Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Tom offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Tom is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump at the actuation point for feedback during typing. While the Dustproof Black may appeal to gamers and fast typists for its straightforward feel, the Tom might be preferred by those who enjoy a tactile response for a more engaging 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
55g
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
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Tom switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness and clarity. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with lighting effects. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic compatibility with RGB lighting, both the Dustproof Black and Tom switches offer similar results.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Black features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Tom switch also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a duller and rounder sound due to the material's sound absorption properties. Despite the differences in sound characteristics attributed to nylon bottom housings between the two switches, both the Dustproof Black and Tom switches share the benefits of using nylon for their bottom housings.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Dustproof Black and Tom switches may have differences in their housing materials, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective top and bottom housings contributes to a well-rounded typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Dustproof Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams, making it slightly heavier to press. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Black is 80 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown, making the Dustproof Black switch overall heavier. Users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Black for its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Tom switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Dustproof Black providing a heavier typing experience and the Tom offering a potentially lighter touch for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. The Dustproof Black offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Tom provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Dustproof Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Tom.
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 and the Outemu Tom tactile switch have distinct differences in sound and feel. The Dustproof Black switch is known for its smooth linear action with a quieter typing sound. On the other hand, the Tom switch offers a tactile bump for a more pronounced typing feedback, resulting in a slightly louder sound compared to the Dustproof Black. When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Black provides a consistent keystroke with no tactile feedback, while the Tom switch offers a tactile bump that provides a satisfying feel for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer reliable performance for different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier keystroke, the Dustproof Black with its 80-gram bottom out force would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke, the Tom with its lower bottom out force would be more appropriate. Additionally, consider the characteristics you value most in a switch, whether it be smoothness, sound, or tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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