Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey offer two distinct typing experiences for users. The Dustproof Brown is best known for its durable build quality, allowing it to resist dust and other particles that can often cause key switches to degrade over time. On the other hand, the Silent Grey is renowned for its quiet operation and highly tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for those who want a satisfying typing experience without the loud clicky sound commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. While the Dustproof Brown offers durability, the Silent Grey provides a quiet and tactile 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
While both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Silent Grey feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Grey also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with the same deeper and fuller sound profile.
The polycarbonate top housing of both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Silent Grey contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for the top housing of switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. This consistency in top housing material ensures that users can expect a comparable auditory experience regardless of whether they choose the Dustproof Brown or Silent Grey switches.
When it comes to the tactile experience of pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material come into play. The nylon bottom housings of both the Dustproof Brown and Silent Grey impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall tactile feedback and sound profile of the switches. Users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel with both the Dustproof Brown and Silent Grey switches due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we can see that the Dustproof Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Grey's 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy in that aspect. The Dustproof Brown may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter touch when typing, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar tactile feel and feedback. The travel distance of 4 mm indicates that both switches provide a moderate amount of key travel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a tactile typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Dustproof Brown or the Outemu Silent Grey, you can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a similar travel distance.
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 Silent Grey.
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
Sound-wise, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is known for being notoriously quiet, making it a great option for those who prefer a more stealthy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch lives up to its name by offering a quiet typing experience as well. However, the Silent Grey switch also provides a highly tactile feel with a pronounced bump, giving users a satisfying typing experience without the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, both switches offer a hushed typing experience, with the Silent Grey switch adding the extra benefit of a pronounced tactile bump.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch provides a responsive typing experience with a tactile bump that allows for accurate key presses. The Silent Grey tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a similar tactile experience but with the added benefit of reduced noise. Both switches are relatively light to press, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience for users.
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet and tactile typing experience, both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Outemu Silent Grey switches are great options to consider. The Dustproof Brown switch offers a quiet typing experience with a tactile bump, while the Silent Grey switch provides the same tactile feedback with the added benefit of reduced noise. Depending on your preference for noise level and tactile feedback, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a tactile typing experience without the loud noise, the Silent Grey switch would be a better choice. The Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, making it perfect for those looking for a satisfying and silent switch. On the other hand, if noise is not a concern and you prefer a different feel, the Dustproof Brown switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing setup.
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