Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Milk Blue offer two distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a more subtle typing experience, perfect for office environments or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound with each key press. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying sensation of hearing and feeling each keystroke. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Milk Blue switches are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to the overall aesthetic. In terms of sound and feel, the polycarbonate top housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience for both switches.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials, with the Dustproof Black featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Milk Blue also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as its softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to subtle variations in the typing experience between the two switches, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Milk Blue switches results in a unique typing experience. While the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has more influence on the overall bottom-out sound and feel. Whether one prefers the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a blend of qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch with a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. Additionally, the Dustproof Black requires a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, while the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. In terms of weight, the Dustproof Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Milk Blue offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is crucial as it determines the typing experience and feedback that users will receive. The 4mm travel distance of both switches ensures a consistent typing feel and performance across both options. Whether you choose the Dustproof Black or the Milk Blue, you can expect a similar keypress experience due to their equal travel distances. Users can enjoy a smooth and responsive typing experience with either switch, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Milk 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 Dustproof Black linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a consideration. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is recognized for its audible click sound with each key press, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy auditory feedback. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black is appreciated for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, offering a fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is praised for its tactile feedback and pronounced actuation point, giving typists a tangible sensation with each key press. Both switches provide distinct tactile experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a smoother linear feel or a more tactile clicky response.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Milk Blue switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preference, users can select between the quieter operation of the Dustproof Black or the audible click sound of the Milk Blue. Additionally, the differences in tactile feedback between the switches cater to individual typing preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and reliability, giving newcomers a range of options to explore in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a smooth linear feel, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback of a lighter switch, the Milk Blue could be more suitable. Consider your typing style, noise preferences, and overall gaming or typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it's important to choose the one that aligns with your preferences.
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