Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock light tactile and the Outemu dustproof silent ocean mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The light tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a smooth typing experience with a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the dustproof silent ocean switch remains silent during operation, offering a quiet typing experience. While the light tactile switch is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the dustproof silent ocean switch lacks specific categorization. Each switch has its own advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile and Dustproof Silent Ocean switches differs in that nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in the nylon bottom housings provide a unique typing experience for each. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in sound qualities can affect the overall typing experience and preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Light Tactile providing a sharper and crisper sound profile while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant typing experience or a softer, rounder sound, each switch has its own strengths to consider when customizing your mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 67 grams and 65 grams respectively, making them fall into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dustproof Silent Ocean, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Tactile. Ultimately, the weight of the switches plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more satisfying push feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Durock Light Tactile switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. The longer travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile switch may provide a more satisfying depth when typing, while the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Ocean 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral experience with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle tactility compared to more pronounced switches. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, creating a sleek typing experience. As for the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, information about its feel is currently unavailable.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch is characterized by its gentle tactility, jelly-like sound signature, neutral sound profile, mild feel, and polished finish. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch are not fully known, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch could be more aligned with your preferences. Consider factors such as sound profile, actuation force, and typing feel when making your decision. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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