Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple excels in delivering a tactile feedback that many typists appreciate, providing a satisfying bump with each keypress that enhances typing accuracy and comfort. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura switches shine with their ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, designed for those who value a quieter typing environment without sacrificing responsiveness. The Sakura switches provide a smooth linear experience, making them ideal for users who prefer fluid key presses and a serene atmosphere, perfect for late-night work or shared spaces. Each switch caters to unique needs—whether you crave the tactile engagement of the Dustproof Purple or the muted elegance of the Silent Sakura. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches utilize distinctly different materials for their top housings, with the Dustproof Purple featuring polycarbonate and the Silent Sakura utilizing nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, creating a crisper auditory experience as users type. This material's inherent translucency also makes it well-suited for RGB lighting effects, allowing light to pass through more effectively. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Silent Sakura imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by its softer composition that absorbs sound. This results in a rounder, more muted audio experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing sound.

When we compare the bottom housings of the two switches, we find that both models exhibit the same material characteristics: the Dustproof Purple employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Sakura features a polycarbonate version. The nylon's softer texture, found in both switches, ensures a duller and more absorbed sound quality during keystrokes. This shared attribute is particularly significant when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, as both will convey the deeper, fuller auditory experience associated with nylon. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Sakura will deliver a sharper sound, offering a clearer auditory response that complements the high-pitched feedback produced by its top housing.

Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Outemu Dustproof Purple and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g results in a unique sound experience that is shaped significantly by the arrangement of their respective housings. While users of the Dustproof Purple can expect a sound profile that balances crispness from the polycarbonate top with the fullness provided by the nylon bottom, the Silent Sakura presents the opposite: a deeper auditory experience intensified by the nylon top. Still, the distinct elements of each switch will result in unique typing sensations, and users can expect varied auditory feedback based on their choice, even if both switches incorporate similar material principles in their complementary housings.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Purple requires an actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option ideal for users who prefer a more solid typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g offers a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, catering to those who value ease of use and comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is the heavier switch, while the HMX Silent Sakura is the lighter choice. Overall, if you are looking for a more substantial feel, the Dustproof Purple would be preferable, whereas the Silent Sakura enhances prolonged typing comfort with its lighter touch.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Therefore, when using either switch, you will achieve comparable results in terms of key travel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is not particularly noteworthy, leaving users to experience a more neutral auditory response. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed specifically to offer a remarkably quiet typing experience. Its unique engineering ensures that keystrokes produce a soft, subtle sound akin to gentle raindrops cascading against a window, making it ideal for users who prefer a serene environment. However, it's essential to note that the overall sound profile can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, which means users can achieve varying results even within similar switch types.

Regarding the feel of each switch, the Dustproof Purple lacks specific tactile feedback qualities outlined in the available information, leading to a more standard typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch provides a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump often found in tactile switches, making it an excellent choice for users who favor a consistent and fluid motion while typing. The ultra-light actuation force of 43g caters especially to lighter typists, allowing for effortless key presses—a feature that can enhance comfort during extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple may provide a more general typing experience without standout qualities, the Silent Sakura makes a clear statement with its noise-sensitive design and ultra-light actuation. Thus, for users prioritizing a quiet atmosphere and smooth feedback, the Silent Sakura would be the superior choice, while those looking for a more straightforward experience may find the Dustproof Purple adequate.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, your typing preferences and environment will play a significant role. If you lean towards a more tactile experience with a noticeable bump during key presses and don’t mind the medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, then the Dustproof Purple might be the right choice for you. This switch can provide a satisfying feedback loop that can enhance your typing accuracy during fast-paced work or gaming scenarios. However, if you value a quieter typing experience and prefer a lighter touch, the Silent Sakura - 43g will likely be more suited to your needs. Its whisper-quiet operation will ensure that you can type away without disturbing others, and the 43-gram actuation force means you won’t have to exert much effort while typing. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you prioritize a tactile feel and feedback over a silent, smooth typing experience—both wonderful options depending on your needs and environment.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more