Outemu Dustproof Green vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the HMX Sunset Gleam 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 HMX Sunset Gleam offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Dustproof Green is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a more engaging and pronounced keystroke. This switch can enhance the typing experience with its unique sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory cues while typing. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, or Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch that provides a smooth keystroke without the abrupt tactile bump. Its design emphasizes a soft top-out and satisfying clack, along with exceptional factory lubrication, resulting in a seamless typing experience favored by gamers and users who prioritize speed and fluidity over sound. With their differing characteristics, each switch caters to unique user needs; the Dustproof Green appeals to auditory typists, while the Sunset Gleam suits those who prefer smooth, uninterrupted key presses. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Green and the HMX Sunset Gleam both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar acoustic benefits. Polycarbonate's unique properties contribute to a sharper, more defined sound profile, characterized by a higher pitch and clarity. This shared housing material allows for a resonant sound that appeals to users seeking an enhanced auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for setups with RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination to pass through the housing, creating a visually striking effect. Therefore, users of both switches can enjoy a comparable brightness and clarity in their key lighting, regardless of the brand.
In contrast, the bottom housing for both switches is made from nylon, further contributing to a unified acoustic profile across their respective designs. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, which leads to a deeper and more rounded sound when typing. This characteristic enhances the overall feel of the switch by providing a satisfying bottom-out experience and a sense of fullness in the tactile feedback. Since both switches share the same bottom housing material, users will find that they experience a similar richness in sound and tactile feedback when pressing down the keys.
When considering the combined effects of both housing materials, it becomes evident that while the Dustproof Green and Sunset Gleam differ in branding, their respective sonic qualities will exhibit harmonious similarities. The polycarbonate top housing ensures a crisp sound upon release, while the nylon bottom housing fosters a rewarding depth during key presses. As a result, users of either switch can expect an overall cohesive typing experience, complemented by clear high frequencies and richer lows, delivering both auditory pleasure and tactile satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, significant differences in both actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Outemu Dustproof Green requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is much lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, catering to those who desire a more effortless typing experience for extended sessions. The stark contrast in forces means that typists and gamers looking for lighter switches will find the Sunset Gleam more suitable, while those who enjoy a firmer push may prefer the heft of the Dustproof Green. Thus, choosing between these switches largely depends on personal preference regarding the desired typing sensation and how it fits with long-term use.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Dustproof Green the longer option, providing a deeper key press that some users may appreciate for a more tactile and engaging experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's 3.5 mm travel distance can offer quicker responsiveness, which is often favored by gamers seeking swift key presses. While both switches have their unique advantages, those who prefer a more profound typing experience may gravitate towards the Dustproof Green, while users who prioritize speed and rapid response might prefer the Sunset Gleam. Ultimately, the choice between the two will largely depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and actuation feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have a specified sound profile, making it difficult to assess its acoustic characteristics. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is acclaimed for its subtle yet satisfying clack generated during typing, thanks to a well-balanced design that combines quality materials and factory lube. The overall sound produced by the Sunset Gleam provides a pleasant auditory experience that is often sought after in tactile switches, whereas the Dustproof Green's unknown sound profile leaves its auditory feedback to speculation, and ultimately, the choice of keyboard and keycaps will significantly influence the final sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch lacks specific descriptors, leaving potential users without clarity on its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam is noted for its smooth linear feel, which is enhanced by the excellent factory lubrication that ensures a seamless keystroke from top to bottom. This results in a satisfying typing experience that is reminiscent of premium linear switches, allowing users to enjoy an uninterrupted flow during extensive typing sessions. The absence of detailed information about the feel of the Dustproof Green switch makes it challenging to compare directly, indicating that users may need to test it to understand its characteristics fully.
In summary, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not provide specific insights into its sound and feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch stands out for its satisfying clacky sound and smooth linear action, bolstered by high-quality materials and lubrication. For newcomers, the Sunset Gleam offers a more defined experience in terms of auditory and tactile feedback, whereas the Dustproof Green will require individual exploration to gauge its qualities. If you opt for either switch, the choice of keyboard and keycap materials will significantly impact your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and use case scenarios. If you favor a heavier tactile experience and enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch, then the Dustproof Green, with its 80 grams bottom-out force, might be the right fit for you, particularly for typing tasks that benefit from that distinct tactile and sound feedback. This makes it ideal for writers or gamers who require precise keystrokes and appreciate a definitive actuation feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its light 48 grams bottom-out force, would be more suitable. Its linear feel provides a fluid keypress that's great for fast-paced gaming or prolonged typing sessions where comfort is key. The choice ultimately hinges on whether you want a more tactile, audible experience or a smooth, quiet operation, so consider your typical usage patterns when making your decision.
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