Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Dustproof Black are two popular options worth considering. The Cherry MX Black is known for its iconic status in the mechanical keyboard world, with Cherry having further enhanced its performance with the Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is still a reliable linear switch option. While the Cherry MX Black may appeal to those looking for a familiar and proven option, the Dustproof Black could be a solid choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative. 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
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Black differ in their top housing materials, with the MX Black featuring a nylon top housing and the Dustproof Black featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the MX Black produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which means that they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing, whether it be the MX Black or the Outemu Dustproof Black, will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of bottom housing material, users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of sound and feel.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housing materials on a switch, it becomes clear that each material contributes differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch can significantly affect the typing experience, with the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Black showcasing different sound profiles due to their distinct housing materials.
Weight
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have the same actuation force of 60 grams, making them light in terms of initial key press. However, both switches also have the same bottom out force of 80 grams, which is heavy and provides a substantial typing experience. This means that users will get similar results in terms of the force needed for the key press to register and the force required to fully press the key down for both switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, either switch would be a suitable option. For those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches would also be suitable choices. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to other factors such as price, durability, and user preference.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key for either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance. The similar travel distance of both switches ensures that typing or gaming with either switch will result in similar tactile feedback and key press experience. Users can expect consistent performance and feel when using either the Cherry MX Black or the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10.
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 Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile while typing. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its textured feel, offering a noticeable friction when pressed which some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. Additionally, these switches are described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Conversely, information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is not provided.
With the available information, it seems that the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a deep sound profile with a low-pitched tone and a textured, stiff feel. On the other hand, details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch are lacking. Overall, if you were to choose the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch based on this comparison, it is likely that you may achieve a similar low-pitched sound and potentially a textured feel similar to the Cherry MX Black switch. However, for a more precise comparison, further information on the Dustproof Black switch's sound and feel characteristics would be necessary.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. If you prefer a switch with a familiar deep sound profile and a classic textured smoothness, along with a heavier bottom out force, the Cherry MX Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option with a similar bottom out force and are not concerned with additional features such as dustproofing, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch could be a suitable choice. Consider your typing preferences and budget constraints when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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