Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Swift offer distinct experiences for users. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. The Dustproof Purple is best suited for users who prefer a satisfying click and tactile feedback while typing, while the Swift is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and quiet 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Swift lies in their housing materials. The Dustproof Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Swift features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound quality. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Dustproof Purple and the HMX Swift use nylon material. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound well, creating a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound and feel. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Swift play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. While the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, the Swift's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the presence of nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a similar deep and full sound quality when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dustproof Purple switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. On the other hand, the Swift switch offers a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, giving a lighter typing experience. The difference in weight between the two switches may cater to different preferences among users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Swift switch, which allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dustproof Purple switch for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing feel, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Dustproof Purple offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a satisfying depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Swift switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a respectable travel distance that will give users a tactile typing experience, but individuals with a preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance will appreciate the unique feel each switch offers.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 doesn't have a specific reputation in the mechanical keyboard community. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for producing a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. The Swift switch's sound profile is enhanced by its full nylon housing, providing a deeper and smoother sound experience compared to typical HMX switches. However, sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's build quality, keycaps, and environment.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have a well-established description. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These qualities indicate that the Swift switch offers a light actuation force, minimal resistance, and a smooth typing experience. The feather-light feel of the Swift switch reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions and provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience. The bouncy and creamy qualities enhance the tactile feedback and typing comfort for users.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch lacks a prominent reputation for sound and feel, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its deep, clacky sound profile and easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a sharp and snappy sound, along with a smooth and effortless typing feel, the HMX Swift switch would be a suitable choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your sound and feel preferences when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and HMX Swift switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch, the Dustproof Purple may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, easy-to-press feel with a deep sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch could be the better choice for you. Think about the sound and feel you desire in a keyboard switch and select the one that aligns best with your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits you best.
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