Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Black, a linear switch. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more subtle typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches on the market. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch is known for its linear response without any tactile bump, offering a smoother keystroke with no audible feedback. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences - the Light Tactile for those who enjoy a gentle and polished typing experience, and the Outemu Black for users seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke. 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
52g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Black both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is commonly used in switches with clear housing, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Light Tactile and Black diverge in their bottom housings, with the Light Tactile utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Black also uses nylon to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similar polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housings affect the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Black's nylon housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller tone. This distinction in bottom housing material results in a variation in the tactile feedback and sound when typing on each switch.
In summary, the Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Black offer contrasting housing materials that impact the sound profile and feel of each switch. While they both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing enhances the deepness of the sound, whereas the Black's nylon housing absorbs more sound for a rounder tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile is lighter in terms of actuation force at 52 grams compared to the Black's 65 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Tactile requires 67 grams, while the Black needs 82 grams, making the Black switch the heavier option. This means that the Light Tactile switch offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be preferable for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a heavier key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch is the same, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, allowing for similar results when used. Overall, whether using the Durock Light Tactile or the Outemu Black switch, users can expect a similar travel distance and tactile feedback while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light 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 Light Tactile for $4.25.
The Outemu Black 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 qualities of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Black switches, it is evident that the Light Tactile offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its gentle tactility provides a unique typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature, adding to its appeal. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Black switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. It is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Light Tactile switch stands out for its mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle and refined typing experience. The switch provides a safe middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users, thanks to its smooth key travel and reduced friction. Conversely, details on the feel of the Outemu Black switch are unavailable, preventing a direct comparison to be made. If the Outemu Black switch is similar to the Light Tactile in terms of feel, users can expect a smooth and polished typing experience that is comfortable and satisfying.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch is praised for its gentle tactility, neutral sound profile, and mild, polished feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. While information about the Outemu Black switch is limited in this comparison, if it shares similar qualities with the Light Tactile, users can expect a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Outemu Black switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a gentler, more tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a linear switch without any tactile feedback, then the Outemu Black switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and the feel of the switch when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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