Outemu Dustproof Red vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Dustproof Red is often sought after for its smooth keystrokes, making it an appealing choice for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent feel without tactile resistance or clicking sounds. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g stands out for its ultra-light bottom out force of 43g, catering specifically to those who value a quiet, serene typing experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops on a window. Its design is perfect for light typists and anyone seeking to minimize noise in shared workspaces. While both switches facilitate a fluid typing experience, their unique characteristics cater to different preferences and environments. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red switches and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, one immediately notices the strategic use of polycarbonate and nylon in their constructions. The Dustproof Red switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffer properties. This creates a clear, resonant sound that pairs well with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual effects. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g switches utilize a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to generate a deeper, fuller sound. The softer nature of the nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material composition significantly influences the overall acoustics of each switch.

Examining the bottom housing, the Outemu Dustproof Red switches employ nylon, which continues the trend of a deeper sound profile, aligning with the material's traditional properties. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches opt for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which injects a sharper and more pronounced sound characteristic. This pairing reverses the top housing roles observed in the previous analysis—where the softer nylon in the Dustproof Red leads to a rounder bottom-out sound experience, the polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura emphasizes clarity and brightness. The contrasting characteristics of these materials at the bottom of the switch result in differentiated auditory feedback when the switches bottom out during typing.

Overall, while the materials are reversed between the two switches—with polycarbonate and nylon switching places in both the top and bottom housing—they still offer similar results in terms of overall sound profiles through their respective configurations. The Dustproof Red can achieve a specific crispness and depth due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon, while the Silent Sakura balances a softer feel with sharper clarity. This means that despite using different materials, both switches will yield unique yet satisfying auditory experiences, and users will still enjoy engaging typing feedback characterized by the interplay of their respective materials.

Weight

The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is ideal for users who prefer a more sensitive touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. As a result, the Dustproof Red is the heavier option, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter switch. If users seek to minimize finger strain during extended use, the Silent Sakura's lighter actuation force may be more beneficial; however, those who enjoy a firmer push might favor the Dustproof Red’s more robust feel.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and feel when using either switch. With both switches having identical travel distances, they offer a comparable tactile experience, making them equally suited for tasks that require consistent key engagement. Therefore, whether choosing the Outemu Dustproof Red or the HMX Silent Sakura, users can anticipate a uniform travel experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch doesn't have any specific qualities highlighted, making it difficult to assess its acoustic profile directly. However, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed to offer a notably quiet typing experience, characterized by a sound reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This whisper-quiet operation is perfect for environments where noise needs to be minimized. While the Dustproof Red may lean towards a more standard linear sound profile, the Silent Sakura will undoubtedly provide a more subdued auditory experience, appealing to those who prioritize silence.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch lacks specified characteristics, leaving a bit of uncertainty regarding its tactile feedback and responsiveness. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch offers an ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, making it particularly suitable for light typists who favor a smooth and gentle keystroke. This lightweight action can enhance typing speed and reduce finger fatigue during extended usage. While the Outemu switch might deliver a more traditional linear feel, the Silent Sakura guarantees a softer touch, catering well to those who prefer a delicate typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Red and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to different preferences, they both accommodate specific typing styles effectively. The Silent Sakura stands out with its whisper-quiet operation and light tactile feel, making it ideal for serene environments, while information about the sound and feel characteristics of the Dustproof Red is less clearly defined. Depending on your personal needs—whether you prioritize noise levels or switch actuation force—you may find either switch suitable, albeit with a distinct auditory and tactile experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it's crucial to consider your typing style and environment. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that provides a balanced tactile response, the Dustproof Red is a solid choice. It's particularly suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced feeling during their keystrokes and may find satisfaction in the slight resistance that comes with a heavier switch. However, if you value noise reduction and a lighter actuation force, the Silent Sakura - 43g is ideal for you. With its whisper-quiet operation, it allows for a serene typing experience that won't disrupt those around you, making it perfect for office environments or shared spaces. Furthermore, the gentle, soft feel of the Silent Sakura switches accommodates typists who prefer a more delicate touch and lighter keystrokes, contributing to an overall tranquil atmosphere. Ultimately, your decision should align with your priorities—whether comfort, noise level, or typing feedback matters most to you.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more