Outemu Black vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is important to note the key differences in their characteristics. The Outemu Black switch is best known for its simplicity and straightforward linear feel. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch stands out for its captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience due to its proprietary material blend. While the Outemu Black switch may offer a more traditional linear typing experience, the Sea Glass switch provides a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness that sets it apart. Both switches have their own advantages – the Outemu Black with its straightforward linear feel, and the Durock Sea Glass with its unique typing experience and weightlessness despite its 62g bottom-out force. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Durock Sea Glass switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Black's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound profile, making it a great choice for those who want a softer and less sharp sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Black's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing provides a unique sound profile that leans towards the brighter side, offering a different typing experience compared to the Black switch.
While the top and bottom housings of these switches differ in material composition, the qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Outemu Black providing a sharper and crisper sound profile, and the Durock Sea Glass offering a more pleasant and brighter sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is clear that the Black switch is heavier overall. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Sea Glass switch ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options depending on their preference for lighter or heavier typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distance, with the Black being slightly longer than the Sea Glass. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Sea Glass with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Black with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with the main difference lying in the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the Outemu Black is known for a standard sound profile, while the Sea Glass switch produces a uniquely hollow sound signature. The sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Black switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch is renowned for its frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press characteristics. These qualities result in a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, gentle key presses, and reduced finger fatigue, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the sound of the Sea Glass switch is described as hollow, the feel of the switch is highlighted by its unique blend of frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press characteristics. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the standard sound of the Outemu Black switch or the captivating typing experience provided by the Sea Glass switch. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for different typing preferences, ensuring satisfying results for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and are looking for a switch that is known for its solid performance, the Outemu Black switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a lighter, more unique typing experience with a distinct sound signature and a range of pastel color options, the Durock Sea Glass switch could be the perfect fit. With its frictionless, feathery feel and easy-to-press actuation, the Sea Glass switches offer a comfortable and smooth typing experience that defies expectations. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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