Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Dustproof Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback or audible clicks. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, offering a satisfying tactile bump and audible click with each key press. If you prioritize a quiet and seamless typing experience, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy the sensation of tactile feedback and the sound of clicking keys, the Dustproof Purple could be more to your liking. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
The Outemu Dustproof Black and Dustproof Purple both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. However, while the top housing material is the same for both switches, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housing. The Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing brings similar qualities to the switch, creating a comparable typing experience in terms of sound.
While the top housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and Dustproof Purple are identical, their bottom housing materials provide distinct characteristics to the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Black offers a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple also provides a similar typing experience, showcasing the rounder and duller sound associated with this material. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials in a switch can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard.
The impact of the housing materials on the typing experience is divided between the top and bottom housing of the switch. When typing on the Outemu Dustproof Black, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the Outemu Dustproof Purple will exhibit similar characteristics, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to the overall typing experience in a distinct way. Overall, whether using the Dustproof Black or Dustproof Purple, the combination of different housing materials in each switch offers a unique sound profile that caters to individual preferences in typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch differ in weight, with the Dustproof Black being heavier. The Dustproof Black requires an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Dustproof Purple has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suitable for longer typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Dustproof Purple, while those looking for a more solid typing feel may lean towards the Dustproof Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Ultimately, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Dustproof Black or the clicky feedback of the Dustproof Purple will depend on your personal preference for typing experience.
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 Dustproof Black and Dustproof 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
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is recognized for its tactile feedback and audible click sound with each keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Black offers a quieter typing experience, while the Dustproof Purple produces a more audible sound with each key press. As for feel, the Dustproof Black switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke with no tactile bump, while the Dustproof Purple switch offers a tactile bump and audible click upon actuation.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Dustproof Purple switches offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. While the Dustproof Black provides a quieter and linear typing experience, the Dustproof Purple offers a more tactile and audible typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a quieter typing experience with smooth keystrokes or a more tactile experience with audible feedback, both the Dustproof Black and Dustproof Purple switches can provide satisfying results depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and a smooth linear feel, the Dustproof Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound, the Dustproof Purple could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel and sound profile. Happy typing!
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