Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Kailh Sage. The Dustproof Blue switch is known for its reliability and durability due to its dustproof feature. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is renowned for its distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the Dustproof Blue may be favored for its reliability, the Kailh Sage offers a more invigorating and crunchy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

Kailh Sage Clicky

$3.10 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Blue and Kailh Sage both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Dustproof Blue utilizes nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics as the Dustproof Blue.

While both the Dustproof Blue and the Kailh Sage share similarities in their top polycarbonate housings, the nylon bottom housings offer slightly different sound profiles. The Dustproof Blue's bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound due to nylon's absorbing qualities, while the Kailh Sage's bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound experience. This divergence in bottom housing materials may result in subtle variations in typing experience and sound feedback between the two switches. However, overall, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches, with the main differences lying in the nuances of the sound profile.

In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. With the Dustproof Blue and Kailh Sage, the combination of polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound profile and nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound creates a well-rounded typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.

Weight

The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Blue is 65 grams, while the Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This makes the Sage the heavier switch in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Blue, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Kailh Sage. Both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience overall.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have different travel distances, with the Dustproof Blue having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Sage having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sage. The Dustproof Blue's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the Sage's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of standard travel distances, but if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, you may lean towards the Sage with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the Dustproof Blue with its longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Dustproof Blue and Kailh Sage switches offer different subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue switch is known for providing a unique typing experience, while the Sage switch is appreciated for its distinct clicky feel. In terms of sound, the Dustproof Blue lacks a specific descriptor, while the Sage switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Blue lacks a specific descriptor, whereas the Sage switch is noted for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation with a firm actuation force. Overall, both switches offer their own set of favorable qualities, with the Dustproof Blue providing a different typing experience compared to the Sage switch. It is important to consider personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best match for your needs.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are not specifically looking for a distinct sound or feel, the Dustproof Blue might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force, crave a sharp clicky typing experience, and appreciate a crunchy or invigorating feel while typing, the Kailh Sage switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more