Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves weighing their options between various models, and two notable contenders in the tactile switch category are the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, offer a refined tactile experience characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke. This makes them an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike seeking an enhanced and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches focus on durability and reliability, boasting a design that minimizes dust intrusion and extends the switch's longevity. While both switches cater to users desiring tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is often favored for its premium feel and performance, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a great option for those prioritizing maintenance and durability. 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
N/A
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
Yes
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches, it’s evident that the top and bottom housings contribute distinctly to the overall typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing that lends a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer texture, which absorbs sound and delivers a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a more resonant audio quality, enhancing the clarity of keystrokes. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it a favorable choice for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination effects, unlike the nylon which does not transmit light as effectively.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a consistent auditory experience for the bottom-out sound across both switches. This similarity means that any typing performed on these switches will evoke the same deeper, softer sound profile when bottoming out. The nylon's sound-absorbing characteristics ensure that the feel and sound of the keystrokes maintain a similar quality, regardless of the difference in top housing materials. Therefore, while the top housing differences lead to distinct sound profiles when releasing the key, the bottom housing maintains a unified experience.
Overall, the combination of nylon in the bottom housing and the differing top housing materials results in a unique blend of sound characteristics for each switch. The Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a fuller sound and enhanced sound absorption at the bottom, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple provides a sharper auditory experience thanks to its polycarbonate top. Despite this disparity, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a relatable and familiar sound when bottoming out, allowing users of either switch to enjoy a smooth typing experience while appreciating the individual nuances brought by their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The MX Purple RGB features an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it a lighter option, suitable for extended typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a heavier push feel that some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Although the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unspecified, the Dustproof Purple has a clearly defined bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This means that users of the Outemu switch will experience a more pronounced resistance when bottoming out compared to the Cherry MX, leading to a different tactile feedback for each switch. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter feel for prolonged use, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple caters to those who appreciate a firmer resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users will experience the same depth of key press when using either switch. As a result, both switches offer comparable tactile feedback and actuation, allowing for a consistent feel during typing or gaming sessions. Whether a user opts for the Cherry MX or the Outemu switch, they can expect a uniform travel distance, which contributes to an overall similar performance between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Purple RGB tactile switch is typically characterized by a muted, yet satisfying sound profile that blends well with the tactile feedback it provides. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback without being overly loud, allowing for a pleasant typing experience in both quiet and more social environments. On the other hand, sound characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch are not well documented, which means its acoustic properties remain somewhat ambiguous. However, like any mechanical switch, the final sound output will also depend on the specific keyboard design and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB excels with a refined tactile experience that features a short, medium-strength bump, ensuring that users can easily identify actuation without excessive pressure. This can enhance typing speed and accuracy, making it appealing to both casual typists and gamers. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch is also not specified, leaving uncertainty about its tactile feedback and overall performance. Without direct comparisons, users may find their experience with the Dustproof Purple to vary significantly.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch offers a well-defined auditory and tactile experience appreciated by enthusiasts, the Outemu Dustproof Purple lacks sufficient detail to provide a clear comparison. If sound and feel are crucial to your typing experience, you can expect a more refined and enjoyable result with the Cherry MX Purple RGB, while the Dustproof Purple may require a personal trial to determine its qualities, as they are not as well-known or documented.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you seek a smooth, refined tactile experience that caters to a lighter touch, the MX Purple RGB might suit you better, especially if you value a modern aesthetic with RGB lighting and a unique bump developed for enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prefer more resistance while typing and desire a medium-heavy actuation force for better feedback, the Dustproof Purple could be the right choice, particularly if you often use your keyboard in dusty environments, as its dustproof design enhances durability. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing habits, the type of work you do, and your personal feel preferences, as each switch offers distinct benefits tailored to different user needs.
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