Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock medium tactile and the Outemu brown mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note some key differences. The Durock medium tactile is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu brown does not have any specific standout features mentioned. The medium tactile is categorized as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, while the brown does not fall into any specific categories. If you prioritize a unique tactile feel and sound profile, the Durock medium tactile may be the better option for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a clearer and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, they differ in their bottom housings.
The Durock Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics and typing experience as the Medium Tactile. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent sound profile and typing feel between the two options.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Brown switches provides a unique sound experience for users. While the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether opting for the Durock Medium Tactile or Outemu Brown, users can expect a mix of sharp, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top and a deep, fuller sound from the nylon bottom, resulting in an overall satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Medium Tactile switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Brown switch. The actuation force of the Medium Tactile is None grams, while the Brown switch has an actuation force of 53 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which puts them in the medium-heavy category. The Medium Tactile switch offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by users who tend to type for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch provides a stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Brown tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium Tactile for $4.25.
The Outemu Brown 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 Medium Tactile switch is often praised for its jelly-like sound signature, which can provide a unique and pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Brown switch are not well-documented, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile is described as offering a balanced yet pronounced tactile feedback that falls into the category of accented, stepped, mild, and polished. This means that the switch provides a tactile experience that is noticeable but not overpowering, with a smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, there is limited information available on the specific feel of the Outemu Brown switch, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its unique tactile feel and jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the specific sound and feel of the Outemu Brown switch remain less defined, it is likely that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, especially if they prefer a tactile switch with a balanced and pronounced tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Brown tactile switches, you should choose the Durock Medium Tactile if you are looking for a switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. This switch is best for those who prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a switch that is not overwhelming in its tactility. On the other hand, if you are in need of a switch that offers a more gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, the Outemu Brown tactile switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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