Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Akko Rosewood present distinct options that cater to different user preferences. The Dustproof Red is a straightforward linear switch, appealing to gamers and typists alike who prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Rosewood excels in delivering an auditory experience; its deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, makes it an attractive option for users who enjoy a more responsive acoustic environment. While both switches share the linear characteristic, the Outemu Dustproof Red provides a more muted performance ideal for quiet environments, whereas the Akko Rosewood adds an enriching sound dimension to each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Red and Akko Rosewood distinguish themselves primarily through their top housing materials, which play a significant role in the overall auditory experience when typing. The Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its rigidity. This stiffer nature allows the switch to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances the clarity and resonance during keypresses, particularly favored in setups that utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood is constructed with a nylon top housing, which, as a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound rather than amplify it. This results in a deeper, rounder sound profile that is characterized as mellower and fuller, providing a different typing experience that may be preferred by users looking for a more muted or subtle auditory feedback.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which showcases a consistent element in their design. The nylon material creates a similar sound profile focus when pressing the switch down, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound characteristic common to many switches featuring nylon. This aspect of their construction allows both the Dustproof Red and the Rosewood to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, even though their top and bottom housings contribute differently to the overall auditory signature. This highlights that while the Dustproof Red may focus on a crisper sound when releasing a key due to its polycarbonate top, the bottom-out sound and feel shared by both switches will ultimately resonate in a similar manner due to the nylon material used in their base housings.
In conclusion, the main contrasts between the Outemu Dustproof Red and Akko Rosewood stem from their top housings, leading to unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Users who enjoy the crispness and clarity of a polycarbonate top may lean towards the Dustproof Red, especially in RGB setups, while those who favor a warmer, rounder typing sound might prefer the Rosewood. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a uniformity in deeper sound quality during key presses, creating an interesting dynamic between the contrasting auditory experiences brought forth by the differing top housing materials. Thus, while the overall sound profiles may diverge, the foundational qualities provided by nylon help bridge some of the differences, ensuring that both switches have commendable sound dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, notable differences arise. The Dustproof Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorized as medium in weight, while the Rosewood is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, both classified as light. This means that users of the Rosewood switch will experience a gentler keystroke activation and less resistance when bottoming out, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Dustproof Red, being heavier, provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Therefore, if one desires a lighter touch for efficiency and comfort, the Akko Rosewood is the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Red may cater to those who appreciate a stronger key press.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience identical distances when pressing down on the keys. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches will provide comparable tactile feedback and keystroke feel, making them suitable for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. As a result, whether using the Outemu Dustproof Red or the Akko Rosewood, users can expect similar performance in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
The Outemu Dustproof Red 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 Red switch lacks a distinctive character, making it relatively neutral or unremarkable in comparison to other linear switches. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch produces a deep, satisfying thocky sound straight out of the box, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that contributes to its acoustic profile. This difference means that while you may experience a quieter and less defined auditory feedback with the Dustproof Red, the Rosewood offers a more immersive sound experience that many enthusiasts appreciate.
Regarding feel, the Dustproof Red switch does not have specific qualities highlighted, making it difficult to assess its tactile feedback. Conversely, the Rosewood switch is acknowledged for its smooth linear action, resulting in a satisfying typing experience that is both responsive and consistent. Users often gravitate towards linear switches like the Rosewood for their effortless keypress, allowing for fluid typing and gaming sessions without interruption.
Overall, if you're considering these two options, the Outemu Dustproof Red will provide a more subdued, neutral experience in both sound and feel, while the Akko Rosewood stands out with its pronounced thocky sound and smooth action. If you're seeking clear auditory satisfaction coupled with excellent feel, the Rosewood may be the better choice, whereas the Dustproof Red will deliver similar typing results but with less character. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize acoustics and tactile responsiveness or are looking for a more understated switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing experience. If you prefer a switch that offers a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, providing a sturdier feel during typing or gaming sessions, then the Dustproof Red might be the better choice for you. This switch can be ideal if you enjoy a bit more resistance under your fingers, which can lead to more deliberate keystrokes, especially in fast-paced gaming situations. However, if you're looking for a lighter touch, the Rosewood, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, may be more suitable. It provides a smooth and effortless typing experience and is perfect for long typing sessions where fatigue might become a concern. Additionally, the unique deep and satisfying "thocky" sound of the Rosewood makes it a delightful option for those who appreciate auditory feedback while they type. If sound and feel are paramount in your decision, the Akko Rosewood's factory lubrication enhances both aspects significantly. In essence, your choice should hinge on your typing style and whether you value a heavier, more tactile experience or a lighter, more acoustic one.
Mentioned in this article
