Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Brown mechanical keyboard switches, some key differences emerge. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch that boasts maximum speed and rapid response, making it a top choice for gamers who need quick trigger actions to gain a competitive edge. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying tactile bump without the audible noise, making it a preferred choice for typists who prioritize a quieter typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver is lauded for its speed and low resistance, the Dustproof Brown provides a tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches are likely to produce a similar duller and rounder sound when pressed down. This commonality in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the MX Speed Silver and the Dustproof Brown differ, with the former using nylon and the latter utilizing polycarbonate. While nylon creates a softer sound profile, polycarbonate is stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Therefore, users can expect a more clear and resonant sound profile from the Dustproof Brown due to its polycarbonate top housing, especially when combined with RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing experience. This contrast in top housing materials highlights the potential for a noticeably different sound and feel when typing on each switch.
Overall, the combination of nylon bottom housing and either nylon or polycarbonate top housing in the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Brown demonstrates a balance between a deeper, fuller sound profile and a sharper, crisper sound profile. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound absorption and key feel. However, the different top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate introduce a distinct sound profile for each switch, ultimately catering to the preferences of users seeking specific acoustic qualities in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that they differ significantly in terms of weight. The MX Speed Silver has a much lighter actuation force of 30 grams, while the Dustproof Brown requires 45 grams to actuate. Additionally, the Dustproof Brown has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown. This means that the Dustproof Brown switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher force required for both actuation and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the MX Speed Silver would be the better choice. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Dustproof Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switches plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience and user preference.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that there is a noticeable difference between the two. The MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Dustproof Brown's 4 mm travel distance. This means that the MX Speed Silver offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers who need fast key presses for gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more deliberate key press. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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 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 Speed Silver is known for producing a thocky and low-pitched sound when pressed. This deep and satisfying sound is often preferred by gamers looking for an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison. However, sound can also be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycaps used, so personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for you.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured feel, which may provide tactile feedback during typing. This texture can be beneficial for users who enjoy a more pronounced key press sensation. As for the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch, information about its feel is unavailable. Without detailed information, it's challenging to directly compare the tactile experience of these two switches. Ultimately, the tactile feel of a switch is highly subjective, so trying out different options is key to finding the right fit for your preferences.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The MX Speed Silver offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, along with a textured feel for tactile feedback, making it well-suited for gamers seeking instant response and immersion. On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is limited, making direct comparisons challenging. In cases where specific qualities are unknown, it's recommended to consider other factors such as personal preference, typing style, and intended use when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfactory results depending on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and instant response, the MX Speed Silver may be the better choice for you due to its linear action and low spring resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile feedback for typing, the Dustproof Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual typing style and preferences. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one feels the most comfortable and responsive for your needs.
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