Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Milk Blue are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Dustproof Red is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch, offering a satisfying click sound with each key press. While the Dustproof Red may be preferred for its silent operation, the Milk Blue is chosen for the auditory feedback it provides. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and Outemu Milk Blue switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches, with a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound being produced. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. However, the difference in the bottom housing materials sets the switches apart, with the Dustproof Red featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Milk Blue has a polycarbonate bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Dustproof Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Milk Blue provides a different typing experience, with a sound profile that is impacted by the stiffer nature of the material. Despite both switches having similar top housing materials, the variation in bottom housing materials results in a noticeable difference in sound profile and typing feel between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the typing experience. While both the Outemu Dustproof Red and Outemu Milk Blue switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials leads to distinct differences in sound profiles. The Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Milk Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in a switch design allows for a customized typing experience based on the user's preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the Dustproof Red is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, the Dustproof Red is heavier when it comes to bottom out force at 60 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. Both switches provide a different typing experience - the Dustproof Red offers a more medium level of resistance for a balance between typing comfort and feedback, while the Milk Blue is likely to offer a more clicky and tactile typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is exactly the same at 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent amount of key travel from the top to the bottom, providing a similar typing experience in terms of distance covered. The Dustproof Red and Milk Blue switches are equal in this aspect, making them both convenient choices for users who prefer a standard key travel distance. Overall, whether you choose the Dustproof Red or Milk Blue switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Dustproof Red and Milk Blue.
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
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is often praised for its smooth and quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is beloved for its crisp and satisfying click sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Red is known for its consistent actuation and linear travel, giving users a consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing users with a more pronounced feedback when typing.
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch would be the ideal option for you. Keep in mind that both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making a decision between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should choose the Dustproof Red if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a quieter typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who want a smooth, linear feel without the distraction of loud clicky noises. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile experience with an audible click sound, the Milk Blue switch would be the better choice for you. With its satisfying click and tactile feedback, the Milk Blue switch is perfect for those who want a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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