Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both of which fall under the clicky switch category. The Outemu Blue switch is known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound, providing a classic typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch offers the same tactile feedback and click sound, but with the added benefit of dustproofing, which can help prolong the switch's lifespan. While both switches offer a similar typing experience, the Dustproof Blue may be more suitable for those in environments where dust accumulation is a concern. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Blue switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the sound profiles of the two switches, it is evident that the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the top polycarbonate housing produces a sharp and crisp sound when releasing the key. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a clearer and resonant sound overall, with the top housing further enhancing the sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately deliver a distinct typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches create unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Blue switch with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Blue switch may provide a clearer and more resonant overall sound. However, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the specific sound profile and typing experience that the user is looking for.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Outemu Blue switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that the Dustproof Blue switch requires more force to fully press the key compared to the regular Blue switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better option, especially for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may find the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch more suitable due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it can be noted that they provide a similar tactile feedback and typing experience due to their identical distance traveled. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky sound and tactile bump when pressed, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you can expect to receive a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Blue.
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 Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click with a tactile bump, making it a popular choice among users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is also expected to have a similar sound profile, given that it shares the same click mechanism. However, the inclusion of dustproofing may dampen the sound slightly, resulting in a slightly quieter typing experience compared to the standard Blue switch.
In regards to feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its tactile feedback and pronounced click, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a more tactile switch. Likewise, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is expected to offer a similar tactile feel, with the added benefit of dustproofing to ensure a longer lifespan and more consistent performance over time.
Overall, both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are likely to offer similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel, with the main difference being the dustproofing feature in the latter. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether the added durability of the dustproofing is worth sacrificing a potentially slightly louder typing sound.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and can handle a bit more noise, the standard Outemu Blue switch may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and want some additional protection against dust and debris, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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