Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their key differences in terms of functionality and user experience. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its exceptional speed and responsiveness, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers seeking rapid input without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple switch offers a clicky typing experience with satisfying tactile feedback, making it perfect for typists who enjoy a more traditional key feel. While the MX Speed Silver excels in providing lightning-fast response times for gaming, the Dustproof Purple switch delivers a satisfying typing experience with audible click 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The key difference between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Purple lies in the materials used for their top housings. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials are durable and commonly used in switch housings, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on the desired sound characteristics and aesthetic preferences of the user.
In terms of bottom housing, both the MX Speed Silver and the Dustproof Purple utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the effects seen in the nylon top housing. Because nylon is softer and absorbs sound effectively, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches, the overall typing experience may still vary based on the sound profile created by the top housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Purple comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the MX Speed Silver offers a softer and potentially fuller sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Dustproof Purple provides a crisper and more resonant sound experience with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches are durable and reliable options for mechanical keyboards, but the decision between them will depend on the specific sound qualities and typing feel that each user seeks. Ultimately, whether one chooses nylon or polycarbonate housing, they can expect similar results in terms of overall durability and performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that they offer significantly different experiences. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it more sensitive and requiring less effort to trigger a keystroke compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the MX Speed Silver, which has an unknown bottom out force. Overall, the MX Speed Silver is lighter in both actuation and potentially bottom out force, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple offers a heavier and more tangible typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences, some may prefer the lighter touch of the MX Speed Silver for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Dustproof Purple for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Speed Silver offers a shallower press, making it ideal for gamers looking for quick response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple provides a bit more depth in the key press, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 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 Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and satisfying sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch's sound profile is not specified. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, which can provide feedback and a sense of tactility to the user. However, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is not specified. The presence of texture in a switch can be a preference for some users who enjoy a bit of friction when typing.
Taking into consideration the information provided, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and rapid response, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the Cherry MX Speed Silver. In cases where specific qualities are unknown, it is important to keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so it's recommended to try out multiple switches to determine the best fit for your typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. With its low spring resistance and instant triggering, it is perfect for gaming where every millisecond counts. On the other hand, if you are someone who enjoys a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is a great choice. The Dustproof Purple is built to withstand dust and debris while providing tactile feedback with its clicky sound. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and needs, whether it be for gaming or typing.
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