Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock medium tactile and the Outemu silver mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Durock medium tactile is praised for its unique tactile feedback, offering a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu silver is a linear switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Durock medium tactile is categorized as accented, stepped, mild, polished, the Outemu silver does not have any specific categorization. Choosing the Durock medium tactile may be ideal for those seeking a tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, while the Outemu silver might appeal to those who prefer a straightforward linear switch. 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
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 housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silver are quite similar, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a stylish element to these switches. However, where the two switches differ is in the bottom housing material, with the Medium Tactile featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Silver also utilizes polycarbonate for the bottom.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Durock Medium Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silver's choice of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing may result in a more consistent sound profile throughout the typing process. While the nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, the polycarbonate housing of the Silver has a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silver share the benefits of polycarbonate for the top housing, the choice of housing material for the bottom sets them apart. The Medium Tactile's use of nylon creates a different sound profile compared to the Silver's all-polycarbonate construction. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the consistent sound profile of polycarbonate, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Silver switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the Medium Tactile's unknown grams. However, both switches bottom out at the same force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. The actuation force of the Silver switch may provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Medium Tactile switch offers a stronger push feel, appealing to those who desire a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Silver switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys move when pressed. This travel distance is considered to be standard for mechanical switches and ensures a satisfying tactile feedback for the Medium Tactile and a smooth linear feel for the Silver. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with the same travel distance, allowing users to choose between tactile or linear options based on their preference.
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 Silver 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 adds a unique touch to typing experiences. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch's sound profile is not widely discussed, making it difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is often described as having a balanced and pronounced tactility, falling into the category of "Accented" switches that provide a moderate level of tactile feedback without being too overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is sometimes referred to as a "Stepped" switch, offering a two-stage tactile feel that differentiates it from more linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch's feel remains unknown, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Durock Medium Tactile switch is praised for its balanced tactility and unique sound profile, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silver switch remain largely unknown in comparison. For newcomers looking to experience a more pronounced tactile typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile switch may be a favorable choice. However, for those who prefer linear switches or are curious about the Outemu Silver switch, further research or hands-on experience may be necessary to make an informed decision based on personal preference. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and while the exact comparison may be challenging due to limited information, similar results in sound and feel may be achieved based on individual preferences and setup configurations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the Outemu Silver switch, you should opt for the Medium Tactile if you prefer a switch with a balanced tactile feel and a jelly-like sound signature. The Medium Tactile provides a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without any scratchiness. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, you may want to go for the Outemu Silver if you prefer a switch that is smooth and straightforward without any tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility and sound when selecting between these two switches.
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