Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Weightlessness stand out as two popular options for users seeking a tactile experience. While both switches offer a tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is primarily celebrated for its durability and resistance to dust, making it an excellent choice for those who desire a long-lasting keyboard that can withstand the rigors of daily use. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switches provide a subtle to moderate tactile feel, enhancing the typing experience with a balanced sound profile that caters to both gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize longevity and dust resistance or a refined tactile sensation with acoustic harmony. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing needs.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch to the Gateron Weightlessness switch, a significant contrast can be observed in their top housing materials. The Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top that contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, resulting in a crisp auditory experience. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances the switch’s sound clarity, especially beneficial for those who enjoy an RGB lighting setup, as the clear housing allows for vibrant lighting effects. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to the clear and high-pitched tones of polycarbonate. Thus, while both switches serve their purposes well, they cater to different auditory preferences through their distinctive top housing materials.
On the other hand, the bottom housing for both the Dustproof Brown and the Weightlessness switches is made from nylon, leading to a convergence in sound profile characteristics at this level. As a classic material for switch housings, nylon's ability to absorb sound applies equally to both switches, providing a deeper and more rounded tonal feel when keys bottom out. The nylon bottom housing enhances the overall tactile experience as it contributes to the subdued sound profile, making each switch's actuation feel smoother and more full-bodied. Therefore, even though the Dustproof Brown has a polycarbonate top that adds to its character, both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, meaning users will experience a similar depth in sound and feel when engaging with the switches.
In summary, the differences in housing materials between the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top and the Weightlessness's nylon top distinctly shape the keys' sound profiles. While the Dustproof Brown offers a sharper sound due to its stiffer polycarbonate, the Weightlessness provides a more muted auditory experience with its nylon top. However, the similarity in both switches’ nylon bottom housings ensures a cohesive tactile sensation, allowing users to appreciate the rich, rounded sound during bottom-out moments regardless of their choice in top housing. Therefore, users can choose based on their preference for sound and aesthetics, as both switches share some underlying similarities that contribute to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Brown has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams, while the Weightlessness requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, making it the heavier of the two options. In terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown has a measurable bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a definitive requirement for bottoming out, whereas the Weightlessness lacks a specified bottom out force. This absence suggests that the actuation does not reach a traditional bottom out point, which could result in a different tactile experience. Consequently, for users who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Dustproof Brown may be more suitable, while those seeking a firmer feel with heavier actuation should consider the Gateron Weightlessness. Overall, these differences will significantly influence user experience based on personal preferences for typing feel and fatigue during longer usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches, it's clear that they cater to different preferences among users. The Dustproof Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional depth that many typists find satisfying for its hearty feedback. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times. Consequently, those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel in their keystrokes might gravitate towards the Outemu Dustproof Brown. Conversely, users who favor a snappier and more responsive typing experience could opt for the Gateron Weightlessness. Overall, the Dustproof Brown is the longer switch, while the Weightlessness is the shorter option, each designed to meet specific user needs in the realm of typing and gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound profile mentioned, making it hard to characterize its acoustic qualities. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch is recognized for its balanced sound profile, which complements its tactile characteristics and ranges from subtle to moderate in volume. This suggests that while the Weightlessness provides a more defined auditory experience, the Dustproof Brown's sound may largely depend on factors like the keyboard build and keycap material, leaving an aural impression that could vary widely among different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks specific details, leaving its tactile feedback largely undefined. The Gateron Weightlessness, however, is appreciated for its subtle to moderate tactile response, providing a satisfying sensation without overwhelming the user. This creates a tactile experience that strikes a balance between feedback and comfort, enhancing typing productivity. If the Dustproof Brown offers a similar tactile quality, users may experience comparable sensations, though specifics are unavailable.
In summary, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks defined qualities in both sound and feel, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch stands out with its balanced sound profile and moderate tactile feedback. If seeking a switch with a known tactile experience, the Weightlessness is a solid choice for those who appreciate a subtle yet satisfying response. If the Dustproof Brown aligns in feel, users may find familiarity in their typing experience, but without concrete details, it remains a mystery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel and appreciate tactile feedback with substantial actuation force—ideal for typists who want a pronounced response while typing—you may find the Dustproof Brown to be the better choice. Its durability and dustproof feature add to its value, especially in environments where debris may be a concern. Conversely, if you favor a lighter touch with a more subtle tactile response, the Gateron Weightlessness might be more up your alley. This switch's smooth actuation and balanced sound profile cater to those who want a less intrusive experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or a quiet work environment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific typing preferences, whether that leans towards a stronger tactile sensation or a more gentle and seamless keypress experience.
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