Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch to elevate your typing and gaming experience, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Sunset Gleam offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple, a tactile switch, is designed to provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, giving users tactile feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more engaged typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, featuring a perfect blend of materials that produce a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, augmented by HMX's exceptional factory lube. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing or gaming sessions. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches share a notable similarity in their top housing material: polycarbonate. This commonality results in a comparable sound profile, where users can expect a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of the sound produced, leading to a more articulate auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucence of the polycarbonate housing allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Therefore, if users seek bright and vibrant lighting effects alongside a distinct sound profile, both models will deliver similar performance attributes due to this shared feature.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Sunset Gleam are both constructed from nylon, which imparts a distinctly different auditory quality. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, yielding a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a rounded and cushioned experience upon key press. This contrasts with the sharper attack provided by the polycarbonate top, resulting in an interconnected but nuanced typing experience, where the individual materials contribute uniquely to the overall sound as well as to the tactile feedback felt by users.

Ultimately, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches incorporate different materials for their top and bottom housings, they harmonize well to offer an engaging typing experience. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for a bright top-end sound and nylon for a more subdued, full-bodied sound beneath. This combination results in complementary characteristics that enhance the overall performance. Users can confidently choose either switch, knowing that they will achieve a balance of sharpness and fullness, allowing for a dynamic aural experience as they engage with their mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a notable distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Dustproof Purple requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience during long sessions. Consequently, the Dustproof Purple offers a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a stronger push, while the Sunset Gleam caters to those favoring lower resistance for extended use. Overall, users looking for a lighter feel should gravitate toward the HMX Sunset Gleam, while those seeking a heftier switch would benefit from the Outemu Dustproof Purple.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which can significantly influence the typing experience. The Dustproof Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This 0.5 mm difference means that the Dustproof Purple offers a more pronounced depth with each keystroke, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and a hearty feel. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Gleam aligns well with current gaming trends, providing quicker response times that gamers often seek for enhanced performance. Thus, if you favor a more responsive typing experience, the Sunset Gleam would be the better choice due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke and a more satisfying tactile feel, the Dustproof Purple is the superior option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch has no distinctive auditory characteristics noted, making it somewhat ambiguous in terms of acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam is celebrated for its well-balanced sound profile, featuring a subtle top-out followed by a satisfying clack. This sound quality is enhanced by HMX's renowned factory lube, which helps dampen any unwanted noise while contributing to that pleasant auditory experience. Nevertheless, keep in mind that the overall sound will still be influenced by other factors like the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple does not have a specific feel described, leaving it uncertain what tactile feedback it provides to the user. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam's linear action offers a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bump. This characteristic makes it perfect for those who prefer a fluid typing experience, without the feedback that tactile or clicky switches provide. The quality of the factory lube also helps in enhancing the smoothness of the key presses, offering a more refined tactile sensation.

Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of these two switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple remains somewhat of an enigma due to the lack of defined characteristics. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam stands out for its auditory clarity and smooth, linear feel, ideal for users seeking a seamless typing experience. If a user is drawn to a specific aspect, such as sound or tactile feedback, the Sunset Gleam appears to be the more appealing choice, while the Dustproof Purple offers an unknown variable that could be explored further.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you, especially if you enjoy programming or gaming where feedback can enhance your performance. Its tactile nature can provide that satisfying reassurance that you’ve engaged the switch, which is great for typists who like a pronounced feel. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and desire a smooth, linear experience with a bottom out force of only 48 grams, the Sunset Gleam would suit you perfectly. This switch excels in providing a satisfying clack sound and a silky keystroke, making it a fantastic option for those who type quickly or play games that require speed and accuracy. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and the sounds or feels you find most enjoyable.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more