Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock light tactile and the Outemu cream yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both belong to the tactile switch category. The Durock light tactile stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a smooth typing experience that is different from sharper tactile switches. Described as neutral, mild, polished, this switch provides an angelic tactility with a unique jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu cream yellow, while lacking specific features, falls into the tactile switch category as well. When choosing between the two, one might prefer the Durock light tactile for its gentle tactility and smooth typing experience. However, let's delve 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 terms of housing materials, the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Yellow differ significantly. The Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize a clear, resonant sound. In contrast, the Cream Yellow features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. The nylon absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users who enjoy a softer typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the Cream Yellow use nylon, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The classic switch housing material of nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying for users looking for a quieter typing experience. Overall, while the top housing of a switch may have a significant impact on sound quality when keys are released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, providing a balanced typing experience.
Although the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Yellow differ, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile produces a sharper, crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow creates a deeper, fuller sound. Similarly, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in a consistent typing experience with a focus on absorbing sound for a quieter overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a clear, resonant sound or a dull, round sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your preferences.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow switch's 45 grams, making the Cream Yellow the lighter option. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Light Tactile requiring 67 grams and the Cream Yellow requiring 60 grams. This means that while the actuation force may differ slightly between the two switches, the bottom out force is comparable, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the amount of force required to fully press the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel or a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm compared to the Light Tactile's 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Cream Yellow for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Light Tactile. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, so regardless of the travel distance, users can expect similar feedback and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Yellow 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
The Durock Light Tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature, creating a pleasing sensation for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to compare in terms of auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Light Tactile switch is described as mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that is gentle on the fingers. This makes it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of users. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Cream Yellow switch is not available, making it challenging to assess its tactile properties.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a gentle and polished feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a solid choice. However, if the sound profile and feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch align with your preferences, you may achieve similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches, it is important to consider your personal preference for tactility and bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactile experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a gentle tactility or a more standard medium feel. Choose wisely based on your typing preferences and needs.
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