Outemu Dustproof Green vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Green and the HMX Twilight present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Dustproof Green, classified as a clicky switch, is designed for those who appreciate a tactile feedback and audible click with each keypress, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more interactive and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch is best known for its smooth action and extended 3.85mm travel distance, offering a quieter operation while preserving the clacky characteristics that aficionados appreciate. This makes the Twilight a preferable choice for users who seek a more subdued typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Green Clicky

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Green and the HMX Twilight, a clear distinction emerges in the type of plastic used for the top housing. The Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and the ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic lends itself well to illuminating RGB lighting, making the clear polycarbonate material visually appealing. In contrast, the HMX Twilight utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials play significant roles in the sound experience of each switch, they produce distinctly different acoustic properties based on their physical compositions.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon material. As described, nylon is a classic housing material that contributes to a rounder sound profile, absorbing sound more readily than stiffer plastics. Therefore, the deeper and fuller sound quality experienced during key presses is a commonality between the Dustproof Green and the HMX Twilight. While the Dustproof Green's sound profile might be heightened because of its polycarbonate top, the nylon bottom housing ensures both switches share similar audio qualities when it comes to bottoming out. This shared use of nylon lends a level of coherence in the sound experience across both models, albeit filtered through the differing characteristics of their respective top housing materials.

Ultimately, the contrast between the two switches lies in their top housing materials, which dictate the overall sound experience when typing. The polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Green enforces a crisper and more resonant tone, while the nylon top of the HMX Twilight produces a warmer, softer sound. However, because both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent auditory experience when the keys are pressed down, culminating in a fuller sound upon actuation. This interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials showcases how the qualities of each can combine to create a unique and distinct typing experience, even while sharing aspects of sound profile and resonance through their nylon bases.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces become evident. The Dustproof Green features a relatively heavy actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Twilight switch is markedly lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which may be favored by those seeking comfort during extended typing sessions and lighter key presses. As such, the Dustproof Green is the heavier option, while the Twilight is the lighter one, offering distinct experiences based on user preference. Ultimately, for those who prefer a more strenuous feel while typing, the Dustproof Green may be the ideal choice, whereas users looking for ease and speed may opt for the HMX Twilight.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Dustproof Green provides a more pronounced key press, which some users may find preferable for a more tactile experience. Conversely, the Twilight's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker actuation and faster response times, aligning with modern trends toward shallower switches. Therefore, if a user favors a deeper feel when typing, the Dustproof Green would be the better choice, while those seeking improved responsiveness should opt for the Twilight. Ultimately, the differences in travel distance reflect individual preferences for switch depth and tactile feedback, making each suitable for different types of users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have a specific sound profile mentioned, which suggests that its acoustic properties may vary or fall into a more generic category. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch is characterized by its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which results in a slightly quieter sound while still preserving the clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. This means that while the Twilight is quieter than many clicky switches, it still may not be entirely silent, allowing for a satisfying auditory feedback without being disruptive.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green does not offer a detailed description of its tactile qualities, potentially leaving its feel somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke due to its linear design, which avoids the tactile bump found in clicky switches. The absence of a tactile feedback on the Twilight results in a different typing experience—one that many typists prefer for a seamless feel, especially during long typing sessions or gaming.

Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Green lacks specific descriptors for its subjective qualities, the HMX Twilight linear switch stands out with its quieter sound profile and smooth feel. If you're considering these switches, it's likely that the Twilight will give you a more nuanced auditory experience while providing a seamless tactile feel, whereas the Dustproof Green may necessitate further exploration to understand its characteristics fully. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can select the one that best suits their typing or gaming style.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you're looking for. If you prefer a tactile and clicky feel that provides audible feedback while you type, and you’re comfortable with a heavier actuation force of 80 grams, then the Dustproof Green is a solid choice. This switch is particularly beneficial in environments where you want to emulate the traditional typewriter experience and enjoy a robust keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter, and lighter typing experience, the HMX Twilight linear switch with its 50-gram bottom-out force would be ideal for you. The extended travel distance of 3.85mm not only makes it enjoyable for fast typists but also ensures that the sound level remains subdued, making it suitable for quieter workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, your selection should reflect whether you value a heavier, tactile feel or a lighter, smoother keystroke experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Green Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more