Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch. The Crystal Brown switch is praised for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch is well-known for its distinct clicky sound with each keystroke. While the Crystal Brown switch may be preferred for its tactile feel and quieter typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch is favored for its audible feedback and precise actuation. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality suggests that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. While the top housings of both switches are similar, the key differences lie in their bottom housings.
The Crystal Brown features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, indicating that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound feedback and feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows users to experience different qualities when pressing down on the switch versus releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the typing experience and sound profile. While the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their nylon bottom housing offer users varying levels of sound feedback and feel. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller one, the selection of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown has a lighter touch. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue has a heavier feel with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Crystal Brown offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Blue. So, if a lighter touch is preferred for longer typing sessions, the Crystal Brown would be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Dustproof Blue.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the user feels when pressing down on a key. Therefore, whether you choose the Crystal Brown or the Dustproof Blue switch, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of travel distance. It is worth noting that having the same travel distance can provide consistency and familiarity for users who switch between keyboards with different switch types. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound profile.
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 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 Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch provide distinctly different auditory experiences. The Crystal Brown is known for its relatively quiet operation, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch is recognized for its loud and satisfying click with each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing noise. Remember that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the comparison between the Outemu Crystal Brown and Dustproof Blue switches offers a contrast in tactile feedback. The Crystal Brown switch is praised for its smooth bump and tactile response, providing a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a discernible actuation point. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a crisp and tactile click with each key press, delivering a more pronounced tactile sensation that can be satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a smooth tactile response, the Crystal Brown switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a loud and satisfying click with each keystroke and prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for your typing style. It is important to consider your personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Blue could be the way to go. Additionally, if you enjoy a quieter typing experience, the Crystal Brown may be more suitable, while if you prefer a audible clicky sound, the Dustproof Blue might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most.
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