Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Pine 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 and the KTT Pine. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Pine is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. For those who prefer a satisfying click and tactile feedback, the Dustproof Blue may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience without any distractions, the Pine switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Pine, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Dustproof Blue utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Pine uses polycarbonate for the bottom housing, contributing to a clearer and more resonant sound profile.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This variation in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing, with the Dustproof Blue offering a deeper and fuller typing experience while the Pine provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the housing materials of the Dustproof Blue and the Pine are split between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their housing materials, with the Dustproof Blue providing a softer and fuller sound profile, while the Pine delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, the most notable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams, making it slightly more resistant to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Dustproof Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down. This means that the Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Pine switch may be ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation with both switches. While the travel distance is equal between the two switches, other factors such as actuation force and sound profile may differ, leading to distinct typing experiences. Despite these differences, the travel distance of 4 mm remains consistent between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
The Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 switch does not have any specific descriptors to give us an idea of its sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The bass-heavy and mellow characteristics of the Pine switch can provide a satisfying auditory experience, especially for those who enjoy a more profound sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue again lacks specific descriptors to provide insight into its tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, highlighting its smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. With a factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction, the Pine switch offers an effortless and uniform typing experience, allowing fingers to glide across the keys with ease for a satisfying tactile feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue and KTT Pine linear switches differ in sound and feel characteristics, they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue switch may provide a satisfying clicky sound without specific descriptors, while the Pine switch delivers a bassy and low-pitched sound along with a buttery and creamy typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches have distinct qualities that could enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches on various keyboards and keycap combinations will help you find the perfect match for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Blue would be a suitable choice. This switch is known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a great option. The Pine switch is designed to minimize friction for a seamless key travel and provides a quiet, bassy sound profile during key presses. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and audible click sound (Dustproof Blue) or a smooth, effortless typing experience with a quieter sound (Pine).
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