Outemu Dustproof Red vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the HMX Twilight both stand out as compelling linear options, each with its unique set of advantages. The Outemu Dustproof Red is designed for users seeking a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing where precision and rapid response are key. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight boasts an extended 3.85mm travel distance, providing a slightly quieter operation while retaining the signature clacky sound characteristic of HMX switches, which can appeal to those who appreciate tactile feedback without compromising on noise levels. While the Dustproof Red prioritizes speed and performance, the Twilight emphasizes a hybrid experience of responsiveness and auditory satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Red and HMX Twilight switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in varied auditory experiences. The Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffer nature ensures that when a key is released, the sound produced is more resonant and clear, particularly benefiting those who appreciate RGB lighting, as polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the HMX Twilight opts for a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound waves, creating a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Thus, while the Dustproof Red emphasizes clarity and brightness in sound, the Twilight embraces a broader, more rounded audio output, showcasing how material choice can fundamentally alter the user's perception of a switch.

Examining the bottom housing materials, both the Dustproof Red and the HMX Twilight utilize nylon, offering a striking similarity in the impact this component has on keypress feedback. The nylon employed in the bottom housing provides a substantial and rich sound profile, creating a deeper acoustic environment that absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. This shared characteristic means that, regardless of their differing top housing designs, both switches result in similar qualities regarding the bottoming-out experience during typing. The deeper sound produced by the nylon bottom in both switches ensures a filled-out acoustic effect that many users find appealing, highlighting how both models converge in their engagement with these materials.

In summary, the main contrast between the Outemu Dustproof Red and the HMX Twilight lies in their top housing materials. The polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Red yields a brighter and more articulated sound, while the nylon top of the Twilight creates a softer, fuller tone. However, their identical nylon bottom housings serve to unify their performance, as both switches deliver a rich auditory experience upon pressing down. Hence, despite the differences in their top housing that impact the sound upon release, a consistent auditory richness is maintained with the shared nylon bottoms, leading to a unique blend of qualities across these two switches.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Dustproof Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Twilight is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which makes it a more suitable option for those who seek a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. While the Dustproof Red provides a sturdier typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback, the Twilight allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort. Therefore, if you favor a heavier switch for a more substantial feel, the Dustproof Red is ideal. However, if ease of use and less finger fatigue is more important to you, the HMX Twilight would be the better choice. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences based on their weight and keypress feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Dustproof Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional design favored by those who appreciate a more pronounced key press. In contrast, the HMX Twilight has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm, catering to the growing preference for quicker responsiveness, particularly among gamers. As such, if rapid key activation is a priority, the Twilight may be the more suitable choice due to its shorter travel. While the difference is minimal, users might find the Dustproof Red's additional 0.15 mm offers a heftier feel for those who prefer deeper key presses, in line with more conventional key switch designs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is relatively understated, offering a muted typing experience that is not overly pronounced, making it suitable for quiet environments. In comparison, the HMX Twilight linear switch is characterized by its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which results in a quieter sound while still preserving the distinct clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. This means that while both switches aim for a subdued acoustics profile, the Twilight manages to incorporate a slight resonance that can enhance the tactile feedback without being overly loud.

When considering feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is often appreciated for its smooth linear action, providing a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or resistance until it bottoms out. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a similarly fluid feel but with the added benefit of a longer travel distance, which may contribute to a more dynamic typing experience. The additional travel can facilitate a more deliberate keystroke and an engaging feedback loop for the typist, depending on individual preferences.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Dustproof Red and HMX Twilight linear switches cater to those seeking a linear switch with a focus on quiet operation, though each offers a slightly different auditory experience. The Dustproof Red excels in having a more muted sound profile, while the Twilight balances quietness with a bit of character. In terms of feel, both provide a smooth experience, with the Twilight’s extended travel potentially adding to the overall typing satisfaction. Newcomers to the mechanical keyboard scene can look to either switch for a linear typing experience, utilizing factors like board design and keycaps to tailor their overall sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a medium actuation force of 60 grams and enjoy a more robust feel while typing, the Outemu Dustproof Red may be the better option for you. Its construction is likely to stand up to dust and debris, making it a solid choice for environments that may expose your keyboard to particles. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter keypress with a bottom out force of just 50 grams, the HMX Twilight can provide a more effortless typing experience. Its extended 3.85mm travel distance brings a quieter operation while still maintaining the classic clack sound typical of HMX switches, making it ideal for both gaming and typing without overwhelming noise. In essence, consider your specific needs regarding key feel, sound, and environmental factors when deciding which switch is best for you.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more