Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer linear typing experiences, yet they bring distinct characteristics to the table. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, creating a unique typing experience that is further complemented by its silky feel and RGB illumination enhancement. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black remains more understated without any notable features highlighted. Choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prefer a switch with a more pronounced auditory feedback and customizable lighting effects or a simpler, no-frills option. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Black, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for more vibrant lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Dustproof Black features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer a unique sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches, emphasizing the tactility and responsiveness of the keystrokes. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting effects. While the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly different sound experience compared to the Lightning Silver V3, both switches share a common characteristic in their top housing material, resulting in similar overall sound qualities.
Overall, the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Black play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. The polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Black provides a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch, with the top housing impacting the sound when pressing and releasing a key, and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether opting for the Lightning Silver V3 or the Dustproof Black, users can expect distinct sound profiles and tactile responses based on the housing materials utilized in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's 60 grams, making it more responsive to lighter touches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams, while the Dustproof Black demands a heavier 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Lightning Silver V3, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while users seeking a more robust push feel may find the Outemu Dustproof Black to be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a bit shorter than the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Lightning Silver V3 may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Black may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer different benefits, catering to different needs, so selecting the right one will depend on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a silky typing experience, characterized by its exceptionally smooth feel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The feel of the Dustproof Black switch is also unknown. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for different sound and feel qualities, it is recommended to further research and test out both switches to determine which one suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound signature, as well as a silky typing experience with enhanced RGB illumination, then the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are less concerned with sound and feel, then the Outemu Dustproof Black may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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