Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly affect both your typing experience and gaming performance. The Outemu Dustproof Black, a linear switch, is an intriguing option that offers a consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch is celebrated for its super smooth operation, utilizing the latest molds from Huano to provide a balanced sound profile that’s neither too quiet nor overly resonant. While the Dustproof Black may appeal to users seeking simplicity and durability, the Strawberry Latte caters to those who prioritize a refined acoustic experience alongside its smooth action. 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
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches employ different materials for their top housing, which significantly affects the acoustic profile and overall feel of the switches. The Outemu uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, more resonant sound profile due to its stiffness and translucency. This makes it particularly advantageous for users who enjoy the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, allowing for a vibrant and illuminated keyboard experience. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a POK top housing. POK, or polyketone, is recognized for its smoothness and exceptional durability. While it offers a slightly softer sound profile compared to polycarbonate, the unique properties of POK contribute to a clacky feel and maintain the aesthetic aspect of visual light shows albeit in a different manner than polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which is a classic choice known for its acoustic dampening qualities. The nylon bottom housing in both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte is designed to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a fuller, deeper sound profile that many types enthusiasts prefer. As such, the bottoming-out sound and feel from both switches will be quite similar due to the identical material used in this component, ensuring that users experience a consistent auditory sensation when the switch is activated. This similarity enhances the full-bodied impact of typing, making for comfortable and enjoyable keystrokes regardless of the differing top housing materials.
Overall, the contrasting top materials between the Dustproof Black and the Strawberry Latte lead to unique acoustic outcomes while still maintaining a comparable bottom-out experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing. The vibrancy and clarity provided by the polycarbonate housing of the Dustproof Black allows for a sharper typing sound, adding a distinctive edge. Meanwhile, the smoother tactile response of the POK housing in the Strawberry Latte balances between durability and sound, creating a pleasing clack without sacrificing robustness. For users seeking varied tactile experiences, these differences in top housing materials alongside the consistent nylon bottom housing will allow them to enjoy rich and distinctive auditory results, lending versatility to their keyboard setups.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch to the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, one can notice a significant difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Black requires a heavier 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. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte is much lighter, with an actuation force of only 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. Thus, for users seeking a softer touch and less fatigue, the Huano Strawberry Latte would be the better option. Conversely, those who appreciate a firmer resistance in their keystrokes would find the Outemu Dustproof Black more appealing. Overall, the differences in force characteristics between these two switches highlight the diverse preferences among users regarding typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Dustproof Black offers a more traditional switch feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial keystroke. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Latte suggests it is designed for quicker response times, making it potentially more appealing to gamers and those who favor speed. Ultimately, if you prioritize a deeper, more tactile experience, the Outemu Dustproof Black would be the better choice, whereas the Huano Strawberry Latte is suited for those who enjoy faster, more responsive keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
The Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 switch lacks a defined sound profile, which may suggest a more muted or unremarkable auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch is known for its balanced sound. It strikes a middle ground—not too quiet, but without excessive resonance. This characteristic allows it to blend well in various environments, making it a more versatile option for different users. It’s essential to remember that the overall sound produced can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black does not have a specified tactile feedback experience. However, the Huano Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its super smooth action, attributed to the latest manufacturing techniques employed by Huano. This smoothness can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a satisfying sensation for users who appreciate a fluid keystroke without any hesitation or roughness. If you prefer a more tactile or distinctive feel, the Dustproof Black may not meet those expectations, given the lack of details on its characteristics.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Black switch lacks noteworthy qualities in both sound and feel, the Huano Strawberry Latte provides a balanced auditory output and an exceptionally smooth typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that combines these subjective qualities, the Strawberry Latte would be a more favorable choice, as it stands out with its refined characteristics, whereas the Dustproof Black may leave users wanting more.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and are looking for a more robust feel, the Dustproof Black might be the switch for you, especially if you enjoy a firmer tactile experience while typing or gaming. However, if you prioritize a smoother, lighter touch, the Huano Strawberry Latte is an excellent choice, particularly due to its super smooth action and balanced sound profile that offers a satisfying acoustic experience without being too loud. Ultimately, if you want a switch that encourages heavier typing with noticeable resistance, go with the Dustproof Black; but if lighter keystrokes with a smooth finish appeal to you, the Strawberry Latte should be your go-to. Assess your typing habits and sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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