Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Everglide Tourmaline Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is a linear switch that provides a smooth, consistent typing experience without any tactile bump or audible click. The Dustproof Blue may be preferred by those who enjoy the satisfying click sound and feedback, while the Tourmaline Blue could be the choice for users seeking a quieter, more fluid 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
The main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue lies in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in a noticeable difference in the overall typing experience and sound output of the two switches.
In terms of their top housing materials, both the Dustproof Blue and the Tourmaline Blue use polycarbonate. This choice enhances the sound profile by creating a clear and resonant tone, particularly beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more defined sound profile, emphasizing the tactile feedback and key press experience. Despite sharing the same top housing material, each switch may still offer a unique typing feel and sound due to the differences in their bottom housing materials.
By having different top and bottom housing materials, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue are able to combine the qualities of both nylon and polycarbonate in their overall sound profile. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience with a balance of deep, full tones from nylon and sharp, crisp tones from polycarbonate, creating a unique and customizable typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Blue is lighter in both aspects. The Dustproof Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Tourmaline Blue has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, also categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. While both switches fall within the same weight range, the Dustproof Blue requires slightly lighter force for actuation and bottoming out. This difference may result in a more tactile typing experience with the Dustproof Blue, while the Tourmaline Blue offers a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide a similar typing experience. It is worth noting that some users may prefer the clicky feedback of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, while others may prefer the smoother typing experience of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel rather than travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for providing a standard clicky sound profile, giving users a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, creating a more immersive typing experience. While the Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional clicky sound, the Tourmaline Blue provides a unique and enjoyable sound experience for users looking for a different typing sensation.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a traditional typing experience with its tactile feedback and clicky feel. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the switch is not provided in the information given. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is described as providing a buttery, easy-to-press, and mild typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal force required, resulting in a comfortable and responsive typing feel. The Tourmaline Blue switches strike a balance between providing a satisfying typing experience while being accessible to a wide range of users.
Considering all the available information, users can expect a more traditional clicky sound and feel from the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, while the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch offers a unique deep and thocky sound with a buttery and easy-to-press typing feel. Depending on personal preference, users may choose the Dustproof Blue for a more standard clicky experience or the Tourmaline Blue for a more immersive and smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for users looking for different sound and feel profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a deep and thocky sound profile that provides a bouncy and enjoyable typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and are seeking a switch that offers a smooth, easy-to-press, and mild typing experience, the Dustproof Blue could be the right fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Consider trying out both switches to see which one best suits your needs.
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