Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Huano Sakura (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Huano Sakura (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Huano Sakura present distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Dustproof Blue, recognized for its clicky feedback, provides an auditory and tactile response that many typists appreciate, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a pronounced keystroke feel. In contrast, the Huano Sakura offers a smooth, linear action with a feather-light touch, perfect for users who prioritize speed and efficiency during extended typing sessions, as well as a quieter operation due to its medium acoustics. Both switches cater to unique needs in the typing experience—whether you prefer the satisfying click of the Dustproof Blue or the seamless glide of the Sakura. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Huano Sakura switches, it's evident that they diverge in their top housing compositions while sharing similarities in their bottom housing. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic makes polycarbonate particularly advantageous for applications with RGB lighting, as its clarity enhances the illumination effects. In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is recognized for its smoother feel and impressive durability. While the polycarbonate of the Dustproof Blue offers a clear and resonant sound, the POK of the Sakura ensures a smooth and clacky typing experience. Though their top housing materials differ, both switches aim to deliver distinct auditory experiences, benefiting from their unique properties.
The bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Huano Sakura are both made from nylon, a classic choice in switch construction. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which tend to absorb sound and contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar bottom-out sound across both switches. The presence of nylon in this aspect ensures a rounder and more muted auditory response, which serves to complement the brighter individual sound profiles generated by their respective top housing materials. Consequently, while the top housings introduce different tonal qualities, the familiar nature of nylon in the bottom housing fosters a sense of consistency in the overall experience.
In essence, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Huano Sakura switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, they converge in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in comparable sound profiles when typing. The juxtaposition of the sharper sound from polycarbonate and the smoother feel of POK in the top housing leads to a varied auditory experience, while the nylon bottom housing maintains a deeper and more resonant foundation. This differentiation allows each switch to stand out in its unique way while also delivering a shared quality through their nylon construction, demonstrating how the interplay between materials can shape the nuances of sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch with the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Dustproof Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy, ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sakura switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lower force is beneficial for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less physical effort and reduces finger fatigue. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences—heavier for the Dustproof Blue and lighter for the Sakura—the difference in force characteristics allows users to select based on their typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the differences are notable. The Dustproof Blue features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option of the two, while the Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Outemu switch provides more depth when pressed, offering a more substantial tactile feedback that some users might find satisfying. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura's shorter distance could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, resulting in a more responsive experience during fast-paced gameplay. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will likely depend on whether you prefer the more pronounced feel of the Dustproof Blue or the swift activation of the Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Huano Sakura (V2) comes in at $4.50.
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
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is notable for its distinct auditory feedback, providing a pronounced click that can be satisfying for typists who enjoy an audible cue with each keystroke. This sound signature, however, can vary depending on the keyboard used and the type of keycaps attached. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch is recognized for its medium acoustics, generating a much quieter sound profile compared to the Dustproof Blue. The Sakura’s more subdued noise makes it suitable for environments where noise could be an issue, making it a more discreet option for extended typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Blue offers a tactile feedback that helps typists know when they've actuated a key, with a heavier resistance that some may find conducive to precise keystrokes. This switch can be polarizing; while some users appreciate the definitive actuation point, others might feel fatigued during longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is designed with a feather-light touch, making it ideal for long hours of use without tiring the fingers. The smooth action of the linear switch demands less effort and allows for rapid key presses, making it preferable for users who prioritize speed over tactile feedback.
In summary, if you're seeking a more auditory typing experience with definitive feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch might be your preference, while the Huano Sakura linear switch offers an exceptionally light touch and quiet operation, appealing to those who might type for extended periods. Each switch delivers unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and environments, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your personal needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that's accompanied by an audible click, the Dustproof Blue might be your ideal match, especially if you prefer a firmer key resistance at 65 grams for that satisfying bottom-out feel. This switch is better suited for users who appreciate a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience, where each keystroke is distinct and pronounced, making it an excellent option for those who type with confidence or enjoy a rhythmic typing experience. However, if you seek lighter key presses for longer typing sessions, the Huano Sakura linear switch, with its 45 grams of bottom-out force, offers a smooth and quiet experience, allowing for rapid keystrokes without finger fatigue. This makes the Sakura an excellent choice for extensive work or gaming where speed is crucial, and you prefer a more subtle auditory profile and a fluid feel. Therefore, assess your typing style and preferences carefully, as each switch caters beautifully to different typing experiences.
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