Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze stand out as popular choices in their respective categories. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump or audible click of other switch types. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, offering a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each press. If you prefer a quiet and seamless typing experience, the Dustproof Black may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy the clicky sound and feedback of a traditional mechanical keyboard, the Spring Breeze could be the perfect fit 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
40g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Dustproof Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that when typing on switches from either of these models, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound absorption qualities of nylon. However, the top housings differ between the two models, with the Dustproof Black featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Spring Breeze has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze produces a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the two models, both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Black ensures a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a sharper and crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the softer nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more muted and rounded typing sound. This variety in housing materials allows for customization in sound profiles to suit individual preferences.
While the top housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer distinct sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent depth and fullness to the typing experience across both models. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel remains constant, regardless of the different top housing materials used in each model. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness when using either the Dustproof Black or the Spring Breeze, with the differences in top housing materials providing unique nuances to the overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Dustproof Black switch 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 Spring Breeze switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a softer and lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Spring Breeze switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience, the Dustproof Black switch would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience. In terms of comparing and contrasting, it is worth noting that both switches offer the same travel distance, which indicates that there is no significant difference in this aspect between the two. Whether you choose the Dustproof Black or the Spring Breeze, you can expect a consistent travel distance when typing.
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 Spring Breeze.
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 comparing the sound between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it's important to note that both switches vary in terms of their auditory feedback. The Dustproof Black is known for providing a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch offers a satisfying click with each keystroke, resulting in a more pronounced and audible typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is recognized for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, providing a reliable typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click with each press, giving typists a more tactile and engaging feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. While the Dustproof Black provides a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Spring Breeze switch gives typists a more tactile and audible feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel when typing. If you have a preference for a specific sound or feel, choosing the corresponding switch would ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should opt for the Dustproof Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force at 80 grams and a quieter typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who want a smooth and linear feel without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch with its lighter bottom out force of 55 grams and clicky sound is suited for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience. If you enjoy the satisfying click of each keystroke and prefer a lighter touch, the Spring Breeze switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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