Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the tactile switch category. The Durock Medium Tactile is highly regarded for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown lacks any specific standout features but is still a solid tactile switch option. The Durock Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Outemu Crystal Brown does not have any specific categorization. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses that cater to different preferences, 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 Medium Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. With their similar polycarbonate top housings, users can expect to experience a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housings. The Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile. The absorption of sound by nylon plastic creates a duller and rounder sound, contributing to the overall typing experience of each switch.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown play a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While both switches offer a unique sound profile and typing experience due to their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound clarity and aesthetics from the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
Weight
The Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown switch have notable differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Outemu Crystal Brown has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. The actuation force for the Durock is unknown, but for the Crystal Brown, it is 45 grams. The Durock switch provides a heavier typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial push feel. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown offers a lighter typing experience, which is favored by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Durock being the heavier option and the Outemu Crystal Brown being the lighter option.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity suggests that users can expect similar typing experiences when using either of these switches. The consistent travel distance of 4 mm for both switches may lead to a familiar and comfortable typing sensation for those who prefer tactile switches with a moderate amount of key travel. Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer similar travel distances, providing users with a consistent typing experience.
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 Crystal 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 known for its jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is currently unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers an accented, stepped, mild, and polished experience. This means that users can expect a tactile feedback that is prominent yet balanced, providing a satisfying typing experience without being overwhelming. The smooth and refined finish of the switch also contributes to a sleek and frictionless key travel. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not available at this time.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a unique tactile experience with a jelly-like sound signature and a balanced tactile feedback. Its accented, stepped, mild, and polished qualities cater to a wide range of users looking for a satisfying typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch remain unknown, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors when choosing between these two switches to achieve similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches, you should consider the type of tactility and bottom out force that you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Outemu Crystal Brown may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Happy typing!
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