Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black 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 Crystal Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch, known for providing a satisfying bump when pressed, making it ideal for typists who prefer a tactile feedback for improved accuracy and speed. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a preferred choice for gamers who require quick and precise key presses. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and cater to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Crystal Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The polycarbonate material being relatively stiff contributes to a more resonant sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
However, the differences emerge when looking at the bottom housing material of the Crystal Brown and Dustproof Black. While the Crystal Brown features a nylon bottom housing, the Dustproof Black also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches when typing on them.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Crystal Brown and Dustproof Black switches showcases a balance of qualities. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound when pressing down on a key, while the softer nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. This combination provides users with a well-rounded typing experience that balances sharpness and resonance with depth and fullness.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dustproof Black. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Dustproof Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which is considered heavy. This means that the Crystal Brown will provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black offers a more robust and substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a heavier push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent key feel in terms of how far down you need to press the key before it actuates. While their travel distances are equal, their tactile feedback and actuation force will differ due to the Crystal Brown being tactile and the Dustproof Black being linear. So, when it comes to comparing the travel distance of these two switches, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel length, but a noticeable difference in typing experience based on their individual switch characteristics.
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 Crystal Brown 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 Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for its smooth and satisfying tactile bump when typing. This bump provides excellent feedback to the user without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is praised for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the Crystal Brown has a noticeable tactile feedback, the Dustproof Black offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any bumps or resistance.
When it comes to sound, the Crystal Brown switch emits a moderate level of noise that is not overly loud or irritating. This can be attributed to the tactile bump that dampens some of the sound produced when typing. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. The lack of tactile feedback in the Dustproof Black switch also contributes to its stealthy typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Crystal Brown switch is lauded for its satisfying tactile bump that adds a level of tactility and feedback to each keystroke. This makes typing on the Crystal Brown switch a pleasurable and engaging experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. This makes the Dustproof Black switch ideal for those who prefer a linear typing experience without any distractions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch offer unique typing experiences based on their sound and feel qualities. The Crystal Brown switch provides a tactile bump and moderate noise level, giving users a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switch offers a quiet and smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, the Crystal Brown with 55 grams could be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force, the Dustproof Black with 80 grams may be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns more with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing needs.
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