Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, offering a subtle bump in response when pressed, providing a satisfying typing experience without the loud clicky sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, known for its distinct clicking sound with every key press, perfect for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. The Brown switch may be preferred for its quieter operation and tactile feedback, while the Dustproof Blue switch is ideal for those who enjoy the clicky sound and precise 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
53g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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 Brown and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housing, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material.
The Outemu Brown switch features a bottom housing made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Despite having different top housings, both switches provide a consistent typing feel thanks to the shared bottom housing material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches play a significant role in shaping the typing experience and sound profile of each switch. While their top housings are both made of polycarbonate, providing a sharper sound profile, the bottom housings made of nylon deliver a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This combination of materials results in a unique tactile experience for each switch, highlighting how housing materials can impact both the sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, one can see that they are quite similar. The Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, but both have the same bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the pressure needed to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Dustproof Blue may be the better option with its slightly lower actuation force. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the Brown may be the preferred choice due to its slightly higher actuation force. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent tactile feel and actuation point for users. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a comfortable typing experience while providing a satisfying feedback with every key press. Whether you choose the Brown or the Dustproof Blue switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing feel. So, in this case, both switches offer a comparable 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 Brown 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 Brown tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, with a soft tactile bump providing feedback without much audible noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is well-known for its clicky sound profile, offering a satisfying click with each key press. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is praised for its smooth and subtle tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a relatively gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump along with the audible click, providing a more tactile typing experience. Both switches are built with quality materials and offer a satisfying feel during use.
Overall, the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch provide distinct typing experiences in terms of both sound and feel. The Brown switch offers a quiet and smooth tactile feedback, while the Dustproof Blue switch delivers a clicky and tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can provide a enjoyable typing experience. It's important to consider factors such as noise levels, typing feel, and overall preference when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it's important to consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're looking for a switch that provides a tactile bump without the noisy click, the Outemu Brown switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying click sound and feedback while typing, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you are in a shared workspace or prefer a quieter typing experience, the Brown switch may be more appropriate, whereas if you're in a solo environment and don't mind the noise, the Dustproof Blue switch may be a fun option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of your typing environment.
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