Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple stand out as two popular options with distinct characteristics. The MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback with each key press, ensuring a satisfying click sound. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Dustproof Purple does not have any specific categories. Depending on personal preference, one may choose the MX Red for its smooth typing experience, or the Dustproof Purple for its audible feedback. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on switches with either of these housings will result in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Cherry MX Red or the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches.
However, the top housing material is where the key difference lies between the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches. While the Cherry MX Red uses nylon for its top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple utilizes polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing feature that nylon does not offer. This distinction between the top housing materials of the two switches highlights the potential for variation in sound and aesthetic preferences for users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches may come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound, the difference in top housing material sets them apart. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Purple switch creates a more resonant and visually appealing sound profile with RGB lighting, whereas the nylon top housing of the MX Red offers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a rounder, deeper sound will likely dictate which switch is better suited to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is clear that the MX Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams is higher than the MX Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the MX Red may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel may lean towards the Dustproof Purple. In both cases, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces if they require switches with equal force measurements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom is equal, resulting in a similar typing experience for users of both switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Dustproof Purple switches, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing feel.
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 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 Red linear switch is known for its deep and satisfying "thocky" sound, offering a bass-heavy tone when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In regard to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, providing users with a tactile feedback while typing. The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have any specific feel descriptors available for comparison. It's important to note that the feel of a switch is a highly subjective experience, with some users preferring a textured feel for added feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its heftier feel and deep sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel. However, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly heavier feel and a deep, satisfying sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch may be a better option for you. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force for a light typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red is the way to go. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force combined with dustproofing for durability, and are looking for a clicky switch with a unique sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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