Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come into consideration are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Blue. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is a linear switch that is hailed for its lightning-fast response time, thanks to its low spring resistance and linear action. This makes it ideal for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge with its instant triggering ability. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that offers a tactile feedback with an audible click sound, providing a satisfying typing experience. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver is known for its speed and responsiveness, the Outemu Dustproof Blue stands out for its tactile feedback and audible click. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches, one can see significant differences between the two. The MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This discrepancy in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on each switch, with the MX Speed Silver offering a more muted and rounded sound compared to the clear and resonant sound of the Dustproof Blue.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing of both switches, one can see that they both utilize nylon material. This means that both the MX Speed Silver and Dustproof Blue will provide a similar experience in terms of sound profile when it comes to bottoming out keys. The choice to use nylon for the bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches highlights a shared quality that users can expect when typing on either switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches showcase how the choice of material can significantly impact the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the top housing of the MX Speed Silver and Dustproof Blue differ in nylon and polycarbonate compositions, respectively, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches leads to a harmonious bottoming out experience for users. Understanding the nuances of housing materials can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches that best suit their preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. The Cherry MX Speed Silver also has an unknown bottom out force, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The lighter actuation force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver would make it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use, while the heavier actuation force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In either case, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and overall feel of the switches.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Blue may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Both switches offer different advantages, with the MX Speed Silver being more responsive and the Dustproof Blue providing a more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Outemu Dustproof Blue 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 Speed Silver switch is known for its deep and satisfying "thocky" sound, as well as its low-pitched tone. This can provide a tactile and auditory feedback that many gamers appreciate during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, making it difficult to compare in terms of sound quality.
In regards to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, providing users with a tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and overall typing experience. However, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have any feel descriptors provided, making it challenging to determine how it compares in terms of tactile feedback.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is clear that the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a unique combination of rapid response, satisfying sound, and textured feel that make it a popular choice among gamers seeking a competitive edge. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch are unknown, it is important to consider individual preferences and needs when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your setup. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results depending on the user's preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the MX Speed Silver is the way to go with its lightning-fast actuation. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and satisfying click sound of a clicky switch, the Dustproof Blue is a great option with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Consider what features are most important to you - speed, sound, feel - and make your decision based on that. Happy typing!
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