Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer two distinct typing experiences. The Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch known for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback with a satisfying click sound. While the MX Brown may be preferred for its quieter and more tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue stands out for its clicky feedback that some users find more satisfying. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Blue, we see significant differences in the materials used. The MX Brown features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer plastic creating a clear and resonant sound. While both materials have their own distinct advantages in sound profile, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the switches, both the MX Brown and the Dustproof Blue use nylon for this component. This consistency in material means that both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both switches are able to provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer unique qualities in their housing materials, such as nylon and polycarbonate, they ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile from the softer nylon material of the MX Brown, or a sharper, crisper sound from the stiffer polycarbonate material of the Dustproof Blue, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences in sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch differ slightly in weight. The MX Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Its bottom out force of 55 grams provides a satisfying typing experience without too much resistance. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches provide a distinct typing experience, with the MX Brown being lighter overall and the Dustproof Blue being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and desired level of force.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel when using either of these switches. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a comfortable typing experience while still providing a satisfying tactile feedback. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience with the same travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a moderate key travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Blue 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 Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, information about the sound of Outemu Dustproof Blue switches is not available. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, Cherry MX Browns are often praised for their textured typing experience, providing a subtle friction that some users appreciate for a tactile response. Unfortunately, there is no information provided about the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches.
In conclusion, while Cherry MX Brown switches are loved for their subtle tactility and bassy sound profile, information about the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches is limited. If you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a deeper sound, the Cherry MX Browns might be the way to go. However, if you are considering the Dustproof Blue switches, it's recommended to test them out for yourself to determine if they meet your preferences for sound and feel. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subtle audio feedback, opt for the Cherry MX Brown. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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