Outemu Crystal vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options available, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Medium Tactile, stand out among the rest. The Outemu Crystal is a linear switch that provides a fairly elastic feel with medium-light weight, resulting in a distinct linear typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switch produces a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility. This particular tactile switch from Durock has been praised for its jelly-like sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Durock Medium Tactile switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a switch with a distinct and vibrant auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Crystal employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Medium Tactile utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon as compared to polycarbonate allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound experience.
It is important to consider that the qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the impact and resulting sound will be influenced by the bottom housing. The top housing, on the other hand, will have a more noticeable impact on the sound produced when releasing a pressed key. While the Crystal and the Medium Tactile may differ in their bottom housing materials, they both deliver unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light feel for triggering keystrokes, while the Medium Tactile's actuation force is unavailable, leaving us uncertain. However, the Crystal switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Medium Tactile's 65 grams, making it the lighter option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Considering weight is important because it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some individuals may prefer a lighter actuation force, like that of the Crystal switch, as it allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may opt for a stronger push feel, like that offered by the heavier bottom out force of the Medium Tactile switch. This heavier force can provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer it.
It is worth noting that without information on the actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch, it is difficult to make an accurate comparison. However, if the actuation force happens to be similar or equal to the Crystal switch's 45 grams, then the two switches may provide similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. Nonetheless, the Crystal switch's lighter bottom out force would still differentiate it from the Medium Tactile switch's medium-heavy force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same travel distance of 4mm. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar experience, ensuring a consistent feel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Crystal linear switch offers a unique acoustic profile. Described as "chirpy," these switches have a slight squeak to them, setting them apart from other switches. Additionally, they have a high-pitched sound that produces sharp and crisp tones when pressed. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer a brighter sound profile. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch provides a polished typing experience. With a smooth and refined finish, these switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a sleek and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It has a stepped feel, giving it a more mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. These switches also fall into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Similar to the Crystal switches, the Medium Tactile switches are also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switches have a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience. They also offer a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switches offer an accented tactility and a stepped feel, giving them a more mild tactile sensation. They also fall into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience. While the sound profile of the Medium Tactile switches is unknown, it is likely to differ from the Crystal switches due to their different design and characteristics. Ultimately, both switches offer their own subjective qualities, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and a neutral sound profile, making them enjoyable to type on. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile is the way to go. It offers a jelly-like sound signature and a medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for weight, typing experience, and sound. Whether you choose the Crystal or the Medium Tactile, both switches provide high-quality options for your mechanical keyboard.
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