Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch. The Dustproof Blue switch is best known for its satisfying clicky feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers who enjoy auditory confirmation of their key presses. On the other hand, the Red switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and linear feel, ideal for fast-paced gaming and those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage requirements. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches provides similar characteristics.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red are made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience, providing a different tactile feel and sound compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. The nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a distinct typing experience, separate from the qualities provided by the top housings.
When considering the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are divided between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Red. The top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing has more of an effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This division allows for a balance of characteristics in the typing experience, blending the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate with the depth and fullness of nylon to create a unique and satisfying typing sensation in both switches.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch with an actuation force of 46 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue requires 65 grams, while the Red requires 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Red switch, as its actuation force is slightly lighter. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, as it requires a slightly heavier force for both actuation and bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and Outemu Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between these two types of switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness, with neither switch being shorter or longer than the other. Overall, whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Dustproof Blue switch or the smoothness of the Red switch, you can expect a similar travel distance and typing experience with both options.
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 Red.
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 known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. The clicky sound of the Dustproof Blue switch is crisp and satisfying, providing auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump or audible click. The Red switch offers a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for environments where noise may be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing a noticeable tactile feedback to the user. The actuation force required for the Dustproof Blue switch is. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, allowing for a consistent typing experience. The actuation force required for the Red switch is.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue switch provides a tactile and audible typing experience, while the Red switch offers a smooth and quiet alternative. Depending on your preference for feedback and noise level, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. Keep in mind that other factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction can also influence the overall typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile and audible feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue clicky switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of feel and sound you prefer in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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