Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback with an audible click, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch that offers a quieter operation with a smooth and buttery feel, perfect for users looking for a more subdued typing experience. Both switches have their own appeal and strengths, making them suitable for different uses and preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Dustproof Purple uses nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to polycarbonate. Similarly, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharp and resonant sound, the difference lies in the nylon bottom housings. The Outemu Dustproof Purple offers a softer typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear provides a similar sound but with a slightly different feel due to the nylon material. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Purple is heavier at 65 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between a light touch for extended typing sessions and a more substantial feel for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. A 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 unique sound profile, characterized by a sharp and crisp click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offers a subdued sound that is dampened and more subtle compared to most switches. The Semi-Silent Linear provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, making it suitable for environments where noise level is a concern. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard design and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is noted for being snappy and responsive, providing a lively typing sensation. The feel of a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, and the Semi-Silent Linear's combination of qualities aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
From the information provided, it is evident that the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple is known for its clicky sound profile, the Semi-Silent Linear excels in providing a quiet and subdued typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and environments, allowing users to choose based on their specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, whether you opt for the clicky feel of the Dustproof Purple or the semi-silent feel of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, you can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, think about your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound without any specific features, the Dustproof Purple may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a semi-silent switch with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, and a silky smooth type feel with a more neutral sound profile, the Semi-Silent Linear might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and typing experience.
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