Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various switches to enhance their typing experience, and two popular options from Outemu are the Dustproof Brown and the Tom switches, both of which are tactile. The Outemu Dustproof Brown is appreciated for its reliable tactile feedback that allows users to feel a subtle bump when the actuation point is reached, promoting an engaging typing experience without being overly noisy. In contrast, the Outemu Tom switch, while also tactile, features a slightly different feel and actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a distinct yet smooth keystroke. Choosing the Dustproof Brown might be ideal for users who prioritize a quieter workspace, whereas the Tom switch could cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. Both options offer their unique advantages, making it important to understand their specific characteristics to select the right switch for your typing style. 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
55g
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
3.30 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
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Tom switches share a notable similarity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, which is a hallmark of polycarbonate’s stiff plastic properties. The translucency of the polycarbonate top also makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through more effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of keyboards equipped with these switches. With both switch variations featuring polycarbonate in their top configurations, users can reasonably expect a similar auditory experience when typing, as the sound clarity and resonance will be alike due to the uniform material.
In contrast to their shared top housing, the differences in bottom housing are non-existent, as both the Dustproof Brown and the Tom switches employ nylon. This choice influences the overall sound profile in a different manner, contributing to a deeper and fuller tonal quality when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound signature than its polycarbonate counterpart. Consequently, while the top housing provides a sharp and crisp release sound, the nylon bottom housing counterbalances it with a smoother and more solid base, enhancing the overall typing experience. This dual-material design, although identical in the case of both switches, illustrates how the distinct effects of each housing contribute harmoniously to the final auditory characteristics of the switches.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Tom ensures that users will achieve a well-rounded typing experience. The polycarbonate top allows for crisp sound feedback during key release, while the nylon bottom provides a fuller sound that enriches the bottom-out experience. Sampled together, the overall sound quality will deliver a consistent performance for users, blending the sharper high notes from the polycarbonate with the deeper, absorbing qualities of nylon. Thus, whether one opts for the Dustproof Brown or the Tom, they can expect eerily similar auditory feedback and tactile responses, resulting in a satisfying keyboard experience that balances clarity with depth.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Dustproof Brown requires an actuation force of 45 grams, which offers a moderately light feel, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions and extended gaming, as it allows for less finger fatigue. In contrast, the Tom has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, giving it a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. However, the bottom out force for the Tom switch remains unknown, making it difficult to draw conclusions about its full keystroke experience compared to the Dustproof Brown’s bottom out force of 65 grams. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch for comfort during extended use might lean towards the Dustproof Brown, while those preferring a firmer push would opt for the Tom, provided they appreciate the heavier actuation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Dustproof Brown features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tom has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference can significantly affect the typing experience. The Dustproof Brown, with its more traditional travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile feel when pressing keys, providing a sense of assertiveness with each keystroke. Conversely, the Tom’s 3.3 mm travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, often favored by gamers who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as those who enjoy deeper engagement may lean towards the Dustproof Brown, while those who prefer a more responsive and rapid key action might find the Tom to be more advantageous.
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 Tom.
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 generally quieter compared to other switch types, producing a muffled sound that can be suitable for office environments or shared spaces. The Outemu Tom switch, while not having specified sound characteristics, is typically designed to emphasize a more pronounced tactile feedback, which might contribute to a slightly louder sound profile, particularly if the actuation point produces a sharper acoustic response. Nevertheless, the overall sound experience will depend heavily on the keyboard construction, keycap material, and how the switches interact with the board.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is beloved for its tactile feedback that strikes a balance between soft and firm, making it ideal for typing while still providing a noticeable bump at the actuation point. Conversely, the Outemu Tom switch, while also delivering tactile feedback, may differ in the degree of resistance or the sharpness of the bump at the actuation point, potentially offering a different experience for typists and gamers alike. However, without specified details, it’s difficult to pinpoint how it contrasts with the Dustproof Brown.
Taken together, while both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Tom switches may serve distinct preferences among users, they both offer tactile feedback suited for a variety of tasks. The Dustproof Brown leans toward a quieter and balanced typing experience, whereas the Tom might present a more dynamic tactile response that could appeal to different users. Ultimately, individuals looking for tactile switches can expect a satisfactory experience from either, although trying them alongside specific keyboard setups and contexts will lead to the best personalization for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you find yourself gravitating towards a medium-heavy switch that offers a tactile feedback, the Dustproof Brown could be a great choice for you. Its 65-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying resistance, making it an excellent option for both typing and gaming, especially if you enjoy feeling that tactile bump during your key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter feel or are looking for a smoother typing experience without the tactile feedback, the Outemu Tom might be the way to go. While the Tom's specifications are somewhat limited, choosing based on personal preference for sound and feel can guide you. Therefore, consider how you type and which switch characteristics appeal to you the most—opt for the Dustproof Brown for a more tactile and responsive typing experience, or forgo that tactile feedback with the Tom for a potentially softer touch.
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