Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both offer unique features worth considering. The Medium Tactile from Durock stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. Categorized as ['Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', 'Polished'], this switch is ideal for those seeking a tactile option that offers a bit of flair. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch from Outemu may not have specific stand-out features mentioned, but its reliability and smooth keystrokes make it a solid choice for everyday use. While the Medium Tactile boasts a more distinct personality, the Dustproof Brown excels in versatility and consistency. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Dustproof Brown both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This material is particularly beneficial for switches with clear housing, as it allows for better light diffusion in RGB setups. While both switches share this top housing material, they may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Medium Tactile and Dustproof Brown utilize a nylon material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice can impact the typing experience, providing a different tactile feedback compared to the top housing material. Despite the shared nylon bottom housing, any differences in switch feel and sound could be attributed to the overall design and construction of the switches.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel upon key press, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing the key. This division of responsibilities between the two housing materials can create a unique typing experience for each switch, even if they share similar material compositions in different parts of their construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch, we see some differences. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it uncertain, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter actuation force, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. Users can expect similar results when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. Their equal travel distances make them both suitable options for those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a consistent 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 Dustproof 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 compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, information regarding the sound signature of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is not readily available. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having a balanced and pronounced tactility that falls in the middle ground between being overwhelming and subtle. This particular switch is often categorized as "Accented" and "Stepped," providing a tactile typing experience that is smooth and refined due to its "Polished" finish. On the other hand, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is currently unknown. However, based on the characteristics of the Durock Medium Tactile switch, we can expect a similar level of refinement and comfort in typing experience from the Dustproof Brown switch if it features similar attributes.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its unique jelly-like sound signature and balanced tactility, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While information about the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch's sound and feel qualities is not available, if it shares similar characteristics to the Durock Medium Tactile switch, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with a tactile feel that is not too overwhelming or subtle. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches, you would want to 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 enjoy a medium tactile feel that is not overwhelming or too subtle. On the other hand, you would want to choose the Outemu Dustproof Brown if you are looking for a switch with a similar bottom out force but with a different feel and sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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