Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Kailh Plum offer different experiences for users. The Dustproof Green switch is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying auditory response with each key press. On the other hand, the Plum switch is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience with a hefty feel and a subtle tactile bump. While the Dustproof Green switch is more focused on the auditory feedback, the Plum switch prioritizes a balance between tactility and weightiness. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences - whether you prefer the clicky feedback of the Dustproof Green or the unique tactile feel of the Plum. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Plum switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, the top housing material is where the similarities end between the two switches.
Where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Dustproof Green features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. These differences in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
When it comes to typing on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials allows for a varied typing experience between the two switches, with the Dustproof Green providing a sharper and clearer sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, and the Kailh Plum offering a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired sound profile and typing feel preferred by the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Green requires 80 grams of force while the Plum requires 70 grams. This means that the Outemu Dustproof Green is heavier both in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Kailh Plum. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Plum, while those seeking a heavier, more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a traditional travel distance, but the Dustproof Green offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Plum. Gamers may prefer the Dustproof Green for its longer travel distance, as it can provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press. However, those looking for a faster response time may gravitate towards the Plum with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Green comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 being loud and clicky, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Green switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, but it is likely to offer a tactile and responsive typing experience due to being a clicky switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as providing a mild and stepped tactile feedback. This means that the Plum switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, while also offering a two-stage tactile feel that can be comforting to many users.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it's clear that they each offer unique experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Green is loud and clicky, providing a strong tactile feedback, while the Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, one may prefer the satisfying clickiness of the Dustproof Green or the gentle tactility of the Plum. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options that can provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who prefers a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch with its 80-gram bottom out force would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique tactile switch with a medium-heavy 70-gram bottom out force and a subtle tactile bump, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, so take into consideration the characteristics of each switch before making your choice.
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