Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black. The Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch, known for its subtlety in both typing experience and audio feedback. With gentle tactility and a relatively light feel, the MX Brown switch is often preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. While the MX Brown is best suited for those who prefer a more textured and bassy typing experience, the Dustproof Black is ideal for users who prioritize a noiseless and linear keystroke. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In terms of tactile feedback, the bottom housing will play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed on both switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cherry MX Brown uses nylon while the Outemu Dustproof Black utilizes polycarbonate. This difference in materials leads to distinct sound profiles for each switch. The MX Brown, with its nylon top housing, will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Dustproof Black's polycarbonate top housing will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Dustproof Black switches result in different sound profiles and tactile feedback experiences. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the contrasting top housing materials – nylon for the MX Brown and polycarbonate for the Dustproof Black – create distinct auditory experiences for users. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, the choice between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the aesthetic appeal of polycarbonate for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch with the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it becomes evident that the MX Brown is lighter in terms of both forces. The MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 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, which classifies it as a heavier switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Brown would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Dustproof Black for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different typists.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of keypress feel. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch. The 4 mm travel distance ensures that users can feel the tactile bump of the MX Brown or the smooth action of the Dustproof Black while typing, providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Cherry MX Brown or the Outemu Dustproof Black, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown 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
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is known for its subtle tactility and relatively light typing experience, offering subdued audio feedback with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches provide a textured feel, adding a level of friction that some users appreciate for a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch does not have specific descriptors for sound or feel, making it difficult to directly compare. However, if we consider the general characteristics of linear switches, the Dustproof Black is likely to provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump of the MX Brown. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the MX Brown offering a more tactile typing experience while the Dustproof Black may appeal to those seeking a smoother keystroke. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, but with different subjective qualities to consider.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light typing experience with subtle tactility and a quieter sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with linear switches and are not concerned about noise levels, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches might be the better option. Ultimately, try to test out both switches if possible to see which one suits your typing style and preferences the best. Happy typing!
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