Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Green, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch. The Dustproof Green switch is best known for its satisfying loud click sound upon actuation, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch is renowned for its tactile bump that provides a subtle tactile feedback without the audible click, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter 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
65g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Outemu Tom, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tom also features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a similar sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
The use of different bottom housing materials in the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Outemu Tom allows for a contrast in sound profiles depending on where the switch is pressed. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt more when pressing down on the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of both switches, the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that despite both switches having similar top housing materials, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound experience of each switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Outemu Tom contribute to unique sound profiles when typing. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing in each switch adds depth and fullness to the overall sound experience. The Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing elicits a more impactful sound, while the Tom's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder and duller sound. These variations in housing materials demonstrate how subtle differences can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Green is the heavier option. The Dustproof Green has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a firm and substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Tom tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. The bottom out force of the Tom is unknown, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of heaviness to the Dustproof Green. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important factor to consider based on individual preferences for typing or gaming purposes. If you prefer a lighter feel, the Outemu Tom might be the better choice, while those who enjoy a heavier push may opt for the Dustproof Green for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Dustproof Green offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper press compared to the shallower press of the Tom switch. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Dustproof Green. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences in key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in travel distance and key press depth.
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 Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click with each keystroke, similar to the well-known Cherry MX Blue switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch provides a quieter typing experience with a gentle bump feedback that is more subtle compared to the clicky switch. Depending on personal preference, the Dustproof Green switch may be preferred by those who enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch, while the Tom switch may be favored by users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch offers a tactile bump along with the audible click, providing a tactile and satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile bump without the accompanying click, giving a smoother keystroke that is still tactile in nature. The Dustproof Green switch may suit users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the Tom switch may be preferred by those who prefer a smoother tactile experience without the loud click.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and Outemu Tom tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Green switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience with each click, while the Tom switch offers a quieter and smoother tactile feel without the audible feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches offering a quality typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a heavy bottom-out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for its responsiveness, then the Dustproof Green may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a switch with no specified bottom-out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for its smoothness, then the Tom tactile switch may be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel of each switch as well, as they may also play a role in your decision-making process. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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