Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there are some key differences to take into consideration. The MX Silent Red offers a muted and thocky typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky sound profile. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying clicky sound with every keystroke. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Green both have nylon bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which helps absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red features a nylon top housing, while the Dustproof Green has a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate is often used for clear housings, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, their top housings differ in material, impacting the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. The Nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Green offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile, giving it a distinct auditory experience compared to the MX Silent Red. This difference in top housing material can also affect the aesthetics of the switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Dustproof Green play a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, providing a deep and full sound when typing. However, the top housings - nylon for the MX Silent Red and polycarbonate for the Dustproof Green - offer distinct sound profiles, with nylon creating a duller, rounder sound and polycarbonate producing a sharper, crisper sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, one notable difference is the actuation force. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown, while the Dustproof Green switch has a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the MX Silent Red for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a heavier actuation force may opt for the Dustproof Green for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, with the MX Silent Red catering to those who prefer a lighter touch, and the Dustproof Green appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is clear that the Silent Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Dustproof Green's 4 mm. This means that the Silent Red offers a slightly quicker key press as it requires less distance to actuate. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dustproof Green being the more standard option. Gamers may prefer the Silent Red for its faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Dustproof Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Green 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 Silent Red linear switch is praised for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched qualities, providing a quieter typing experience that is ideal for those in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's sound profile is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red is described as textured, providing a different tactile experience compared to the standard smooth linear switches. This slight texture adds a unique feeling to typing on the MX Silent Red switch. Unfortunately, no information is available regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a quieter typing experience with a textured feel, making it a suitable option for those looking for a more subtle and tactile typing experience. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is limited in regards to sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, and depending on individual preferences, similar results can be achieved with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider your priorities. If you value a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments and enjoy a slightly heavier feel, the MX Silent Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky tactile feedback with a heavier bottom out force and don't mind a bit more noise, the Dustproof Green switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing environment.
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