Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Brown. The Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and smoother typing experience compared to other tactile switches on the market. With a neutral, mild, and polished feel, this switch is categorized as providing a pleasant tactile experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch doesn't have any standout features but is still considered a reliable tactile switch. It is categorized as basic, lacking any specific defining characteristics. While the Light Tactile may appeal to those looking for a softer tactile experience, the Outemu Brown can be a solid choice for those simply seeking a standard tactile switch. However, let's dive a bit deeper into the specifics so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Light Tactile has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Brown's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The split between the top and bottom housings in switches with different materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the key press. While both the Light Tactile and the Brown offer the sharp and high-pitched sound profile associated with polycarbonate top housings, the nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Brown's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Brown showcases the impact of housing materials on the sound profile of mechanical switches. While both switches share similar qualities derived from their polycarbonate top housings, the use of nylon in the Light Tactile enhances the depth and resonance of the sound produced during typing. Understanding the role of different housing materials in switches is crucial for selecting the ideal switch for individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch are quite similar, with the Light Tactile being slightly lighter in both aspects. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Some may prefer the Light Tactile for its slightly lighter touch, while others may find the Brown to provide a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Brown tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar feeling of key travel. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile bump during actuation, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, the travel distance of the Light Tactile and Brown switches is the same, resulting in similar typing experiences for users.
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 Brown 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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or seasoned enthusiasts. The gentle tactility of this switch pairs well with its jelly-like sound signature, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The gentle tactility of this switch, combined with its smooth and refined finish, offers a comfortable and approachable typing experience for most users. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is not provided. The lack of details makes it difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and unique sound profile, making it a good option for those seeking a softer typing experience. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Brown tactile switch are unknown, it is important for newcomers to consider factors such as typing preferences and intended usage when choosing between different mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience, but users may prefer the Durock Light Tactile switch for its distinct qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that offers a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be the way to go. This switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work. On the other hand, if you are interested in a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a more polished and mild typing experience, the Outemu Brown tactile switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Brown switches will depend on your preference for tactility, sound, and feel.
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