Haimu Orange Sea vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Orange Sea and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Haimu Orange Sea, a linear switch, is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making it a fantastic choice for users seeking a quiet and unobtrusive experience, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or late-night gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, designed to deliver unmistakable tactile feedback and an audible click with each keystroke, which many typists appreciate for its satisfying response and enhanced typing rhythm, particularly favored by those who enjoy a more mechanical feel. Both switches have their unique advantages—whether you're drawn to the quiet elegance of the Orange Sea or the enthusiastic feedback of the Dustproof Blue. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and Outemu Dustproof Blue both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, guaranteeing that they share a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper and crisper auditory experience. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear resonance that enhances the overall clarity of keypress sounds. Additionally, both switches boast translucency in their designs, making them particularly advantageous for RGB lighting applications. This design choice not only highlights the aesthetic appeal of the switches but also ensures that users can enjoy the vibrant lighting effects without sacrificing sound quality.
While both switches employ polycarbonate for their upper housings, their bottom housings diverge in material, with the Orange Sea utilizing nylon. This choice introduces a contrasting sound profile, where the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when the keys are pressed. The bottom housing's material becomes crucial in shaping the overall sound profile of the switch, as it has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, while both switches can deliver an exquisite auditory experience, their distinct bottom housing materials influence the overall sound dynamics.
In terms of sound engineering, the differences in bottom housing materials create a unique interaction when the keys are actuated. The polycarbonate top of both the Haimu Orange Sea and Outemu Dustproof Blue will yield a consistent high-pitched, resonant sound when the keys are released, while the nylon bottom of the Orange Sea will soften and round out the sound profile during key presses. Consequently, users can expect a more full-bodied experience with the Orange Sea, while the Dustproof Blue offers a purely crisp sound profile driven by the absence of nylon. In summary, despite their similar top housing materials, the choice of nylon for the Orange Sea’s bottom housing creates an intricate balance of sound qualities that distinguishes it from the Dustproof Blue.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we see a distinct difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons where comfort is key. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a heavier experience, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This additional weight can provide a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push while typing. Consequently, for users seeking a lighter touch and less finger fatigue, the Orange Sea is the preferable choice, whereas those who favor a more robust typing experience might lean toward the Dustproof Blue. In summary, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is the lighter option with its lower force requirements, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue provides a heavier and more tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Orange Sea features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This indicates that the Orange Sea switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times, as the shorter distance can lead to faster actuation. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue, with its greater travel distance, offers a more substantial feel, which some users might prefer for a more pronounced feedback when typing. Therefore, the choice between these switches ultimately hinges on personal preference—those who favor a snappier response should lean towards the Orange Sea, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress might opt for the Dustproof Blue.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a notably neutral sound signature, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without distracting clicks. This smoother acoustical profile allows for seamless keystrokes, making it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be managed. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch typically produces a distinctly loud, satisfying click with each keystroke, which can be quite appealing for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. However, it’s important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the specific keyboard and keycap materials used, so results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches provide an impeccably smooth typing experience that promotes a fluid motion across the keyboard. The absence of tactile bumps ensures that the keystrokes are consistent from start to finish, which many typists find conducive to faster and more accurate typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches deliver a pronounced tactile feedback with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, giving users a clear indication of when the key has been triggered. This tactile quality can enhance the typing rhythm and is often favored by users who appreciate a tactile response.
In summary, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is characterized by its smooth feel and neutral sound, making it an excellent choice for quieter environments and users who prefer seamless keystrokes. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Blue offers a clicky sound and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two hinges on personal preference regarding sound and feel, but both switches cater to different typing styles and environments, allowing users to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their specific needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smoother, quieter typing experience with a light actuation force, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for effortless typing, making it ideal for extensive writing or gaming sessions where speed and comfort are prioritized. Alternatively, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with an audible click, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch might be more to your liking. With a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, it provides a more pronounced resistance that can enhance typing accuracy for those who appreciate a firmer key feel. Keep in mind that while the Orange Sea offers a more neutral sound profile, the Dustproof Blue's clicky feedback might be more satisfying for users who enjoy auditory confirmation of each keystroke. Overall, weighing your typing habits and sound preferences will guide you in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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