Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Outemu Phoenix are both clicky switches with their own distinct characteristics. The Dustproof Purple is best known for its durability and resistance to dust, making it a reliable option for those who want a long-lasting switch. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique and satisfying clicky typing experience. While the Dustproof Purple is categorized as a durable option, the Phoenix is known for its crunchy and polished feel. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal to different preferences. Let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the Dustproof Purple and the Phoenix, the top housing material of both switches is polycarbonate, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple is made of nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound. In contrast, the Phoenix's bottom housing is also polycarbonate, emphasizing the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile associated with this material.
Given the difference in bottom housing materials, when typing on the Dustproof Purple, the sound and feel will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. The Phoenix, on the other hand, will have a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. However, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, impacting the sound when pressing and releasing a key. This split between the bottom and top housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the top housing material of the Dustproof Purple and Phoenix is the same, their bottom housing materials differ, leading to distinct sound profiles when typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches benefit from the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the top housing, especially for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Purple is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the Phoenix does not have a specified actuation force. The bottom out force of the Dustproof Purple is 65 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Phoenix, which has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches provide a clicky typing experience but have slightly different weights, with the Dustproof Purple being on the heavier side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phoenix may be the better option, while the Dustproof Purple is more suitable for those who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Dustproof Purple's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance may be preferred by gamers or those looking for faster response times. Both switches offer clicky feedback, but the slight difference in travel distance may result in a different typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 and Phoenix switches offer distinct sound profiles. The Dustproof Purple is known for a yet-to-be determined sound, while the Phoenix switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches will produce satisfying clicky noises, but the Phoenix switch stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, offering a more crystalline and sparkling sound experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Purple's tactile feedback is currently unknown. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is described as having a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, which can enhance typing speed and accuracy.
In conclusion, while both switches offer clicky typing experiences, they differ in their sound and feel. The Dustproof Purple switch's subjective qualities are yet to be determined, while the Phoenix switch stands out for its crunchy sound and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. Both switches are sure to provide a satisfying clicky typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the level of bottom out force you prefer. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch, the Dustproof Purple with a bottom out force of 65 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Phoenix with a bottom out force of 62 grams might be the better option. Additionally, if you are looking for a more unique and sparkling sound profile with a crunchy feel, the Phoenix with its under-skirt click mechanism could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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