Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Red 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 Red offer distinct experiences for users. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch that doesn't feature any specific standout characteristics. While the Durock Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Outemu Red doesn't fall under any specific category. If you are looking for a switch with noticeable tactility and a satisfying sound, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the way to go. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Red switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is especially useful if RGB lighting is intended. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches allows for a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal choices for those looking for a distinct auditory experience.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Medium Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar deeper sound profile. This means that both switches will provide a rounder and duller sound experience when typing, thanks to the nature of the nylon material used.
While both switches share similarities in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference lies in the bottom housing material which affects the overall sound profile and feel. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Red switches are designed to offer a unique typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch differ in terms of weight. The Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it heavier than the Red which bottoms out at 62 grams. However, the actuation force of the Red is lighter at 46 grams compared to the unspecified actuation force of the Medium Tactile. In terms of typing experience, the Medium Tactile would provide a more substantial feel due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Red would offer a lighter touch for longer typing periods. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on the preference for a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys fitted with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of the amount of force required and the distance the key travels. In terms of their travel distance, both switches offer similar results and are equally suited for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.
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 Red 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
When comparing the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Red switches, the sound produced by the Medium Tactile is often noted as having a jelly-like signature, giving it a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound of the Red switch is commonly not as emphasized or described in detail. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Medium Tactile is known for its accented and stepped tactile attributes, providing a balance of tactility that is not overpowering but still noticeable. This makes typing on the Medium Tactile switch a pleasant and engaging experience. Unfortunately, specific descriptions of the feel of the Outemu Red switch are not readily available.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch, the Outemu Red is a popular option known for its smooth keystrokes. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your keyboard, so trying out different switches firsthand is always recommended to find the perfect fit for your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Red switch, you should choose the Durock Medium Tactile if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, pronounced yet balanced tactility, and a jelly-like sound signature. This switch is best for those who enjoy an accented, stepped, mild, or polished feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force without any specific tactile features or sound description, the Outemu Red switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel to ensure an optimal typing experience.
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