Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch, known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, offering a different typing experience with its unique feedback and actuation point. While the MX Red is best suited for those who prefer a smoother keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Dustproof Brown is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump while typing. 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
45g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, whether one chooses the MX Red or the Dustproof Brown, they can anticipate a deep and full sound when typing due to the nylon bottom housing.
However, when considering the top housing material, the Cherry MX Red features a nylon top housing, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown incorporates a polycarbonate top housing. This difference in materials results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the MX Red. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the Dustproof Brown.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the differing top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate result in distinct sound profiles. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound characteristic of the MX Red or a sharper and crisper sound profile offered by the Dustproof Brown with RGB lighting capabilities, users have the flexibility to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and smooth typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Red has an unknown value, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that typing on the Dustproof Brown switch may require a bit more effort and might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches offer similar actuation forces for a comfortable typing experience, but the Outemu Dustproof Brown provides a heavier bottom out force for those who prefer a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. The Cherry MX Red is known for its smooth and linear keystrokes, ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown provides a tactile bump for feedback without the audible click, making it a popular option for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. Overall, while the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches have the same travel distance, they offer slightly different typing experiences to cater to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Outemu Dustproof Brown 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 Red switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have any known sound descriptors available. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its slightly textured feel, which can provide users with a tactile sensation when typing. Conversely, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch. Again, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, so trying out different switches is essential to finding the one that best suits your preferences.
Overall, while the specifics of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch are not readily available, based on the information provided, users can expect a slightly tactile typing experience with a potentially unknown sound profile. If a quieter and smoother typing experience is preferred, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you is to try them out firsthand and see which one aligns most closely with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red would be a great choice for you. It offers a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or bottom out force, when choosing between these two switches.
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