Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Dustproof Red is best known for its durability with its dustproof design, while the Tourmaline Blue offers a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. The Dustproof Red is categorized as a linear switch, while the Tourmaline Blue is categorized as a switch with characteristics like "buttery," "easy-to-press," "mild," and "neutral." Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that they will likely produce similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting setups, offering a visually appealing aesthetic option for keyboard enthusiasts. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material, with the Dustproof Red using nylon and the Tourmaline Blue sticking with polycarbonate. The Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing is said to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, more resonant sound.
When it comes to the typing experience, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall feel and sound of a switch. With the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound and creating a duller sound profile, users can expect a softer and more muted typing experience compared to the Tourmaline Blue's sharper, crisper sound profile from its polycarbonate bottom housing. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom also means that users will feel the qualities of each material differently as they press down and release the keys, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when lifting off a key.
Ultimately, while the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue share polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of typing feel and sound. The Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. Keyboard enthusiasts can choose between the two based on their preferences for sound and feel, knowing that the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Tourmaline Blue is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial push feel. Those looking for a longer typing session may appreciate the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Red, while users seeking a tactile and responsive typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Tourmaline Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. It's worth noting that both switches offer a smooth linear action, making them ideal for fast and precise typing or gaming. Overall, whether you choose the Dustproof Red or the Tourmaline Blue switch, you can expect similar performance in terms of travel distance and keypress experience.
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 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to compare directly to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch, which is described as having a neutral sound profile. The Tourmaline Blue switch offers a deep and thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is not characterized in the provided information. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is described as offering a buttery, easy-to-press, and mild typing experience. This means that the Tourmaline Blue switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, low resistance during key presses for effortless typing, and a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Red and Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches differ in terms of sound and feel based on the provided information, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. If the Dustproof Red switch is similar to the Tourmaline Blue switch in terms of sound and feel, you can expect a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, trying out different switches firsthand can help you determine which switch best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a standard typing experience, the Dustproof Reds may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Tourmaline Blues would be a great option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is important to evaluate what you value most in a switch when making your decision.
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