Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Tom offer different typing experiences for users. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its audible click sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch, providing a slight bump feeling when the key is actuated. While the Dustproof Purple may be preferred by those who enjoy the satisfying click sound and feedback, the Tom may appeal to typists who prefer a more subtle tactile response. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Tom switches share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics.
However, one key difference between the two switches lies in their housing materials. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the Dustproof Purple switches feature a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Outemu Tom switches also utilize polycarbonate for the bottom housing. This difference may result in a slightly different typing experience, as the bottom housing material can have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. Nonetheless, both switches offer a combination of materials that work together to provide a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Tom switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. While the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Dustproof Purple utilizing nylon and the Tom using polycarbonate, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with a blend of different housing materials that contribute to a deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the specific typing experience each housing material brings to the table.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch both have an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, the Dustproof Purple has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Tom switch of which the bottom out force is unknown. The Dustproof Purple switch offers a medium-heavy typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit of resistance, while the Tom switch is more of an unknown variable in this comparison. In terms of weight preference, the Dustproof Purple switch may cater more to those who enjoy a bit of heft in their keystrokes, while the Tom switch remains a mystery in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual typing preferences - whether one prefers a slightly heavier typing experience or is more comfortable with an unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it can be seen that the Dustproof Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Tom's travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Dustproof Purple offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Tom provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress may opt for the Dustproof Purple. Both switches offer unique characteristics, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. In essence, choosing one over the other will result in different experiences when typing, but the overall functionality and performance will be similar.
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 Tom.
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
On the topic of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for its crisp and loud click when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a more subtle sound profile, with a softer noise when activated. When considering the sound aspect, the Dustproof Purple will result in a more pronounced clicking noise compared to the Tom switch.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch provides a tactile bump as well as an audible click when pressed, delivering a tactile and auditory experience for the user. Conversely, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a tactile bump without the loud click, focusing more on the feel of the keypress itself. Therefore, those looking for a more tactile and audible experience may prefer the Dustproof Purple, while users seeking a tactile but quieter typing experience may lean towards the Tom switch.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple excels in providing a distinct clicking sound and tactile feedback, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom switch offers a quieter tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a tactile response without the loud click. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
Therefore, if you are looking for a switch that offers a satisfying clicky sound and a tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a unique tactile bump without the audibly loud click, the Outemu Tom tactile switch would be more suitable for your preference. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Choose wisely based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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