Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

Overview

When comparing the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, the key difference lies in their typing experience. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches on the market. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch from Outemu is a linear switch with no tactile bump, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any additional feedback. Each switch has its own appeal - the Light Tactile for those who prefer a mild and polished tactility, and the Dustproof Red for those seeking a straightforward and linear typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Red both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Despite their similarities in top housing material, the differences lie in the bottom housings.

In terms of bottom housing material, both the Light Tactile and the Dustproof Red utilize nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. This material choice emphasizes the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. While both switches share this characteristic, the nuances of the nylon material may lead to subtle variations in the typing experience between the two.

Overall, while the Light Tactile and the Dustproof Red share commonalities in their housing materials, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, subtle differences may arise in the sound and feel of each switch. The top housing's impact on the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing's influence on the bottom-out sound and feel contribute to the overall typing experience. These distinctions highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile, feel, and aesthetics of mechanical switches, showcasing how slight variations can lead to unique typing experiences for users.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch differ slightly. The Light Tactile has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Light Tactile requires 67 grams while the Dustproof Red needs 60 grams, indicating that the Light Tactile is also heavier when fully pressed. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, with the Light Tactile being slightly heavier overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Red switch, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Durock Light Tactile switch. Overall, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Dustproof Red switches have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. However, compared to other switches with longer or shorter travel distances, these two switches offer a moderate amount of travel for tactile and linear switches, respectively. Despite their differences in tactile feedback and operating forces, the travel distance remains consistent between the two switches. Overall, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance when using either the Durock Light Tactile or Outemu Dustproof Red switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement that appeals to both beginners and advanced users. The gentle tactility of this switch also contributes to a jelly-like sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is praised for its mild tactility, offering a gentle typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users. The switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, there is no specific information provided about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. However, it is safe to assume that the linear nature of the switch provides a consistent and smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, neutral sound profile, and polished feel, making it a versatile option for a variety of typing preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch may provide a consistent and smooth typing experience but lacks specific details regarding sound and feel qualities. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a gentle tactile feedback and a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and smooth key travel, the Dustproof Red could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more