Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Durock Sea Glass, there are notable differences to consider. The Dustproof Red switch is best known for its durability and dustproof design, providing a reliable option for users looking for a long-lasting switch. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock stands out with its captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience characterized by a distinct dryness and airiness. While both switches offer a smooth keystroke, the Sea Glass switches have a weightlessness and frictionless nature that sets them apart. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Red and the Durock Sea Glass both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Sea Glass has a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing that offers a pleasant sound profile without being overly sharp. Both switches use different materials for their top housing, resulting in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing of the Sea Glass offers a unique sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. Despite using different materials for their bottom housings, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Durock Sea Glass are different, each housing material brings its own qualities to the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, both switches offer a range of options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a custom typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dustproof Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Sea Glass has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making the Sea Glass slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force for both switches is relatively light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Sea Glass may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance for mechanical keyboard switches. The Dustproof Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. On the other hand, the Sea Glass with its shorter travel distance might be more appealing to gamers seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
The Dustproof Red and the Sea Glass switches offer distinct sound profiles. While the Dustproof Red's sound characteristics are unknown, the Sea Glass switches are described as having a uniquely hollow sound signature. This difference in sound can add an extra level of satisfaction to the typing experience, depending on the user's preferences and the setup of their keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Red switches lack specific descriptors, while the Sea Glass switches are described as frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The weightlessness and frictionless nature of the Sea Glass switches enhance the overall typing feel, providing a pleasant and responsive keypress with little strain on the fingers.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Red and Durock Sea Glass switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Red's subjective qualities are unknown, but users can expect a smooth typing experience with a potentially different sound profile. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches are praised for their captivating pastel colors, frictionless feel, and hollow sound signature, making them a standout choice for those seeking a light and effortless typing experience. Whether choosing the Dustproof Red or the Sea Glass switches, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that suits their preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it's important to consider your priorities. If you value a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and a standard linear switch without any particular standout features, the Dustproof Red may be the right choice for you. However, if you're looking for a unique typing experience with a bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Durock Sea Glass switches present a captivating selection of pastel colors and a proprietary material blend that creates a distinct dryness and weightlessness. Their frictionless nature and smoothness make them a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, offering a typing experience that defies expectations. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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