Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the TTC Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Dustproof Blue switch is best known for its clicking sound, providing a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is recognized for its smooth and quiet operation, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. The Dustproof Blue switch falls under the category of providing a clicky typing experience, while the Silent Red switch is categorized as offering a buttery, mild, muted, and polished typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and environments. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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 TTC Silent Red switches exhibit similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing plays a significant role in enhancing the overall typing experience for both switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Dustproof Blue and Silent Red switches offer contrasting qualities. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the different bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing may contribute to a deeper sound, while the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound that complements its overall design.
In summary, the choice of housing materials for the Outemu Dustproof Blue and TTC Silent Red switches plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While the polycarbonate top housings create a sharp, high-pitched sound, the nylon bottom housings deliver deeper and fuller tones. The combination of these materials in each switch results in a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Dustproof Blue or a fuller sound with the Silent Red, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium-heavy range. The Dustproof Blue has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Red's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue requires 65 grams while the Silent Red requires 63.5 grams, making the Dustproof Blue slightly heavier in this aspect. The difference in weight between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Dustproof Blue offering a slightly stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force of the Silent Red for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Dustproof Blue for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches being compared. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches provide a tactile feel when pressed, but the Dustproof Blue will require a slightly deeper press compared to the Silent Red. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Red, while those who prefer a more traditional and deeper press may opt for the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and key responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 doesn't have a specific reputation, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its muted sound profile, designed to minimize noise and provide a quieter typing experience. This makes the Silent Red switch ideal for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared spaces. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard they're installed in and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch doesn't have a defined characteristic for feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its buttery, mild, and polished feel. This means that Silent Reds offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing sensation that most users find approachable. The polished finish of the Silent Red switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and TTC Silent Red switches differ in terms of sound and feel, they both offer unique advantages depending on your preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and gentle feel, the Silent Red switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you're looking for a clicky switch without specific sound or feel details, the Dustproof Blue may still provide a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch would be your best bet. It's great for those who enjoy the audible feedback that clicky switches offer. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a similar bottom out force, the TTC Silent Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. Perfect for office or shared living spaces, the Silent Reds provide a muted sound profile and a buttery feel for a comfortable and seamless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for noise level and typing feel.
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