Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue. The Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump when pressed, while the Milk Blue is a clicky switch, offering audible feedback with each key press. The Dustproof Brown is known for its reliability and durability thanks to its dustproof design, making it ideal for those who want a long-lasting switch. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is favored for its clicky sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more audible 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switch housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard setup. With both switches using the same material for the top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and performance related to this component.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Milk Blue also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by some users for a more muted typing experience. Despite the similar bottom housing material, the overall sound and feel of each switch can still vary due to the weight and design of the switches themselves.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Milk Blue switches means that each component contributes differently to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction can result in subtle differences in sound and feedback between the two switches, making them suitable for users with varying preferences for sound profiles and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Dustproof Brown and the Milk Blue will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics when customizing a keyboard setup.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Dustproof Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Dustproof Brown requires a heavier force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. This suggests that the Dustproof Brown offers a more balanced typing experience, providing a medium-heavy feel overall. On the other hand, the Milk Blue may offer a lighter typing experience due to its unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This consistency in travel distance allows for a familiar typing experience across both switches. Additionally, the identical travel distance of 4 mm ensures that users will not notice a difference in key feel or actuation depth between the two switches. Ultimately, whether selecting the Dustproof Brown or the Milk Blue, users can expect a consistent and reliable typing experience with a 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 Milk Blue.
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 Brown tactile switch is known for having a quiet and subtle typing experience, making it suitable for office environments or late-night typing sessions where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is recognized for its crisp and audible click with each keystroke, providing a satisfying typing feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
As for feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is praised for its smooth and tactile bump that provides a comfortable typing experience, allowing users to feel the actuation point clearly without much resistance. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its pronounced tactile bump and audible click, giving typists a tactile and auditory confirmation of their keystrokes. Depending on personal preference, users may find either switch to be more suitable for their typing style.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Milk Blue switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Brown provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience with a smooth tactile bump, while the Milk Blue delivers a crisp clicky sound and pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for noise levels and typing feel. If a user is looking for a switch with a quiet typing experience and smooth tactile feedback, the Dustproof Brown may be the better option. On the other hand, if a user enjoys a clicky sound and pronounced tactile bump, the Milk Blue would be a preferred choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should choose the Dustproof Brown if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quiet typing experience. The Dustproof Brown is also a good choice if you prioritize durability due to its dustproof design. On the other hand, opt for the Milk Blue if you enjoy a clicky typing sound and a light actuation force. The Milk Blue switch is ideal for those who want a more tactile and audible typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force required for typing.
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