Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, the Outemu Dustproof Green and Gateron Weightlessness offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Dustproof Green switch is recognized for its clicky feedback, delivering a satisfying auditory and tactile response that many typists enjoy for its nostalgic feel reminiscent of vintage typewriters. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate clear, decisive keystrokes and enjoy the audible confirmation of each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch is celebrated for its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, providing a smoother typing experience without the loud click. Its balanced sound profile helps create a quieter environment, making it a suitable choice for office settings or late-night gaming sessions where noise can be a concern. Ultimately, selecting between these switches boils down to personal preference—whether you favor the engaging click of the Dustproof Green or the refined tactility of the Weightlessness. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Gateron Weightlessness, a clear distinction arises from the materials used in their top housings. The Dustproof Green utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material complements the switch well, especially for users who prefer a clear, resonant sound, which is further enhanced by its translucency that works beautifully with RGB lighting. In stark contrast, the Weightlessness employs nylon for its top housing, which is classic yet softer, generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This divergence in materials showcases two distinct auditory experiences, appealing to different user preferences when it comes to the tactile feedback and sound generated during typing or gaming.
However, when we turn our attention to the bottom housings, both the Dustproof Green and the Weightlessness feature nylon. This shared material results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon absorbs sound effectively compared to harder plastics. Both switches will thus deliver a muted sound at the bottom-out point, allowing for a comfortable and satisfying tactile experience. Consequently, despite the contrasting top housing materials, users can expect a consistent auditory quality from both switches at the bottom due to this commonality in their construction.
Ultimately, the combination of differing materials in the top housings with a shared material in the bottom housings leads to an intriguing balance of auditory output. The Dustproof Green, with its polycarbonate top, offers a crisper sound when keys are released, while the Weightlessness provides a fuller, softer sound due to its nylon top. When bottoming out, however, both switches deliver that deeper footfall, as determined by the nylon bottom. Thus, while the switches will provide unique experiences based on their top housings, they bring together a shared foundation that ensures desirable results, depending on user preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch present distinct differences in their actuation forces, with a notable emphasis on user preference regarding weight. The Dustproof Green features a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, making it more substantial and potentially fatiguing during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness boasts a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a more relaxed typing experience for longer periods. However, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch remains unknown, which makes direct comparisons difficult in that regard. With the Dustproof Green's bottom out force rated at 80 grams, it's clear that it provides a firmer feedback when fully pressed down, emphasizing a more durable feel. Ultimately, those who prefer lighter switches for comfort may gravitate towards the Weightlessness, while users who appreciate a heavier push will likely prefer the Dustproof Green for its robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Outemu switch provides a more traditional and deeper keystroke, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a fuller feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron switch, with its shorter travel distance, may cater more to gamers seeking faster response times and a more rapid keystroke. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Dustproof Green would be the better option, whereas the Weightlessness switch might appeal to those who favor a quicker, more responsive actuation. In this case, the Outemu switch offers the longer travel distance, while the Gateron switch has the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 switch doesn't have a readily available description, making it difficult to ascertain its acoustic qualities. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile characteristics. This suggests that the Weightlessness switches produce a harmonious auditory experience, which is likely to resonate well with users who appreciate a more refined sound without being overly loud. Keep in mind that the specific sound of any switch can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and the keycap material used, so users may experience differing auditory results with either switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch lacks specific details regarding its tactile feedback, leaving its characteristics somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switches are known for their subtle to moderate tactile feel, which provides a pleasant and balanced typing experience. Users who prefer a noticeable tactile bump without excessive stiffness or resistance may find the Weightlessness a well-suited choice. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, making it a favorable option for both casual typists and those engaged in extensive typing sessions.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Green switch remains an enigma in terms of its sound and feel qualities, the Gateron Weightlessness switch is recognized for its balanced sound and moderate tactile feedback. If sound quality is paramount to you, the Weightlessness offers a clear advantage. Conversely, if you are drawn to the Dustproof Green for its other potential features or if you are willing to experiment, you can find a switch that may suit your needs by considering the specific aspects that matter most in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch mainly depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavier switch that provides a pronounced and audible click, with an 80-gram bottom-out force that delivers a satisfying, albeit demanding, feedback, the Dustproof Green is likely the right choice for you. It’s particularly suited for users who appreciate the tactile sensation and feedback that comes with each keypress, often preferred by typists or gamers who thrive on precision and feel in their input devices. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a subtle to moderate tactile feel that avoids overwhelming sound while typing, the Gateron Weightlessness switch could be your ideal option. These switches offer a more balanced sound profile and a comfortable typing experience, catering to those who favor a gentler keystroke without the strain of heavier forces. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a heavy, clicky sensation or a smooth, understated tactile experience.
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