Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Gold. The Dustproof Brown switch is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch is a clicky switch, known for its distinct clicking sound with each key press. While the Dustproof Brown switch is preferred for its tactile feedback, the Gold switch stands out for its audible click. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Gold both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, being translucent, polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the nylon bottom housings of the two switches offer a different typing experience. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Despite the differences in housing materials, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Gold switches both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a similar sharp and clear sound, it is the nylon bottom housing that sets them apart. The Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, while the Gold's nylon bottom housing produces a rounder sound overall. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can result in distinct typing experiences, even within the same brand of switches.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Gold ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer a crisp and resonant sound thanks to their polycarbonate top housing, but the nylon bottom housing introduces unique characteristics to each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Dustproof Brown or a fuller sound with the Gold, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the selection between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that they both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dustproof Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Gold has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Gold offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. Both switches share the same actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of initial keystroke sensitivity. Overall, weight plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with some preferring a heavier touch for increased feedback and others opting for a lighter touch for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback with their identical travel distances. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, both the Dustproof Brown and Gold switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a standard travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Dustproof Brown and Gold.
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 Brown tactile switch is known for its smooth and stable typing experience without the loud clicky sound that some users find distracting. The Gold clicky switch, on the other hand, provides a satisfying click sound with each keypress, giving a more audible and tactile feedback. When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Brown is quieter, while the Gold switch is louder and more pronounced.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Brown switch offers a subtle tactile bump during actuation, providing a gentle feedback to the typist's fingers. It is known for its comfortable typing experience, suitable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gold clicky switch offers a more pronounced tactile and audible feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is recommended for users who prefer a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more audible and tactile typing feel. Both switches will provide a different typing experience, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should choose the Dustproof Brown if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 65 grams, providing a more tactile typing experience. This switch is a great option for those who want a balance between feedback and ease of typing. On the other hand, the Gold switch with its lighter 60 gram bottom out force is a better choice for those who enjoy a clicky sound with each key press, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for feedback, sound, and overall typing feel.
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