Outemu Black vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Durock Piano both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black is best known for its linear switch design, providing a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, delivering a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a deep, creamy sound signature. While the Outemu Black may appeal to those seeking a straightforward and silent typing experience, the Durock Piano's silky and bassy characteristics make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and tactile feedback. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and the Durock Piano switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. This housing material is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to shine through. In contrast, the Piano boasts a proprietary POM blend top housing, offering a deep and satisfying sound profile. While the exact details of this blend are unknown, it is clear that POM contributes to a unique sound experience for users.
In terms of bottom housing, the Black features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. Similarly, the Piano incorporates a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing, contributing to its uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Although the specific composition of this blend remains a mystery, its impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch is evident. Both switches prioritize sound quality through their choice of housing materials.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Black and the Durock Piano switches, it is clear that each material brings distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon or a proprietary POM blend, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or a POM blend, has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Despite differences in housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and overall typing experience from both the Outemu Black and the Durock Piano switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, we see that the Black is heavier with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Piano is slightly lighter with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Piano offers a slightly lighter typing experience, which may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing feel and force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4mm from the top to the bottom. As a result, the sensation of keypress will be similar for both switches, providing a consistent typing experience. So, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer equal results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
The Outemu Black 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a specific reputation for a certain sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its bassy sound signature, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. This can be attributed to the proprietary material blend used in the Piano switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps that are used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a specific descriptor for its typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for providing a frictionless and silky typing experience. This means that users can expect an extremely smooth and effortless feel when typing on the Piano switches, with minimal resistance or friction during key presses and releases.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is clear that the Piano switch excels in both sound and feel. The deep and creamy sound signature of the Piano switch, along with its smooth and frictionless typing experience, make it a popular choice among enthusiasts. While the Black switch may not have as distinct qualities in sound and feel, users can still expect a reliable linear switch option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Durock Piano linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and value a pleasant typing experience with a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a bassy sound profile and a frictionless, silky typing experience, the Durock Piano may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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