Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and Outemu Dustproof Black offer different experiences for users. The Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with an audible click sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy the sensation of typing on a typewriter. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click, providing a quiet and consistent typing experience. While the Blue switch may be preferred by those who enjoy clicky switches, the Dustproof Black switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a quieter and more linear typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Black lies in their top housing material, which is made of polycarbonate for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This makes the switches ideal for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for those who want to add RGB lighting to their keyboards, as it allows the lighting to shine through effectively.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material for both switches is nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Black benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile.
Overall, while the top housing material of the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Black is the same, the bottom housing material allows for subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on these switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials offer users a well-rounded typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound profile with nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue switch does not have a specified value, while the Dustproof Black switch has a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Dustproof Black switch requires more force to fully press a key down compared to the Blue switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Blue switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may choose the Outemu Dustproof Black switch for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. The Blue switch offers a satisfying clicky response with each keystroke, while the Dustproof Black switch provides a smooth and linear typing experience. Despite their different typing feel, the travel distance of both switches remains consistent, allowing for similar results in terms of how the key feels when pressed. Overall, while the Blue switch may offer a more tactile feedback, both switches have an equal travel distance, providing a comfortable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Blue and Dustproof Black.
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 Outemu Blue clicky switch is best known for its loud and satisfying click sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is best known for its smooth and quiet keystrokes, providing a more subtle typing experience. In terms of sound, the Blue switch produces a loud and clicky noise, while the Dustproof Black switch is much quieter due to its linear design. When it comes to feel, the Blue switch has a tactile bump that provides a noticeable tactile feedback, while the Dustproof Black switch offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience with tactile feedback, then the Blue switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth keystrokes, then the Dustproof Black switch would be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, so you can expect reliable results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with no bottom out force, then the Outemu Blue switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, then the Outemu Dustproof Black switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style, environment, and preferences to determine which switch would best suit your needs and enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
Mentioned in this article
