Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Dustproof Blue present two distinct options to choose from. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and soothing sound signature, offering a unique typing experience categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch from Outemu lacks a distinctive feature but falls under a different category altogether. Choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences - whether one prefers a softer touch with the Light Tactile or a more traditional feel with the Dustproof Blue. 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
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the switches. However, the differences lie in the bottom housing material, with the Light Tactile using nylon while the Dustproof Blue also employs polycarbonate for the bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. These qualities of the bottom housing material significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while both the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Blue share polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deep and full sound experience, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing feel and sound profile of mechanical switches. Whether you choose the Light Tactile or the Dustproof Blue, you can expect a tactile and satisfying typing experience thanks to the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are fairly similar. The Light Tactile has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, but both fall within the medium-heavy range. Similarly, the Light Tactile has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Dustproof Blue's bottom out force is 65 grams. These forces are also relatively close to each other, providing a consistent typing experience between the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter touch, they may lean towards the Dustproof Blue with its slightly lighter actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Tactile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. However, it is important to note that while the travel distance is the same, the tactile feedback and clickiness of the two switches vary, with the Light Tactile offering a smoother tactile bump compared to the more pronounced click of the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the type of feedback you prefer 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 Dustproof Blue 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 gentle and angelic tactility while producing a jelly-like sound signature, making it a unique and pleasant typing experience. The switch is known for its mild feel, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is described as neutral, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch's subjective qualities are not provided, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the information available, it can be inferred that the Light Tactile switch would likely provide a more subtle and refined typing experience compared to the Dustproof Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile switch is the way to go. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force and a mild feel, making it suitable for most users. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the sound and feel you prefer when making your decision between these two switches.
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