Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The Lightning Silver V3 is a linear switch that is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, as well as its silky and seamless typing experience. Its unique light diffuser enhances RGB illumination, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that provides a more tactile feedback while typing. While it may not boast any specific standout feature, it is known for its reliability and durability. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately depends on 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches used with RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual effect. However, the Lightning Silver V3 also has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dustproof Brown employs a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Brown results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The Outemu Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing of the switches impacts the sound when a key is released, influencing the overall typing experience. Both switches share the benefits of having polycarbonate top housings, contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile that is characteristic of this material.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown would come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housings - polycarbonate for the Lightning Silver V3 and nylon for the Dustproof Brown - results in contrasting sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper high-pitched sound or a deeper fuller sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams, whereas the Dustproof Brown needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly quicker keystroke on the Lightning Silver V3, while the heavier bottom out force on the Dustproof Brown may provide a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between lightness for extended typing sessions and a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Dustproof Brown. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the Lightning Silver V3 for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Dustproof Brown for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and response time.
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 Brown 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 profile, which provides a sharp and snappy typing experience. This sound signature adds a crisp and bright element to typing, perfect for those who enjoy a more percussive sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a silky typing experience, characterized by its exceptionally smooth operation that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Dustproof Brown's tactile feel is also unknown. Overall, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with unknown sound and feel qualities, the Outemu Dustproof Brown may still provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound signature, as well as a silky smooth typing experience with enhanced RGB illumination, then the Lightning Silver V3 may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not concerned with sound or additional features like RGB illumination, then the Dustproof Brown may be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider these factors carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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