and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch doesn't have a standout feature but offers a reliable, straightforward typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw utilizes a unique Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, which is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. This blend offers a combination of characteristics that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Red switch adds a level of stiffness that contributes to a more clear and resonant sound experience. While both housing materials offer durability and stability, they differ in the sound profiles they produce.
On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw's bottom housing is made from a UMPE & Si blend, which is also exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. This unique blend of materials in the bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing, offering a different tactile sensation compared to the Keygeek Raw.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a significant role. While the Keygeek Raw and Outemu Dustproof Red offer different housing materials for both the top and bottom, the impact on sound and feel varies accordingly. The bottom housing material has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the properties of each housing material can help users choose the switch that aligns best with their preferences for sound and typing feedback.
Weight
The Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch have some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial key press, while the Outemu Dustproof Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw requires 57.5 grams to fully press the key, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Red needs 60 grams, making them quite similar in terms of the force needed to fully press down. Some users may prefer the lightweight feel of the Keygeek Raw for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier touch of the Outemu Dustproof Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Red. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Red may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their travel distances, so selecting the one that aligns with your personal preferences is key to a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The Outemu Dustproof Red 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 it comes to sound, the Keygeek Raw offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other components of your keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Keygeek Raw provides a textured typing experience with a mild resistance that is approachable to most users. The switch offers a subtle feel that is gentle and not overly pronounced, making it suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is not specified.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches have unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. While the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its creamy yet lightweight material blend and textured feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch does not have publicly available information on its qualities. As such, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle, textured feel, the Keygeek Raw may be a suitable option. Alternatively, for users interested in the Outemu Dustproof Red switch, further research or personal testing may be necessary to determine its subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences and needs. If you value a unique material blend that offers a creamy yet lightweight typing experience and prefer to hand-lube your switches, the Keygeek Raw may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Red could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as typing feel, sound, and the specific features that align with your preferences as a keyboard enthusiast.
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