Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch are two popular options worth considering. The Dustproof Purple is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is celebrated for its buttery smoothness, thocky sound signature, and lightweight touch. While the Dustproof Purple offers a satisfying tactile response, the Smoothie provides a quieter and more fluid typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both materials contribute to a unique sound experience, the polycarbonate of the Dustproof Purple provides a clear and resonant tone, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Smoothie offers a different sound profile that may appeal to those seeking a deeper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Dustproof Purple utilizes a nylon material that generates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Gateron Smoothie's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Both materials offer distinct qualities that impact the overall sound experience of the switch, with nylon providing a different sound profile than POM.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Gateron Smoothie differ in their materials, each housing material brings unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or POM, have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or POM, influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer interesting sound profiles that cater to different preferences and can enhance the typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Purple requires 65 grams to fully press the key, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The Dustproof Purple offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie's lighter actuation force may be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we find that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dustproof Purple being on the longer side and the Smoothie being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Dustproof Purple. In essence, while the two switches have slightly different travel distances, the differences are not considerable, and users can expect similar results from both in terms of key feel and actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for its unspecified sound qualities, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is praised for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound signature. The Dustproof Purple's sound profile may vary depending on other factors such as keyboard build and keycaps, while the Smoothie's sound is characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying thocky sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have any specific descriptors mentioned. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. The creamy and silky sensation provided by the Smoothie switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, creating a luxurious typing experience.
Overall, while the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are unspecified, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch stands out for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound characteristics, as well as its buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Smoothie providing a premium typing experience at an affordable price point, while the Dustproof Purple may offer a surprise factor depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can deliver similar results based on the individual's typing preferences and setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile clicky switch with a satisfying sound, the Dustproof Purple may be the perfect choice for you. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery linear switch with a lightweight touch and thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie is worth considering. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize sound or feel, and choose the switch that best suits your needs. Happy typing!
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