Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Everglide Tourmaline Blue offer unique experiences for users. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that is best known for its tactile feedback and audible click, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is a linear switch that boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. While the Dustproof Purple is categorized as a clicky switch, the Tourmaline Blue falls under the linear category. If you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Purple may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a smooth and quiet typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Tourmaline Blue could be the ideal choice. 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
55g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar qualities in terms of sound profile and visual customization with the top housing of both switches being made of polycarbonate.
On the other hand, a notable difference lies in the bottom housing material used in each switch. The Dustproof Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing with a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, with the Dustproof Purple offering a softer touch compared to the Tourmaline Blue.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue highlights the impact of polycarbonate and nylon on the sound profiles and tactile experiences of the switches. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, the differing bottom housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences. Whether users prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller one, these distinctions in housing materials cater to varying preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, the actuation force of the Dustproof Purple is slightly lighter at 55 grams compared to the Tourmaline Blue's 59 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams and the Tourmaline Blue at 67 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Purple requires less force to trigger a keystroke, both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. The lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Purple may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the Tourmaline Blue's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing style and desired keyboarding experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar feedback and typing experience in terms of key travel when using either of these switches. Despite having the same travel distance, the tactile and audible differences between the clicky Outemu switch and the linear Everglide switch may influence the overall typing experience for users. Overall, while the travel distance is the same, the feedback and typing feel of each switch may differ based on the specific switch type.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
The Outemu Dustproof Purple 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
In terms of sound, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific descriptor available, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the Tourmaline Blue's neutral and moderate sound profile. This means that the sound of the Dustproof Purple may vary depending on the specific components it is paired with, such as the keyboard and keycaps. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, offering a satisfying typing experience that is accessible to a wide range of users.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific descriptor available, making it challenging to directly compare it to the Tourmaline Blue's attributes such as being buttery, easy-to-press, and mild. The Tourmaline Blue switch is praised for its smooth and fluid keystroke experience, as well as its gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple switch may have varying sound profiles depending on other factors, the Tourmaline Blue switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, along with a smooth and buttery feel. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on their personal preferences and typing style. No matter which switch is chosen, both offer quality and enjoyable typing experiences for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a similar bottom out force that offers a deep and thocky sound profile and a smooth, buttery feel, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch could be the one to consider. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for clicky vs linear switches and the sound and feel that best suits your typing style. Choose wisely and enjoy your new mechanical keyboard switch experience!
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