Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Silver. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Silver is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. While the Dustproof Purple may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Silver switch is ideal for users who prefer a smoother, quieter keystroke. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Silver housing materials lies in their top and bottom housings. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
While both the Dustproof Purple and Silver switches share the same top housing material, their bottom housings differ. The Silver switch also features a nylon bottom housing like the Dustproof Purple, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The characteristics of nylon, as a softer material that absorbs more sound, contribute to a duller and rounder sound when typing. This means that the typing experience on both switches may feel quite similar, with slight variations in sound quality based on the housing material used for the bottom of the switch.
In terms of functionality, the differences in housing materials for the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Silver switches may lead to subtle variations in sound when typing. The impact of the bottom housing material is more prominent during bottom-out sounds and key feel, while the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these distinctions, both switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials that ultimately contribute to their unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound (polycarbonate) or a deeper, fuller sound (nylon), either switch will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. The Dustproof Purple switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Silver switch requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming where lighter actuation force is preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press either of these switches, they will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches will provide a consistent and predictable feel when typing or gaming. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feedback and actuation. Overall, the travel distance of both switches makes them well-suited for different preferences and typing styles, with the Dustproof Purple offering a clicky tactile feedback while the Silver provides a smooth linear experience.
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 Silver.
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 Dustproof Purple clicky switch is popular for its sharp and distinctive click sound when typing, adding a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing sound. When considering sound, it is important to note that factors like the keyboard's build and keycap material can also influence the overall sound produced by the switch.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Purple switch is praised for its tactile feedback, providing a tactile bump during actuation that appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feel. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silver switch offers a linear feel without any tactile feedback, resulting in a consistent and smooth keystroke from top to bottom. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for either a tactile bump or a linear keystroke sensation.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. If you enjoy a clicky sound with tactile feedback, the Dustproof Purple switch might be the better option for you. Conversely, if you prefer a quiet and linear typing experience, the Outemu Silver switch is likely to be more in line with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you value most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider your preference for feel and sound. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Purple switch with its satisfying click and medium-heavy bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Silver switch with the same bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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