Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, several key differences and similarities emerge. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast response time and linear action, making it ideal for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge with its low spring resistance and instant triggering capabilities. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red, while lacking specific standout features, offers a reliable and smooth linear typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver is described as textured, thocky, and low-pitched, the Dustproof Red does not have any specific categorizations. These general pointers can help guide your decision-making process; 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
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Dustproof Red switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile and feel of the switches. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. While both materials have their own qualities, they offer a different typing experience based on the sound produced.
On the bottom housing side, both switches use nylon, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Dustproof Red switches may still provide a slightly different typing experience due to the top housing material influencing the overall sound profile. However, users can expect a similar level of depth and fullness in sound due to the shared bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Dustproof Red switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent foundation for a deeper and fuller sound, while the differing top housing materials offer unique characteristics in sound projection. Whether you prefer the softer, more absorbing quality of nylon in the MX Speed Silver or the sharper, clearer sound of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Red, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that they have significant differences. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. In contrast, the Dustproof Red has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Red is 60 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully press down compared to the MX Speed Silver, where the bottom out force is unknown. This difference in force can impact the typing experience for users depending on their preference for a lighter or heavier feel. Ultimately, the MX Speed Silver is lighter in force, while the Dustproof Red is heavier, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Red may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for. Both switches offer a different feel and response, so it's important to consider what works best for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 comparing the sound of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches, the Speed Silver is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, information regarding the sound quality of the Dustproof Red switch is not available. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, which may offer users a tactile typing experience with noticeable friction. However, details about the feel of the Dustproof Red switch are not provided. Overall, while the MX Speed Silver excels in rapid response time and has a distinctive sound and feel, the lack of available information on the Outemu Dustproof Red makes it difficult to directly compare the two switches. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to individual preferences and intended usage, but both switches are linear and can provide similar results in terms of smooth key presses.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and instant responsiveness, especially for gaming applications where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice with its light linear action and rapid triggering capability. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a dustproof option, the Outemu Dustproof Red could be the better fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style, gaming requirements, and desired sound and feel preferences.
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