Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Phoenix

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a unique experience with its gentle tactility, providing a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches offers an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch from Outemu boasts a distinct click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available today. It offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. While these general descriptions provide a good starting point, diving deeper into the specific characteristics and preferences will help you make the best choice for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

Outemu Phoenix Clicky

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which leads to similar sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings due to their translucency, making them ideal for RGB lighting. Overall, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.

However, the key difference lies in their bottom housings. The Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. While the top and bottom housings may have different sound profiles, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.

In summary, the Light Tactile and the Phoenix share similar polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is suitable for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, their bottom housings differ – the Light Tactile has a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper sound. Understanding the distinction between top and bottom housings can help users make an informed decision based on their preferred sound characteristics and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix switches, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Light Tactile requires 52 grams, while the exact force for the Phoenix switch is unknown. However, the Light Tactile can be considered lighter compared to the Phoenix, assuming it requires a higher force for actuation.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Light Tactile has a measurement of 67 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Phoenix's 62 grams. This means that the Light Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience and may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a medium-level bottom out force, which could be appealing for those who prefer a lighter typing feel.

Considering the importance of weight, the Light Tactile switch allows for a lighter typing experience with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This can be advantageous for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as in office environments or during long gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Phoenix switch with its medium actuation and bottom out forces may be the suitable choice.

In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Phoenix switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. While the exact actuation force of the Phoenix switch is unknown, the Light Tactile is lighter in comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Light Tactile is slightly heavier. Ultimately, personal preference for typing experience will play a significant role in determining which switch is the ideal choice.

Travel distance

The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The difference in travel distance between these two switches may not be significant, but it is worth noting. 4.0 mm is considered to be a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Phoenix switch is slightly shallower, which can be beneficial for gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, it is important to consider personal preference as well. Some individuals might find shorter travel distances too abrupt, while others might prefer the extra depth provided by a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Phoenix switches will depend on individual preferences and specific requirements for typing or gaming experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. The sound is described as jelly-like and angelic, providing a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound. This type of sound is commonly associated with clicky switches and resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, both the Light Tactile and Phoenix switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This indicates that both switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Light Tactile switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. With its qualities falling in a safe middle-ground zone, it is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch does not have a specific descriptor for its feel, suggesting that there might not be much information available on this aspect.

Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a unique and gentle tactility, contrasting with the commonly sharp tactile switches available in the market. Its sound signature is described as jelly-like and angelic, creating a pleasant auditory experience during typing. Moreover, with a polished finish, this switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. While there might not be specific information available regarding its feel, it also features a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches can offer satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and smoother typing experience with a more moderate actuation force, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a unique and softer tactile feedback, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and distinct typing experience with a satisfying click sound, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the way to go. Its under-skirt click mechanism provides a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. These switches are for those who enjoy a crunchy sound and desire a polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Phoenix Clicky

$4.15 per 10

Learn more