Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Outemu Dustproof Black is noted for its lack of notable attributes, making it a straightforward choice for users seeking a basic yet reliable typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stands out with its medium-weight construction and all-POM design, offering a delightful thocky sound profile and exceptional smoothness that caters to those who desire a more premium feel without breaking the bank. While the Dustproof Black may appeal to minimalists who prefer simplicity in functionality, the Sea Salt Smoothie captivates gamers and typists alike with its quality and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, one notable difference lies in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Dustproof Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer structure. This translucency not only contributes to a clearer acoustic output but also enhances the visual effect of RGB lighting for those who prefer illuminated keys. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie employs a POM top housing, which lends itself to a deeper, more muted acoustic experience. While the POM material offers a unique sound, its softer characteristics create a rounder, less piercing profile than that of polycarbonate, highlighting the varied auditory experiences each switch can offer.

The differing materials used in the bottom housings of the two switches further accentuate their contrasting acoustic profiles. The Dustproof Black features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that reinforces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound waves owing to its relatively softer plastic composition. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing also produces a deeper and more muted sound, mirroring the softer characteristics found in the nylon but with its unique twist. The presence of POM in both top and bottom housings of the Sea Salt Smoothie results in a consistent auditory experience that leans towards a warm, dampened output compared to the Dustproof Black.

Ultimately, the interplay between the housing materials results in distinct yet complementary typing experiences. The Outemu Dustproof Black, with its polycarbonate top for clarity and nylon bottom for depth, brings a sharper response when releasing keys while maintaining a rich sound on bottom-out. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie consistently delivers a muted yet pleasing sound profile through the soft touch of both POM housings. If users are drawn to a more harmonious sound across key presses, they may favor the smoothness of the Sea Salt Smoothie, while those seeking clarity in their acoustic feedback may prefer the Dustproof Black. Despite the differences, both switches serve to cater to varied typing preferences and aesthetic tastes, allowing users to find a balance that suits their individual needs.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Dustproof Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie features a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, which caters to users who favor prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. While the Dustproof Black also has a bottom out force of 80 grams—indicating its firmness when fully pressed down—the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie's bottom out force is not available, preventing a direct comparison on that front. Therefore, for those who prioritize a lighter touch for ease of typing, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be the preferable choice, while those who enjoy a heavier and more tactile feel should opt for the Dustproof Black.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Dustproof Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns more with the traditional preference for a deeper press, offering a more tactile experience that can be appealing for users who enjoy a hearty feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, catering to those who favor quicker response times, a trait increasingly sought after, especially by gamers. This shorter distance may feel more abrupt and can enhance typing speed for some users. Therefore, if you are looking for a deeper, more substantial key press, the Outemu Dustproof Black would be the better option, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch does not have specific qualities mentioned, making it difficult to assess its auditory profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch is celebrated for its thocky sound, which provides a satisfying auditory experience without being overly loud. This characteristic contributes to a refined typing atmosphere, yet it's important to remember that sound can vary greatly depending on the keyboard's construction and the materials used for keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch lacks detailed descriptions, leaving its tactile response ambiguous. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, however, is noted for its exceptional smoothness, ensuring a pleasant typing experience throughout its travel. This smoothness is enhanced by its construction from POM, a material known for its low friction and durability, further contributing to a satisfying keypress that many typists will appreciate.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Black switch does not have defined qualities in sound or feel, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a thocky sound profile and a notably smooth experience. For those drawn to the tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards, the choice may come down to personal preference and additional factors such as choice of board and keycaps. If sound and feel quality are paramount to your typing experience, opting for the Sea Salt Smoothie will undoubtedly provide a more enjoyable and satisfying experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a heavier typing experience and prefer a switch that provides substantial resistance, the Dustproof Black, with its 80-gram bottom-out force, might be the right choice for you. This switch is likely to appeal to users who appreciate a strong tactile feedback and want to minimize accidental key presses, making it ideal for gamers or those who type with a lot of force. On the other hand, if you’re after a smoother feel and a more pleasant acoustics, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is an excellent option; its all-POM construction ensures a silky-smooth experience as you type, along with a thocky sound profile that many users enjoy. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prefer the sturdy feedback of the Dustproof Black or the velvety sensation offered by the Sea Salt Smoothie.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more