Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Tom. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, offering a soft and smooth typing experience compared to the sharper tactile switches available. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is still a reliable choice. The Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Tom switch does not have any specific categories listed. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 main difference between the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Tom lies in their top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the top housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience of these switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the top housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a more cushioned and muted typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Tom contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housing of each switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housing allows users to feel different qualities based on whether they are pressing down on a key or releasing it. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the sound profile and typing feel that each individual prefers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Tom tactile switches, it is evident that the Light Tactile is lighter in both aspects. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Tom switch is unknown. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Light Tactile offers a slightly lighter touch compared to the Tom. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Light Tactile may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, users seeking a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Tom, despite the unknown bottom out force measurement. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Outemu Tom tactile switch's travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Light Tactile offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Tom provides a shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers for faster responses. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch to be too abrupt, opting for the longer travel distance of the Light Tactile switch for a more satisfying keystroke depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Tom 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 neutral profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and circumstances. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Tom switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its mild tactility, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground for most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, information on the feel of the Outemu Tom switch is not available, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Considering the available information, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a unique and gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various users and settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch lacks specific details on its sound and feel characteristics, making it more challenging to directly compare to the Durock Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will largely depend on personal preference and specific requirements for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Tom tactile switches, you should choose the Light Tactile if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an undefined bottom out force and are looking for a different tactile experience, the Tom switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
