Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Dustproof Red offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, meaning it provides audible and tactile feedback with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying sound and feel of typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience without the audible click, which may be preferred by those looking for a quieter option. Both switches are known for their dustproof design, ensuring longevity and durability. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Partial box
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
The Outemu Dustproof Purple and Dustproof Red switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Red also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar sound profile with its softer material.
While both the Dustproof Purple and Dustproof Red switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the impact of the housing materials differs when it comes to the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the similarities in the materials used for the top housing, the bottom housing's characteristics distinguish the typing experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Dustproof Red switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Dustproof Purple and Dustproof Red switches provide users with options to cater to their preferences for sound and feel, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Dustproof Purple or a fuller sound with the Dustproof Red, both switches deliver quality performance with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Purple requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. This means that the Dustproof Purple will provide a slightly heavier typing experience when initiating keystrokes. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams and the Dustproof Red at 60 grams. This indicates that once the key is fully pressed, the typing experience will feel relatively similar between the two switches. In terms of weight, the Dustproof Red can be considered lighter, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is the same, at 4 mm each. This means that both switches provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key, as they both offer the same amount of travel distance. This ensures consistent feel and responsiveness for users who prefer either clicky or linear switches. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows users to choose based on their preferred switch type without sacrificing the tactile feedback they desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Dustproof Purple and Dustproof Red.
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 Purple clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch offers a quieter experience with no audible click, making it better suited for environments where noise is a concern. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences for auditory feedback during typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible feedback, providing a more pronounced typing experience with each key press. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a linear and fluid typing experience. The feel of these switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall comfort and typing performance for users.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Depending on personal preferences for auditory feedback and typing experience, users can choose between the clicky and tactile nature of the Purple switch or the smooth and linear feel of the Red switch. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide durability with the added feature of dustproofing, ensuring a reliable performance over time. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the characteristics of each switch carefully. If you enjoy a clicky sound and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, then the Dustproof Purple may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, then the Dustproof Red would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
