Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Silent Grey offer two distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Black is known for its linear feel, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches are designed to offer a quieter typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump for added feedback. If you prioritize a silent and highly tactile typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switches may be the ideal choice for you. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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 the Outemu Silent Grey are quite similar in terms of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the translucency of polycarbonate, it is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This material also provides a clear and resonant sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Overall, both switches share similar acoustic properties when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Dustproof Black features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Grey also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, leading to similar acoustic qualities as the Dustproof Black. Both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, offering a more satisfying sound when typing.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Silent Grey share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they diverge in their use of nylon bottom housing. Both switches strive to offer distinct sound profiles for users, with the Dustproof Black providing a sharper and crisper sound and the Silent Grey offering a deeper and fuller sound. Whether one prefers a clearer or a rounder sound profile, both switches utilize their housing materials to create a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role. The Dustproof Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. The Dustproof Black is considered heavier, while the Silent Grey falls into the medium-heavy category. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Silent Grey, while users seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the Dustproof Black. Each switch's unique force characteristics cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they both provide a similar keystroke experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get comparable results in terms of how the switches feel when typing. The Dustproof Black and Silent Grey switches are equal in this aspect, offering a consistent typing experience for those who prefer linear or tactile switches.
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 Silent Grey.
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 due to its dustproof design. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is specifically designed to provide a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those in shared environments or who prefer a more discreet keyboard. Both switches offer a reduced noise level compared to traditional switches, but the Silent Grey switch is tailored towards maximizing silence.
In regards to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch features a tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback for each key press, enhancing typing accuracy and comfort. The Dustproof Black switch offers a linear feel without any tactile feedback, while the Silent Grey switch prioritizes tactility for a more engaging typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a focus on durability and minimal noise, the Dustproof Black switch would be a suitable alternative. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup, so trying out both switches in person or reading more reviews can help you make a well-informed decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the feel and sound you prefer in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a switch known for its durability, the Dustproof Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a highly tactile feel, the Silent Grey switch would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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