Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Red, a linear switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch. The Dustproof Red is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a great choice for fast typists who prefer a linear feel. On the other hand, the Plum stands out for its unique combination of weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump, offering a different typing experience compared to traditional tactile switches. While the Dustproof Red is categorized as a linear switch, the Plum falls into the category of tactile switches with a neutral, mild, and stepped feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Outemu Dustproof Red and the Kailh Plum both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Red utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the Kailh Plum also features a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of this material. While the top housings of both switches share the same qualities thanks to their polycarbonate construction, the differences in bottom housing material contribute to varying sound and feel experiences. The split between the bottom and top housing qualities means that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Kailh Plum may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer the sharp, crisp sound associated with polycarbonate top housings, but the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Dustproof Red provides a different tactile and auditory experience compared to the Kailh Plum. Whether you prefer a clear, resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing or gaming experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch differ in weight. The Dustproof Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Plum, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams while the Dustproof Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Plum switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Dustproof Red provides a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out feel despite the slight differences in weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired force weight.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch boasts a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's 4 mm travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of traditionally preferred travel distances, with the Dustproof Red being slightly longer. Gamers may lean towards the Plum switch for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Dustproof Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 Red linear switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique tactile feel without a significant tactile bump, resulting in a neutral and enjoyable sound profile as well. Both switches are suitable for a variety of environments and purposes due to their moderate sound profiles.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as offering a mild and approachable typing experience. Additionally, the Plum switch is characterized as a stepped switch, providing a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. This makes the Plum switch more gentle and less intense compared to switches with more pronounced features, appealing to a wider range of users seeking a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, both the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Red switch provides a quiet typing experience, the Plum switch stands out with its unique tactile feel and moderate sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, but users can expect satisfying results with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a smooth, consistent typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a linear feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a heavier bottom out force and a unique, moderate tactile feel, the Kailh Plum switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. Consider these factors when selecting the switch that best fits your keyboard setup and typing style.
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