Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu 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 Red offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, providing tactile feedback and an audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the Red switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible feedback. Depending on personal preferences, the Dustproof Purple may be preferred by those who enjoy the satisfying click sound and tactile feel, while the Red switch may be favored by users looking for a quieter and more linear 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
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Red both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's nylon bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing characteristics, the difference in bottom housing material affects the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, whereas the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Outemu Dustproof Purple will provide a unique typing experience with a sharper sound on key release, while the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing on the Red will be more pronounced during key presses.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Red ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience due to their housing materials, with the Dustproof Purple emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, and the Red providing a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. If a consistent sound profile is desired, both switches can achieve similar results with their polycarbonate top housings, but the difference in bottom housing material will offer a unique typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch with 46 grams, making the Red the lighter option. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Purple requires 65 grams, while the Red needs 62 grams, making them quite similar in this aspect. The Dustproof Purple provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Red switch offers a lighter actuation force, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is 4 mm, which is the same as the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch. Both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Dustproof Purple clicky switch or the Red linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. This ensures that your typing experience will be consistent and reliable regardless of the switch type you choose.
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 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
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for its crisp and clicky sound, which is satisfying for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Purple switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback with each keystroke, enhancing the typing experience for users who enjoy a tactile response. In contrast, the Red switch provides a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, allowing for a seamless and smooth typing experience.
Overall, if you enjoy a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Outemu Red switch would be more appropriate. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between the two. Ultimately, either switch will provide a reliable and responsive typing experience for newcomers looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and prefer a clicky sound and tactile feel, the Dustproof Purple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a smooth, linear feel without any tactile feedback, the Red switch would be more suitable for you. Consider how you like your keyboard to sound and feel, as well as your typing style, when making your decision. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
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