Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Dustproof Red both offer a linear typing experience to users. The Dustproof Black is known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also provides a linear feel but with a slightly lighter actuation force, appealing to users who prefer a more responsive 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Outemu Dustproof Red switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting purposes, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. The similarities in the top housing material of both switches ensure that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetic options when using either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Dustproof Red switches feature nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound waves than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to enjoy a more immersive typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the differences lie in the impact each housing has on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile, making both the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Dustproof Red switches versatile options for those looking to enhance their keyboard setup with high-quality housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dustproof Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Dustproof Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, allowing for a smoother typing experience. For individuals who prefer a lighter touch, the Dustproof Red would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to actuate the key. On the other hand, those who prefer a heavier typing feel may opt for the Dustproof Black for a more satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar feel and experience when typing on either switch as they offer the same key travel distance. This ensures consistency in the typing experience across both switches. Overall, both switches provide a standard travel distance that is neither longer nor shorter than the other, giving users the same level of tactile feedback and actuation point regardless of their choice.
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 Red.
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 Dustproof Black linear switch tends to produce a slightly quieter typing experience compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. The Dustproof Black is known for having a slightly muted sound when pressed, which can be a preferred choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red may have a slightly higher pitched sound when pressed, which can be more audible during typing sessions. However, it's important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard casing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation throughout typing. The Dustproof Red linear switch, on the other hand, is also praised for its smooth feel and linear actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for users. Both switches offer a similar level of smoothness and lack of tactile bump, making them suitable for those who prefer linear switches for gaming or typing tasks.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Dustproof Red linear switches offer similar levels of performance in terms of feel and sound. Both switches provide a smooth keystroke with a linear actuation, making them ideal for those who prefer a consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and the overall typing feel desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier switch with 80 grams of force, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with 60 grams of force, the Dustproof Red would be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of each switch to ensure you choose the one that best fits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you during use.
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