Outemu Dustproof Green vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Green and SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Green is a clicky switch, while the RedBlue is a linear switch. The Dustproof Green is best known for its tactile feedback and audible clicks, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are praised for their smooth, consistent keystrokes and lower pitch sound profile, making them a great choice for users 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Green and the SP-Star RedBlue, we can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches due to its stiffness and clear, resonant qualities. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Dustproof Green utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and clear sound profile consistent with its top housing material.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the contrast in their bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, creating a more muted and rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound, providing a crisper and more resonant typing feel. This difference in bottom housing materials showcases how the type of plastic used can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. When considering which switch to use, understanding how the combination of top and bottom housing materials affects typing performance is essential.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Green and the SP-Star RedBlue both feature polycarbonate top housing, their differentiation in bottom housing materials leads to distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more muted typing feel, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances sharpness and clarity, resulting in a crisper typing experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles and typing feel is crucial in selecting the right switch for your preferences. Whether it's the softer, sound-absorbing qualities of nylon or the stiffer, resonant characteristics of polycarbonate, each material brings its unique attributes to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Green is also heavier at 80 grams, while the RedBlue has a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Dustproof Green will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required for both actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch will offer a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where key presses need to be swift and responsive. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience on both switches. However, it is important to note that the type of feedback and actuation force may vary between the two switches, as the Dustproof Green is a clicky switch while the RedBlue is a linear switch. Overall, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same amount of key travel for users to enjoy.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Outemu Dustproof Green 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 Green clicky switch is known for producing a distinct and satisfying clicky sound that is loud and crisp. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is more mellow and bass-heavy. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Dustproof Green being more clicky and the RedBlue being more neutral and thocky, depending on the setup of the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch doesn't have specific descriptors provided, whereas the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the RedBlue switch offers a gentle and smooth keypress, thanks to its polished finish and reduced friction. The Dustproof Green switch's typing feel may vary depending on individual preferences and typing style.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Green switch is known for its loud and satisfying clicky sound, while the RedBlue switch provides a more mellow and bass-heavy low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Dustproof Green switch's feel may vary. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choosing between them will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who enjoys a heavier typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound, then the Outemu Dustproof Green switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and smooth key travel, then the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Consider trying out both switches if possible to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
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