Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Akko Rosewood presents distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Dustproof Black, categorized as a linear switch, offers a smooth, uninterrupted key press experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment or seek to maximize their gaming efficiency, as there’s no tactile bump or audible click to disrupt focus. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood, also a linear switch, stands out with its distinctively rich and satisfying thocky sound, thanks to a carefully applied layer of factory lubricant that enhances both the auditory and tactile experience. This feature makes the Rosewood particularly appealing for users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing, providing a comforting auditory cue with each key stroke. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, but they evoke very different user experiences—one prioritizing silence and smoothness, and the other enriching the sound during use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Outemu Dustproof Black and Akko Rosewood switches present distinct variations, particularly in their top housings. The Dustproof Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which, due to its stiffness, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality is especially advantageous for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, particularly in scenarios involving RGB lighting where the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual effects. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer characteristics lend themselves to absorbing sound, resulting in a notably mellower auditory experience. This key difference in the top housing materials means that users will encounter contrasting sound profiles during typing: the Dustproof Black projects a brighter sound, while the Rosewood offers a more rounded tone.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Akko Rosewood use nylon, which creates a unified experience in terms of sound and feel. The characteristics of nylon as a housing material provide a deeper, fuller sound profile that is consistent across both switches. This similarity means that regardless of the contrasting top housing experiences, both switches will provide a similar bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when the key is fully pressed down. The shared nylon bottom housing contributes to a plush, cushioned experience, allowing for a comfortable and understated acoustics that complement the sharper or sodden nuances of their respective top housings.

Ultimately, the differences in the top housings create a nuanced experience between the Outemu Dustproof Black and Akko Rosewood switches, while their identical nylon bottom housings bridge a commonality in sound and feel. For users seeking a more vibrant typing sound, the Dustproof Black would be the optimal choice; however, those who favor a softer and smoother auditory feedback might lean towards the Rosewood. In either case, the combination of these unique qualities in the top housing, paired with the tranquil consistency of the nylon bottom, ensures that both switches have their distinctive characters, while still sharing core acoustic traits that enhance the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are distinct differences. The Dustproof Black has a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier switch. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood is lighter, with an actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter feel can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions and gaming, making it an ideal choice for users who want to minimize fatigue. Consequently, the Dustproof Black is heavier overall, while the Rosewood is the lighter option.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on a key, resulting in similar tactile feedback and performance during typing or gaming. Given that both switches have an identical travel distance, you'll enjoy a consistent experience regardless of which switch you choose, making them excellent options for those seeking a linear switch feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch offers a more muted experience, which some users may find underwhelming as it lacks distinctive acoustic characteristics. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch stands out for its deep, satisfying "thocky" sound, enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubricant that helps reduce friction and produce a richer auditory feedback. The Rosewood’s sound signature is generally considered more pronounced and enjoyable, giving it an edge for those who appreciate auditory cues while typing.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch likely offers a smooth experience, although specific details on its tactile feedback are not provided, which leaves some ambiguity. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch is known for delivering a smooth linear feel without tactile bumps, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers alike who enjoy seamless keystrokes. The consistency of the Rosewood’s feel is enhanced by the lubrication, resulting in an overall premium sensation as you type or game.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Black may provide a quieter and potentially less engaging experience in both sound and feel due to its lack of specific defining characteristics, the Akko Rosewood linear switch excels with its deep sound and smooth action, appealing to those who enjoy auditory and tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, if you seek a more dynamic typing experience, the Rosewood is the clear choice, while the Dustproof Black might still suit those who prefer a more subtle option.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavier switch and prefer a more resistant experience while typing or gaming, the Dustproof Black may be the better fit with its 80-gram bottom-out force. This switch is particularly suited for those who find satisfaction in a firmer click and require a switch that can withstand heavy use, potentially offering better typing accuracy due to the increased resistance. On the other hand, if you value a lighter touch and desire a smooth, satisfying auditory feedback, the Akko Rosewood is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions without as much finger fatigue, and the thocky sound—enhanced by factory lubrication—creates a gratifying auditory experience. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and preferred tactile feedback when making your selection; the Dustproof Black caters to those who appreciate greater heft and durability, while the Rosewood is perfect for those who prefer a more comfortable, pleasant sound and feel during their typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more