Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple, a tactile switch, provides users with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte is a linear switch designed for a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that appeals to gamers and those who favor swift, fluid typing. While the Strawberry Latte is noted for its balanced sound profile—neither too quiet nor excessively resonant—the Dustproof Purple's tactile nature lends itself to enhanced precision. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and intended use. 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
45g
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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches, a significant distinction arises in the materials used for their top housings. The Dustproof Purple utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that enhances the switch's auditory profile by producing a sharper and crisper sound. This stiffness contributes to a clear resonance that pairs particularly well with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte features a POK top housing, which, while also designed to deliver a smooth typing experience, does not achieve the same level of acoustic clarity as polycarbonate. Instead, POK focuses on durability and friction reduction, with a coefficient of friction that emphasizes its smoothness. Thus, while the Dustproof Purple offers superior sound resonance with its polycarbonate construction, the Strawberry Latte prioritizes a seamless and reliable tactile experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches share the classic nylon material. This commonality means that they will both exhibit the deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon. It absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a softer auditory feedback when the key bottoms out. This similarity ensures that, irrespective of the differences in their top housing materials, users will still experience a generally rounder sound with both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte. This essentially creates a harmonious acoustic experience at the base of the switch, balancing out the distinctions made by varying the top housing.
As a result, even with contrasting top housing materials, both switches can still deliver a well-rounded typing experience with their nylon bottoms. The interplay of the characteristics brought forth by each material in the overall sonic profile is crucial; while the Dustproof Purple may shine in high-end audio clarity due to its polycarbonate top, the Strawberry Latte's focus on durability and smoothness can attract those seeking a more tactile input. Ultimately, the choice will depend on whether an enthusiast prioritizes the visual and acoustic enhancements of the polycarbonate or the robust, smooth performance of POK, all while both switches maintain a familiar deep sound due to their identical nylon bases.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, it's evident that they cater to distinct preferences based on their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Purple features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, designed for those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience and might prefer the added resistance during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a more effortless typing experience. Consequently, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is the heavier option, while the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter switch. For individuals who favor lighter switches, the Strawberry Latte offers less strain during extensive usage, whereas those seeking a more tactile feedback and robust feel will lean towards the Dustproof Purple.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Dustproof Purple measuring 4 mm and the Strawberry Latte at 3.6 mm. This variance means that the Dustproof Purple provides a deeper keystroke experience, which some users may find more satisfying and substantial. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Latte caters to those who prefer quicker, more responsive feedback, a characteristic often favored by gamers for faster reaction times. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that offers a more pronounced depth, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is the better choice. Conversely, if a brisk response is your priority, the Huano Strawberry Latte may suit your needs better, making it a matter of personal preference in terms of tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches, the Dustproof Purple has undefined qualities in this area. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte is characterized by a balanced sound profile that strikes a nice middle ground—not too quiet yet not overly resonant. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, allowing users to enjoy a pleasant auditory experience without being too intrusive. It's important to keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of tactile feedback, while the Dustproof Purple lacks a specific description regarding its feel, the Strawberry Latte is noted for its extremely smooth action, thanks to Huano's latest molding techniques. This smoothness can enhance the typing experience, making it especially suitable for those who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes. The lack of description for the Dustproof Purple’s feel leaves room for interpretation, but without concrete insights, it’s difficult to draw a direct comparison.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch lacks defined characteristics in both sound and feel, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a smooth typing experience paired with a balanced sound profile. For those who want a reliable experience, choosing the Strawberry Latte ensures consistent results, though the unknown qualities of the Dustproof Purple might intrigue some users looking for an alternative. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel, and exploring these switches will be essential for finding the perfect match for your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch should largely depend on your typing preferences and the kind of feedback you desire from your keyboard. If you tend to prefer a more substantial tactile feedback with a heavier resistance, the Dustproof Purple may be your go-to option, particularly for applications that require more intentional keystrokes, such as programming or touch typing. The higher actuation force can foster a more deliberate typing experience, helping to reduce accidental presses. However, if you favor a smoother and lighter typing experience, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing where quick responses are vital, the Strawberry Latte will likely serve you better. With its light actuation force and super smooth feel, it can enhance your speed while providing a pleasant auditory experience without being overly loud or resonant. Ultimately, consider what feels right for you and what applications you will be using the keyboard for, as both switches have distinct advantages that cater to different types of users.
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