Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Kailh Plum offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue switch is best known for its clicky sound and responsive feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch stands out for its hefty feel and unique tactile feedback, offering a different typing sensation compared to traditional tactile switches. While the Dustproof Blue is categorized as a clicky switch, the Plum is described as neutral, mild, and stepped. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences in typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Kailh Plum switches share similarities in that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches designed with RGB lighting as it allows the light to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Blue features a nylon material while the Plum utilizes nylon as well. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Kailh Plum switches offers a balance of qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel. While both switches benefit from the stiffer and clearer sound profile of polycarbonate in the top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences that can cater to a variety of users based on their sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium-heavy category. The Dustproof Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Plum has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Dustproof Blue is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Plum, but heavier in terms of bottom out force. This means that the Dustproof Blue may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Plum may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. If one prefers a similar feel, opting for the Dustproof Blue with a lighter actuation force may offer comparable results to the heavier Plum switch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dustproof Blue offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Plum switch. Despite the slight difference in travel distance, both switches fall within the standard range of key travel distances. Depending on personal preference, the Dustproof Blue may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press, while the Plum switch may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly shallower key press for faster response times. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 providing a satisfying click sound with each keystroke, which can be quite loud and crisp. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it produces a moderate sound that is not overly loud or quiet, making it a versatile option for a variety of settings. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by your keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so it is difficult to compare directly. However, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as feeling hefty with a unique tactile bump that is not as pronounced as other tactile switches. This gives it a distinctive typing experience that is not too intense, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, the Plum switch is also mentioned to have a stepped feel, providing a gentler typing experience compared to more aggressive tactile switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is favored for its satisfying click sound, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch stands out for its unique tactile feel and neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a pleasant typing experience. Keep in mind that the ultimate typing feel and sound will also be influenced by factors such as your keyboard setup and keycaps. Ultimately, trying out both switches side by side can give you a better understanding of which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and tactile feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a clicky switch with no specific standout features, the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a unique, hefty feel with a moderate tactile bump, the Plum tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what kind of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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