Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer unique typing experiences. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch with a smooth texture and deep sound profile, making it popular among typists who prefer a low-pitched and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with no specific standout features noted. While the Cherry MX Black is known for its classic feel and consistent performance, the Dustproof Purple may appeal to those looking for a different type of clicky switch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different plastic compositions. The MX Black's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to its functionality, unlike the opaque nylon of the MX Black.
Both the MX Black and Dustproof Purple switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the switches' overall sound profile by enhancing the deep and fuller sound experience associated with nylon. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that complements the top housing material in each switch. This consistency in the bottom housing material ensures a uniform tactile experience across the switches, emphasizing the importance of the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, the qualities of each housing material are effectively divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, providing a tactile experience that complements the switches' overall sound profile. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of a well-matched housing combination for a consistent and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch with an actuation force of 55 grams, making the MX Black slightly heavier. When it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Black requires 80 grams of force while the Outemu Dustproof Purple needs 65 grams, again making the MX Black the heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Purple, as it has slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. In contrast, the MX Black may be favored by those seeking a more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of weight, with the Dustproof Purple being lighter and the MX Black being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel when using either switch. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying feel when typing, with a moderate travel distance that strikes a good balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, whether you choose the Cherry MX Black or the Outemu Dustproof Purple, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Purple 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 offers a low-pitched and deep typing experience, giving off a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have any known sound characteristics listed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its textured and stiff qualities, providing a noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Meanwhile, information regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is not available.
Considering the information provided, the Cherry MX Black linear switch appears to have a distinct sound profile and a tactile feel that may appeal to users who prefer a deep sound and a textured and stiff typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are unknown, it is possible that users may still achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel based on personal preference and individual typing style. Ultimately, it is important for newcomers to consider their preferences in sound and feel when choosing between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, you would want to choose the Cherry MX Black linear switch if you prefer a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, enjoy a deep sound profile, and like a textured and stiff typing feel. On the other hand, you would opt for the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, are looking for a clicky switch, and are not too concerned about sound and feel descriptors. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and the specific features you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what best suits your needs and typing style.
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