Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Gold both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with an audible click sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy the feel and sound of typing. On the other hand, the Gold switch also offers a clicky typing experience but with a different tactile feel, appealing to users who prefer a slightly softer touch. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Gold switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear housing of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through. In terms of sound, both switches will provide a similar typing experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Outemu Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that typing on the Dustproof Blue switch will provide a different tactile experience compared to the Gold, with a more muted and subdued sound.
When considering the overall typing experience of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Gold switches, it's important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. This means that while the two switches may have similar polycarbonate top housings, the choice between a nylon bottom housing in the Dustproof Blue and a polycarbonate bottom housing in the Gold will result in distinct typing experiences with varying sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dustproof Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Gold has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold switch, as it requires less force to actuate. In contrast, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Dustproof Blue, which offers a higher actuation force for a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches provide a satisfying clicky sound, but the slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces results in a varying tactile feedback, suiting different preferences when it comes to typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click, making them popular choices for typing enthusiasts. The similarity in travel distance between the Dustproof Blue and Gold switches ensures that users will get similar typing experiences with either option. Overall, whether you choose the Dustproof Blue or Gold clicky switch, you can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Blue and Gold.
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 Blue clicky switch is a popular choice for those who enjoy a louder typing experience, with a distinctive click sound that provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is also known for its crisp click sound, offering a similar level of noise but with a potentially slightly different pitch or tone. When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Blue switch is often praised for its tactile bump, which provides a noticeable tactile response when typing. The Gold switch, on the other hand, is also known for its tactile bump, offering a similar level of feedback to the user. Overall, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, so users can expect to get comparable results in terms of noise level and tactile feedback regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and any additional features or benefits that may be offered by one switch over the other.
Conclusion
Overall, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more tactile bump, then the Dustproof Blue switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke, then the Gold switch might be more to your liking. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and ultimately choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences. Happy typing!
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