Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, and the KTT Pine, a linear switch, stand out as popular options for different reasons. The Dustproof Brown is praised for its durability, thanks to its dustproof design which helps to prevent dust and debris from hindering its performance. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is celebrated for its smooth and buttery typing experience, with a medium-heavy actuation that provides a satisfying feel with every keystroke. While the Dustproof Brown offers a tactile feedback for precision in typing, the KTT Pine delivers a smooth linear action for a seamless 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and KTT Pine switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of the material. This results in a more resonant sound, especially ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Dustproof Brown differs in its nylon bottom housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile of the top housing, creating consistency throughout the switch's sound profile.
While both switches showcase the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound associated with the top housing. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In understanding the importance of top and bottom housing materials in switch design, it is evident that the qualities of each material contribute differently to the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced sound profile, where the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the Dustproof Brown's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile or the Pine's consistent sharp sound profile with polycarbonate throughout, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the choice of housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force for both switches is the same at 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown requires a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Pine switch would be the better option with its lower bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. With both switches having an equal travel distance, users can expect consistent results in terms of keypress feel and key travel. The similarities in travel distance make these switches interchangeable in terms of typing comfort and overall user experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
The Outemu Dustproof Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is known for a quiet operation that does not generate much noise. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch has been described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This difference in sound characteristics means that the Dustproof Brown may be better suited for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Pine switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more resonant and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, making it difficult to directly compare to the KTT Pine linear switch. The Pine switch, on the other hand, is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. This means that the Pine switch may provide a more satisfying and luxurious typing sensation compared to the Dustproof Brown, which lacks detailed information on its tactile feel.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch may be a better choice for users who prioritize a quiet typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a unique combination of a buttery and creamy feel with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches have their own qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on whether the user values sound, feel, or a combination of both in their mechanical keyboard switch choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the Dustproof Brown with 65 grams bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Pine with 58 grams bottom out force might be more suitable. Additionally, think about the sound and feel you desire in a switch. If you prefer a deeper, bassy sound and a creamy, buttery feel, the Pine switch is the way to go. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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