Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Akko Rosewood offer distinct experiences catering to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, delivering an audible and tactile feedback that many typists enjoy, making it ideal for those who appreciate a lively typing experience and want to stay engaged with each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that ensures a refined feel with each press. While the Blue switch may appeal to gamers and typists seeking that nostalgic auditory feedback, the Rosewood will likely attract those who prefer quieter, uninterrupted typing. 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
50g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Akko Rosewood, a distinct contrast emerges in the choice of top housing, while the bottom materials align in their use of nylon. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile during typing. This is particularly beneficial for RGB enthusiasts, as polycarbonate’s translucency allows RGB lighting to manifest vividly through the keycap, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Conversely, the Rosewood employs a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This creates a more muted acoustic experience that can feel warmer and more rounded during typing, showcasing the dichotomy between these two materials and their effects on a typing experience.
On the bottom housing front, both switches share a commonality in the use of nylon, which further shapes the overall auditory experience when typing. Both the Dustproof Blue and the Rosewood switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, resulting in a more profound and rounded sound profile. Given that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches inherently provide a satisfying auditory experience when key presses are fully depressed. This commonality bridges the gap between their differing top housings, as the nylon construction ensures a consistent level of comfort and resonance regardless of the differences in upper materials.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials leads to a unique typing experience for each switch. The Outemu Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top offers a brightness that contrasts with the robust and muted sound from its nylon bottom, delivering a dualistic acoustic profile. Meanwhile, the Akko Rosewood presents a harmonious and inviting feel through its entirely nylon construction, resonating deeper and producing a softer sound overall. Thus, while both models utilize nylon for the bottom housing, their diverging top materials allow them to cater to distinct preferences in sound and acoustics, giving each switch a character distinctly its own.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, reflecting their targeted user experiences. The Dustproof Blue requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 40 grams needed for the Rosewood, making the Blue switch more suitable for users who appreciate a stronger push feel for a substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue also outmatches the Rosewood, measuring 65 grams against the Rosewood's lighter 50 grams. This means that the Dustproof Blue is the heavier option, ideal for those who prefer a more tactile feedback when typing. Conversely, the Rosewood's lighter actuation and bottom out forces make it a compelling choice for those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions, minimizing fatigue. Overall, while both switches serve different preferences, the Dustproof Blue appeals to users seeking a firmer typing experience, whereas the Rosewood caters to those prioritizing comfort and endurance.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they provide the same amount of key travel from top to bottom when pressed. This means that users will experience similar tactile feedback and keypress depth with both switches, making them comparable in terms of travel distance. Since they share the same measurement, keyboards equipped with either switch will deliver a consistent typing experience for those seeking a defined keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 clicky switch is characterized by its distinct clicky sound, often associated with a loud, sharp auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch produces a deep, thocky sound straight out of the box, enriched by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that enhances the overall acoustic quality. While the Dustproof Blue aims for a more pronounced click, the Rosewood offers a subtler audio experience that resonates with a more muted quality, appealing to those who prefer a less intrusive typing sound. Ultimately, the sound experience can vary significantly based on the keyboard build and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch typically provides a tactile feedback that signifies when the key is actuated, which is a preferred characteristic for users who enjoy a more interactive typing session. This switch's tactile bump allows for a pronounced sensation at the actuation point. Meanwhile, the Akko Rosewood linear switch offers a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke experience, devoid of any tactile feedback. This linear feel appeals to users who appreciate a consistent key press without the interruption of a tactile bump, enabling rapid and fluid typing or gaming sequences. While both switches cater to different preferences, they can be chosen based on the desired interaction style.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch serve distinct typist experiences, especially in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue's clickiness provides a unique auditory feedback while the Rosewood's thocky sound appeals to those seeking a more subdued acoustic profile. On the tactile side, the Blue's tactile bump contrasts with the Rosewood's smoothness. Each offers a unique approach, so the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize pronounced auditory feedback or silent, seamless keystrokes in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switches could be ideal for you, especially if you appreciate the medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, which provides a more deliberate feel as you type. These switches can be particularly satisfying in a home office or a dedicated gaming setup where sound feedback may not be a concern. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter experience, the Akko Rosewood switches would be a better fit. With a light actuation force of just 50 grams and a deep, thocky sound that’s both satisfying and refined thanks to factory lubrication, these switches excel in any environment, especially shared spaces or offices where noise can be disruptive. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not just your tactile preferences but also consider where you will be using your keyboard most frequently.
Mentioned in this article
