Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that they both offer unique features tailored to different preferences. The Dustproof Black is best known for its smooth linear feel, while the Tourmaline Blue stands out with its deep and thocky sound profile, thanks to a lengthened single-stage spring. The Dustproof Black falls under the category of a linear switch, providing a consistent typing experience, whereas the Tourmaline Blue is also a linear switch but offers a more bouncy and satisfying feel to each keystroke. The Dustproof Black is ideal for those who prefer a straightforward and consistent typing experience, while the Tourmaline Blue appeals to users seeking a more tactile and immersive typing sensation. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. However, the Dustproof Black incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile compared to the nylon housing of the Dustproof Black.
The contrasting bottom housing materials of the two switches play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on these switches. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Black creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience that differs from the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel of key presses, showcasing how different materials can influence the overall typing experience.
Overall, while both the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue share a polycarbonate top housing that creates similar sound profiles, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing in the Dustproof Black or the clearer and more resonant sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Tourmaline Blue, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall feel and sound of a keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Black is the heavier option. The Dustproof Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavy switch overall. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue is the lighter option with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. The actuation force influences the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Tourmaline Blue for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Dustproof Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches provide a consistent keypress experience with the same amount of travel required to actuate the switch. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key responsiveness and typing feel when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, resulting in a consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch is known for having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is best known for offering a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. The Tourmaline Blue switch excels in immersing users in a pleasant auditory experience, while the Dustproof Black switch offers a more versatile and moderate sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is described as having a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. Additionally, the Tourmaline Blue switch is also labeled as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and minimal force activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. The mild nature of the Tourmaline Blue switch ensures a gentle and approachable typing experience that caters to a wide range of users.
Overall, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile, as well as its buttery and easy-to-press feel, providing users with a satisfying and immersive typing experience. In comparison, while the Outemu Dustproof Black switch may lack specific descriptors, it offers a versatile and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various users and scenarios. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch without any specific standout features, the Dustproof Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are seeking a switch that offers a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Tourmaline Blue is the way to go. Consider your desired typing experience, sound preferences, and actuation force requirements when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what will provide you with the most enjoyable and productive typing experience.
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