Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Silver 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 Silver, a linear switch. The Dustproof Blue is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy audible and tactile key presses. On the other hand, the Silver is best known for its smooth and consistent linear feel, perfect for gamers who prefer a quieter and more linear typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Outemu Silver switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This material is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it is translucent and allows for light to shine through. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarities in housing materials, the different top and bottom housings of each switch distribute these qualities differently, impacting the overall typing experience.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Silver switches results in a similar resonant sound profile, amplifying the sound when pressing down on a key and releasing it. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those looking to customize their keyboards with RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant colors to shine through. However, where they differ is in the nylon bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing creates a more subdued and muted sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Silver switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer a sharp, crisp sound due to the polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material results in variations in the overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with the nylon bottom housing, or a clearer, more resonant sound with the polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Blue requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silver's 45 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in this aspect. The actuation force is crucial for initiating a keystroke, while the bottom out force determines the amount of pressure needed to fully press the key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silver for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while others may lean towards the slightly heavier actuation force of the Dustproof Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that regardless of which one you choose, you will experience a similar travel distance when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, ensuring consistent typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Dustproof Blue clicky switch or the smooth actuation of the Silver linear switch, both options provide a familiar and comfortable 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 Silver.
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 satisfying clicky sound, reminiscent of the popular Cherry MX Blue switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch is known for its quiet and smooth keystrokes, offering a more subtle typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a loud and satisfying click with each press, while the Silver switch offers a nearly silent typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter environment.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a tactile bump and audible click, giving users tactile feedback with each keypress. This makes typing on the Dustproof Blue switch feel more pronounced and responsive. In contrast, the Silver switch offers a linear keystroke that provides a smooth and consistent feel without any tactile bump. This makes typing on the Silver switch feel more fluid and effortless, perfect for fast typists or gamers who prefer linear switches.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch would be a great choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Silver switch would suit you better. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch is a great choice with its satisfying click and medium-heavy bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Silver switch is the way to go with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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