Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black both offer unique features to consider. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that provides a slightly heavier feel compared to the MX Red, but with the added benefit of operating silently. Its muted, thocky, low-pitched, and textured characteristics make it ideal for noise-sensitive environments while still providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black is a linear switch that is known for its dustproof feature, ensuring longevity and durability. Although it lacks specific defining characteristics at first glance, it may appeal to those looking for a reliable and long-lasting option. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The main difference between the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches lies in their composition. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile because of the stiffer plastic. This contrast in material properties directly affects the acoustics of the switches and may appeal to different preferences based on sound profile.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches use nylon material. This means that the bottom housing contributes to a similar sound profile for both switches, producing a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of the nylon plastic. While the top housing may bring about distinct differences in sound, the shared bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches. This demonstrates how housing materials can impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black delivers a sharper and crisper sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile for both switches. Ultimately, the different housing materials of these switches offer unique acoustics that cater to individual preferences, making it important to consider the impact of housing materials on typing experience when choosing a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing users with a more substantial push feel. It is also worth noting that the Dustproof Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, compared to the MX Silent Red, where the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a keyboard with a lighter touch may find the MX Silent Red to be more suitable, while individuals looking for a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Silent Red falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper sensation. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences in typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Outemu Dustproof Black 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
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is revered for its muted and thocky sound profile, offering a satisfying typing experience with lower noise output compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch's sound qualities are unknown, making it difficult to compare in this aspect. Moving on to the feel, the MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, providing some level of friction when typing. In contrast, there is no information available on the feel of the Dustproof Black switch. Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be a suitable choice. If sound and feel are not the primary factors in your decision-making process, both switches may offer similar results in terms of performance and durability. It is essential to consider other factors such as personal preferences, typing style, and budget when selecting between these two switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, especially in noise-sensitive environments, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned about noise levels, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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