Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Purple 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 Purple. The Outemu Blue switch is well-known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy the audible and physical confirmation of each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch provides a tactile bump without the noise, offering a more subtle typing experience that some users may prefer for quiet environments. While the Blue switch is great for those who prioritize the satisfying clicky sound, the Purple switch appeals to those who prefer a tactile response without the accompanying noise. 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
N/A
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Outemu Purple switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is great for switches with RGB lighting as it is translucent. The nylon bottom housing of both switches differs, with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
While the top housing of the Blue and Purple switches is the same, the difference in their bottom housing materials affects the overall typing experience. The Blue switch with a nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Purple switch with a nylon bottom housing will offer a similar typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in creating the overall sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Blue and Outemu Purple switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Blue switch with its polycarbonate top housing will offer a sharper and crisper sound, while the Purple switch with its nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize materials that enhance the typing experience in different ways, catering to individual preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prefer the clarity of the Blue switch or the rounder sound of the Purple switch, both options offer unique characteristics that can elevate your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. This means that while the initial keystroke will feel similar on both switches, the experience of fully pressing the key may vary. In general, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, which some users find satisfying for typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch offers a tactile bump without the audible click, providing a quieter typing experience. In terms of weight, the Outemu Blue switch may be considered lighter due to its clicky mechanism, while the Outemu Purple switch could be seen as heavier for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and sound.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, it can be noted that they both provide a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed, but the Blue switch has a clicky sound while the Purple switch is quieter. Despite these differences in sound, the travel distance remains consistent for both switches, allowing users to experience a similar feel when typing on a keyboard equipped with either switch. Overall, the travel distance of 4 mm for both the Outemu Blue and Purple switches ensures a comfortable typing experience with consistent feedback.
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 Purple.
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 distinctive clicky noise that is satisfyingly loud and crisp. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is described as having a quieter and more subtle sound profile, making it a better option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, it's important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Blue switch is praised for its tactile feedback and the noticeable bump that can be felt when the key is actuated, providing a satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Purple tactile switch offers a smoother keystroke with a tactile bump, giving users a more cushioned feel while typing. Depending on personal preferences, some users may find the Blue switch to be more responsive and tactile, while others may prefer the smoother feel of the Purple switch.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue switch is known for its loud and crisp clicky sound along with tactile feedback, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Meanwhile, the Purple switch provides a quieter typing experience with a smoother keystroke and tactile bump, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a louder, clicky sound versus a quieter, tactile feel. If you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and don't mind the added noise, the Outemu Blue switch could be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a tactile bump for feedback, the Outemu Purple switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and your typing style. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your preferences.
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