Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Spring Breeze both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that provides a tactile and audible feedback with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze also falls under the clicky switch category, offering a similar tactile feedback but with a slightly different feel. While both switches have their own merits, the Dustproof Blue is known for its durability and dustproof design, making it a reliable option for those who want a long-lasting switch. Conversely, the Spring Breeze is favored for its smooth keystrokes and enhanced responsiveness, perfect for users who prioritize typing speed and accuracy. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Spring Breeze lies in their housing materials. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Both the Dustproof Blue and the Spring Breeze feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of switches made with nylon housing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic housings. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are more pronounced in both switches due to the nylon material used. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the bottom housing remains consistent between the two switches.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Spring Breeze differ in their top housing materials – polycarbonate and nylon, respectively – they both share nylon bottom housings. The top housing material influences the sound profile when pressing down on a key or letting go, with the Dustproof Blue producing a crisper sound and the Spring Breeze yielding a fuller sound. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the feel of typing and the top housing affecting the sound produced.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 40 grams. Similarly, the Dustproof Blue also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams in contrast to the Spring Breeze's 55 grams. This means that the Dustproof Blue switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force when compared to the Spring Breeze switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Dustproof Blue switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use may lean towards the Spring Breeze switch. In either case, both switches offer a satisfying clicky feedback that can enhance typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. With a travel distance of 4mm, both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback that is noticeable but not overly pronounced. Whether you choose the Dustproof Blue or the Spring Breeze, you can expect a consistent typing experience with a moderate amount of key travel.
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 Spring Breeze.
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 its loud and satisfying click, making it a popular choice among users who enjoy the tactile feedback of a traditional clicky switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is also known for its crisp click sound, providing a similar auditory experience to the Dustproof Blue. Both switches offer a distinct clicky sound that can enhance typing pleasure, although personal preference may dictate which sound profile is preferred.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offers a tactile bump and resistance that gives users a sense of confirmation with each key press. The switch provides a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy the feedback of a clicky switch. Similarly, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is designed to provide a tactile bump and resistance, offering a similar typing experience to the Dustproof Blue. Both switches provide a tactile feel that can improve typing accuracy and comfort for users who prefer a clicky switch.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Spring Breeze clicky switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the distinctive clicky sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. Whether you choose the Dustproof Blue or Spring Breeze clicky switch, you can expect a reliable and enjoyable typing experience that is characteristic of Outemu mechanical switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier key press with the Dustproof Blue at 65 grams, then it might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key press with the Spring Breeze at 55 grams, then that switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, whether you prefer a medium-heavy or medium-light key press, and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the switch that suits your typing needs the best.
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