Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Silent Green, a linear switch. The Dustproof Blue switch is renowned for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes and lack of audible click, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them appealing options for different types of users. 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The primary difference between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Silent Green lies in their bottom housing materials. While the Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, the Silent Green has a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being stiffer, leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This means that the Dustproof Blue will have a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Silent Green.
In terms of the top housing material, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Silent Green utilize polycarbonate. This choice in material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. This similarity in housing material means that both switches will offer a similar sound profile, with the main difference coming from their bottom housing material.
Overall, while both the Dustproof Blue and the Silent Green utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the key distinction lies in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a sharper and more resonant sound. As a result, users can choose between a switch with a duller and rounder sound (Dustproof Blue) or a switch with a crisper and sharper sound (Silent Green) based on their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch provide different typing experiences. The Dustproof Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In comparison, the Silent Green has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a better option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy feel, with the Dustproof Blue being the heavier of the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference, with some favoring the lighter weight for longer typing sessions and others preferring the heavier weight for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both provide the same tactile feedback and actuation force, but the Dustproof Blue offers a clicky sound while the Silent Green is quieter. Despite the difference in sound, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their 4mm travel distance. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both provide the same amount of key travel. Ultimately, whether you choose the Outemu Dustproof Blue or the Outemu Silent Green, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silent Green.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for producing a crisp and satisfying click with each press, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is designed to provide a quiet typing experience, ideal for environments where noise level is a concern. The Silent Green switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without the audible clicking sound associated with the Dustproof Blue switch.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue switch is known for its tactile feedback, with a slight resistance at the actuation point that provides a satisfying sensation when typing. On the contrary, the Silent Green switch offers a linear keystroke without any tactile bump, resulting in a smoother and more seamless typing experience. The Silent Green switch tends to feel more lightweight and effortless compared to the Dustproof Blue switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is best suited for those who prefer a tactile and audible typing experience, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is ideal for individuals seeking a quieter and smoother typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Depending on your typing style and preferences, you can achieve equally satisfying results with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying audible click with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, then the Outemu Silent Green linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences and environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure you have the best typing experience possible. Ultimately, the decision between the Dustproof Blue and Silent Green switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
