Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Purple stand out as popular options. The Cherry MX Brown switch is highly regarded for its subtle tactility and relatively quiet typing experience, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more low-profile switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch offers a clicky typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. While the Cherry MX Brown is known for its textured, bassy, and low-pitched attributes, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have any specific defining characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Dustproof Purple both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. However, the Dustproof Purple's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Brown's nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material translates to a more resonant sound when using the Dustproof Purple, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.
While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material, the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Dustproof Purple differ in their top housing composition, with the former using nylon and the latter using polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Purple's top housing gives it a clearer and more vibrant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the softer nylon top housing of the MX Brown creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a different auditory feedback for users compared to the Dustproof Purple.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Dustproof Purple housing materials comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The MX Brown's nylon top and bottom housing offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Purple's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, with the top housing material playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that the MX Brown is lighter in both aspects compared to the Dustproof Purple. 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 Purple switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the MX Brown would be the ideal choice, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Dustproof Purple. Both switches provide tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and experience when typing or gaming. Their travel distance allows for a comfortable and responsive keystroke, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. Despite being different in terms of their tactile and clicky characteristics, the travel distance of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cherry MX Brown or the Outemu Dustproof Purple, you can expect a satisfying typing sensation with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 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
The Cherry MX Brown switch offers a subtle and light typing experience with gentle tactile feedback and a relatively quiet sound profile characterized as bassy and low-pitched. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to compare to the MX Brown in this aspect. When it comes to feel, the MX Brown is described as having a textured feel, providing some friction when pressed. Unfortunately, the feel of the Dustproof Purple switch is also unknown, preventing a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown switch seems to excel in providing a quieter and more subtle typing experience with light tactility, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch's subjective qualities remain largely unknown. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, the Cherry MX Brown may be a more reliable choice due to the available information on its characteristics. However, without further information on the Dustproof Purple switch, it is advisable to conduct more research or try out the switches for yourself to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider that the MX Brown offers a lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. It may be a good choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing feel and sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple provides a medium-heavy bottom out force and clicky feedback, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience with audible feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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