Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both being tactile switches. The Durock Light Tactile stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and smoother typing experience compared to sharper alternatives. Described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this switch provides an angelic tactility paired with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown lacks any specific standout feature but is still a reliable choice for those seeking a tactile switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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 Crystal Brown switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper 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 designed for RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetic appeal and sound profile, these switches are quite similar when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Light Tactile and Crystal Brown switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Crystal Brown also uses a nylon bottom housing, showcasing similar sound characteristics. Despite their differences in top housing material, these switches share the commonality of utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to recognize that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in both the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches ensures a balanced typing experience with a unique combination of sound characteristics from each material.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile switch has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown switch. The Light Tactile switch requires 52 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Tactile switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Crystal Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide a consistent typing experience 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 Crystal 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and jelly-like sound signature, creating a unique typing experience that is both satisfying and quiet. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is unknown. Depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches can provide a pleasant auditory experience, with the Light Tactile likely offering a softer and more subdued sound overall.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its mild tactility, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no information available about the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. However, it can be assumed that the Durock Light Tactile switch may offer a more refined and polished typing feel compared to the Crystal Brown.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, quiet sound profile, and smooth typing experience thanks to its polished finish. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are unknown, it is likely that both switches would offer reliable performance and a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference, with the Durock Light Tactile switch providing a unique and refined typing experience for those seeking a gentle and quiet switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches, it really comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle, angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a more neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may be more suited to your needs. Consider your preferences in terms of tactility, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels best for your typing experience.
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