Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and KTT Strawberry offer distinct experiences for users. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, known for its crisp tactile feedback and audible click sound. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry is a linear switch, favored for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Dustproof Blue provides a satisfying click with each key press, the Strawberry offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience. These differences in sound and feel cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Strawberry, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both options. However, the Dustproof Blue stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the rounder sound created by the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of sound and feel, the choice of housing material greatly influences the overall typing experience of a switch. With the Dustproof Blue, the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when bottoming out a key. On the other hand, the relatively stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Strawberry contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. When pressing down on these switches, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing, while the top housing will have more of an influence on the sound emitted when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can affect both the sound and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
While both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the KTT Strawberry feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials lead to distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique typing feel compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback, with the type of housing material playing a significant role in determining the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see that the Dustproof Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Strawberry's lighter 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue requires 65 grams, which is heavier than the Strawberry's 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter key press for longer typing sessions or gaming, the KTT Strawberry may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. The 4 mm travel distance offers a satisfying tactile feedback and a smooth keystroke experience for both switches. Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue and KTT Strawberry switches may have different characteristics, their travel distances are the same, providing consistent typing experiences for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is often considered to be on the louder side, providing a satisfying clicky sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that can be appealing to those seeking a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that while the switch itself plays a role in sound, the overall sound profile can also be influenced by the keyboard type and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have specific descriptors provided. On the contrary, the KTT Strawberry switch is praised for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. These characteristics indicate that the Strawberry switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction, resulting in a seamless and refined keystroke sensation. Whether you prefer a more tactile feel with the Dustproof Blue or a smoother experience with the Strawberry, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preference.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and KTT Strawberry switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Blue is known for its loud clicky sound with no specific feel descriptors provided, the Strawberry switch stands out for its low-pitched sound and buttery-smooth typing feel. Whether you gravitate towards the audible satisfaction of the Dustproof Blue or the smooth keystrokes of the Strawberry, both switches have their unique appeal and can enhance your typing experience depending on your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it's important to think about your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky switch for a tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a linear switch for a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry switch might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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