Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The light tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more pleasant typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. On the other hand, the cream pink from Outemu is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. While the light tactile switch is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the cream pink does not fall under any specific categories. When choosing between these switches, one might opt for the light tactile for its unique and softer tactile feedback, while the cream pink could appeal to those who prefer a linear and consistent typing feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience for users. While the bottom housing may not be visible during use, its impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch cannot be understated.
However, the Light Tactile sets itself apart with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Pink utilizes nylon for its top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound but with a slightly different tone than the Light Tactile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switch that the Cream Pink may not have.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the different top housing materials offer distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer the crisper and sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Light Tactile or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Cream Pink, both switches are designed to provide a unique typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Light Tactile being slightly heavier at 52 grams actuation and 67 grams bottom out compared to the Cream Pink's 50 grams actuation and 65 grams bottom out. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Cream Pink to be slightly more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Light Tactile might be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more feedback and resistance when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer a good balance between actuation force and bottom out force for a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent tactile or linear response with comparable distances for a satisfying typing experience. The equal travel distance of these switches allows for similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback, making them both suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific tactile or linear typing experience.
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 Cream Pink 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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is unavailable. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is characterized by its mild tactility, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is not provided.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and angelic touch, along with a neutral sound profile and a polished typing experience. While the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch may offer different qualities, it is important to consider personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on the individual's preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink switch, you should choose the Light Tactile if you prefer a gentle and unique tactility with a medium-heavy bottom out force. The Light Tactile offers a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lower bottom out force, the Cream Pink might be a better choice for you. Keep in mind that the Cream Pink lacks detailed descriptions of its sound and feel, so you may need to try it out for yourself to see if it meets your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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