Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The medium tactile from Durock is admired for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu silent grey switches are praised for their quiet and highly tactile characteristics, offering a smooth keystroke with a pronounced bump. The medium tactile is categorized as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, while the silent grey lacks specific categorizations. Both switches have their own strengths, making them suitable choices depending on your 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 top housing of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silent Grey switches are both made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches have similar top and bottom housing materials, the impact of these materials can be felt differently depending on how the switch is used. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Despite these differences, the overall sound profiles of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silent Grey switches may still be similar due to their shared use of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that there are some similarities and differences between the two. The actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is None grams, while the Outemu Silent Grey switch has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Outemu Silent Grey switch requires a lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Durock Medium Tactile switch. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of the force needed to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be a better option, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Durock Medium Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom is consistent, resulting in a similar tactile feel and typing experience. The travel distance of 4 mm ensures a comfortable typing experience while providing a tactile feedback for each key press. Therefore, users can expect a consistent travel distance and tactile feel whether they choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the Outemu Silent Grey switch.
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 Silent Grey 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 during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is designed to offer a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is often described as accented, providing a balanced level of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch offers a noticeable bump while still maintaining a smooth keystroke. The Outemu Silent Grey switch, on the other hand, is known for its highly tactile feel, with a pronounced bump that provides a satisfying typing experience. The feel of a switch can also be affected by factors such as lubrication and spring weight.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and Outemu Silent Grey switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Durock switch provides a unique jelly-like sound and a balanced tactile experience, while the Outemu switch offers a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch could be a great choice. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard with your preferred keycaps and typing style will allow you to determine which one suits you best.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the better fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a highly tactile and silent typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Outemu Silent Grey switch might be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound, and feel to make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing experience.
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