Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Lavender and Outemu Dustproof Black both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Zuoce Lavender switch is a linear switch known for its exceptional smoothness thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. With a crisp and clacky sound signature, each keystroke provides a distinctly satisfying experience. Categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Lavender switch is a popular choice for those who appreciate a tactile and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a linear switch that does not have any standout features mentioned. However, it is important to note that the Dustproof Black switch may offer durability and longevity due to its design. Ultimately, choosing between the Lavender and Dustproof Black switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style. 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
48g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, with the Lavender featuring POM top and bottom housings, and the Dustproof Black featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Black elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Lavender.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Dustproof Black is more visually appealing and conducive to RGB lighting, whereas the opaque POM top housing of the Zuoce Lavender may not allow for as much customization in terms of lighting effects. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Black absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer POM bottom housing of the Lavender results in a more muted but pleasing sound.
Overall, while the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Dustproof Black differ in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles, both switches offer high-quality components that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of the POM housing in the Lavender or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Dustproof Black, both switches showcase the unique characteristics that various housing materials can bring to mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender is lighter in both aspects compared to the Dustproof Black. The Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Lavender would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Dustproof Black would be more suitable. Ultimately, one can expect a more forgiving and less fatiguing typing experience with the Lavender, while the Dustproof Black offers a more tactile and forceful typing feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dustproof Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Dustproof Black's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
The Outemu Dustproof Black 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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch does not have a defined sound profile mentioned. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Lavender switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a smooth typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Dustproof Black switch. Despite this, it can be assumed that both switches offer a linear switch type, which typically provides a consistent key feel without any tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Zuoce Lavender and Outemu Dustproof Black linear switches may have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches belong to the linear switch category, which means they are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of lack of tactile feedback and consistent keypresses. Ultimately, the best choice between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and other factors affecting the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a distinct clacky sound, the Lavender switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize dustproof features without specific sound or feel preferences, the Dustproof Black switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences in terms of typing experience, sound, and force requirements. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
