Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Akko Rosewood stand out as two distinct options with unique characteristics. The Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, offering a noticeable bump at the actuation point that can enhance typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback without being too loud. This makes it ideal for typists who appreciate the tactile sensation but prefer a quieter sound profile. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood is a linear switch known for delivering a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, resulting in an effortless typing experience. What sets the Rosewood apart is its ability to produce a deep, satisfying thocky sound straight out of the box, thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, making it an excellent choice for those who value acoustics as much as performance. Each switch caters to different preferences and needs, highlighting the importance of personal taste in switch selection. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Akko Rosewood, the differences between their top housings are notable. The Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This rigidity allows for clear resonance, particularly beneficial when RGB lighting is utilized, as the translucency of the polycarbonate permits light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood utilizes a nylon top housing, a traditional choice in switch engineering. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a rounder auditory output. Thus, while both switches are designed to deliver unique sound experiences, the Dustproof Brown provides a more vibrant high end, whereas the Rosewood offers a warm, subdued sound landscape.

The bottom housings of both switches are identical in material, with nylon being the chosen component for each. This similarity means that when typing on either switch, the deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to the nylon will prevail, regardless of the top housing’s influence. Since nylon absorbs sound and dampens vibrations, users can expect a consistent auditory experience from the lower part of both switches. This shared material contributes to a comparable bottom-out sound and feel, ensuring that both switches maintain a certain standard in terms of typing experience. Consequently, while the top housings differ in acoustic properties, the nylon bottom housing interfaces assure a consistent depth of sound across both switch types.

Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housings in the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Akko Rosewood results in a varied yet complementary typing experience. The polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Brown enhances clarity and brightness, affecting the sound produced when the key is released, while the nylon bottom delivers a robust and resonant feel upon key presses. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood’s nylon top softens the sound, creating a rounded impact when typing, but also relies on the nylon bottom for a consistent tactile experience. In summary, understanding how the interplay between different materials in each switch contributes to the overall sound and feel is essential for enthusiasts aiming to optimize their mechanical keyboard experience.

Weight

The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch differ significantly in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Dustproof Brown features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Rosewood is lighter, with an actuation force of only 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users of the Rosewood may find it easier to type for extended periods or during long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to register keystrokes. Meanwhile, the heavier Dustproof Brown might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, providing a greater sense of resistance when typing. Overall, the Dustproof Brown is the heavier option, while the Rosewood is the lighter choice.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they will provide a similar keypress experience when it comes to the depth of the key travel. Because both switches have identical travel distances, users can expect comparable feedback and responsiveness when pressing the keys. This similarity in distance allows for a unified typing experience across both switches, accommodating users who prioritize tactile feedback or smooth linear action. Ultimately, whether one opts for the Dustproof Brown or the Rosewood, the resulting travel will feel the same at 4 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have a notable characteristic, making it somewhat of an unknown in this aspect. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch produces a deep, satisfying thocky sound right out of the box, thanks to its thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. This clear distinction indicates that if you're seeking a more pronounced auditory experience, the Rosewood is the superior choice.

Regarding feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown remain unspecified, leading to uncertainty about its tactile feedback and actuation sensation. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood's linear profile offers a smooth and uninterrupted keypress experience, which many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. This suggests that for those prioritizing a consistent feel in their keystrokes, the Rosewood is the preferable option.

In conclusion, while the Akko Rosewood linear switch excels in delivering both a satisfying sound and a smooth feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks definable qualities in these areas, making it harder to compare directly. Choosing between them will largely depend on personal preferences—if you favor an appealing acoustic feedback and a fluid typing experience, the Rosewood is the way to go. However, if you're indifferent to sound and tactile feedback, the Dustproof Brown could still offer a satisfactory performance.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch that offers tactile feedback without being too noisy, the Dustproof Brown can be a great option, especially for typing where you want a bit of resistance as you press down, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while working or gaming. However, if you are looking for a lighter switch that provides a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, the Rosewood switch would be your best bet. The satisfying “thock” sound it produces not only enhances your typing experience but is also perfect for anyone who enjoys a more auditory feedback characteristic in their keystrokes. Thus, if sound and fluid motion are important to you, especially for gaming or casual typing sessions, you should lean towards the Rosewood. Ultimately, your choice should align with what feels most comfortable and satisfying for you during both typing and gaming sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more