Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Green mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately lies in your preference for typing experience. The Cherry MX Brown switch is ideal for those who prefer a subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, making it perfect for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch offers a more pronounced clicky feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a satisfying click sound with each 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
The Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Dustproof Green switches both use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the top housing of the MX Brown is made of nylon, while the Dustproof Green utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Green produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in material contributes to a unique typing experience for each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Dustproof Green allows for clearer housing, making it more suitable for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the opaque nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Brown may not offer the same level of visual appeal for users interested in adding colorful lighting to their keyboards. While both switches share similar bottom housing materials, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing can greatly impact the overall sound and look of the keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and visual aesthetics.
When comparing the two switches, it's important to consider how the different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The combination of nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing in the Outemu Dustproof Green offers a unique blend of sound characteristics, providing a sharper and crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown's consistent use of nylon throughout may result in a more uniform sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. The MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of pressure needed to activate and fully press the keys. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which is considered heavy. This means that the MX Brown switch would provide a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Dustproof Green switch would offer a more substantial and forceful typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences regarding key pressure and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance indicates that the typing experience with these switches will feel consistent in terms of key travel, providing a satisfying feel for typists. Overall, both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance, allowing users to enjoy a consistent key press sensation with either choice.
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 Green 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, providing a deeper and richer typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switches do not have a clear description of their sound profile, so it is difficult to compare in this aspect. Keep in mind that sound can also be affected by the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, Cherry MX Browns are recognized for their textured sensation when pressed, giving users a tactile feedback that some find satisfying. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green switches do not have any specific description regarding their feel, making it challenging to compare the two in this regard.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a subtle and tactile typing experience with bassy sound characteristics, the Outemu Dustproof Green switches remain a bit of a mystery in terms of their sound and feel qualities. If you prefer a quieter and more textured typing experience, the Cherry MX Browns would be a reliable choice based on the available information. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a light typing experience with subtle tactility and subdued sound, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with audible clicky feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound feedback, and bottom out force. Choose wisely to ensure a satisfying typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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