Outemu Brown vs. Durock T1

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Brown and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its neutral feel and is categorized as a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is highly praised for its comfort while typing, featuring a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Categorized as having stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished characteristics, the T1 offers a unique typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that appeal to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Brown Tactile

Durock T1 Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Outemu Brown and Durock T1 switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, high-pitched tones, and crispness. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through effectively. Despite the shared material for the top housing, the Outemu Brown and Durock T1 switches may still differ in terms of other housing components.

In contrast to the polycarbonate top housing, both the Outemu Brown and Durock T1 switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing primarily impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite utilizing different materials for the bottom housing, the nylon composition of both switches ensures a similar typing experience characterized by a more muted and satisfying sound.

Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Brown and Durock T1 switches contribute to subtle variations in sound profiles and typing experiences. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches produces a sharp and clear sound enhanced by its stiffness, the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its softer and sound-absorbing properties. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the combination of materials ensuring a balance between sharpness and depth in sound production. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Brown and Durock T1 switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and typing feel.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch to the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their differences. The Outemu Brown has a lighter actuation force of 53 grams compared to the T1, which does not specify an actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams for the Brown and 67 grams for the T1. This means that while the Brown may provide a slightly lighter feel when initially pressing the key, both switches will require a similar amount of force when fully pressing down. Some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Brown for longer typing sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the T1 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of key press feel and feedback. Overall, the travel distance of both switches allows for a comfortable and responsive typing experience, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for having a neutral sound profile, meaning it produces a moderate sound suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The T1's sound is likened to the sound of rain falling on a window, which can create a pleasing auditory experience while typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch does not have a specific feel descriptor mentioned. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. A stepped tactile switch provides a two-stage tactile experience with some pre-travel and post-travel, making it a more mild tactile switch compared to others. The accented feel of the T1 means it offers a medium level of tactility that is noticeable but not overwhelming, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the T1 results in smoother key travel with reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel.

Overall, when comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch to the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brown may provide a more neutral sound and an unspecified tactile feel, the T1 stands out for its low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling and its stepped, accented, and polished feel that offers a comfortable and refined typing experience. In selecting between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that an individual is looking for. However, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying tactile typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of tactile feedback and performance.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between Outemu Brown tactile switches and Durock T1 tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a switch that is known for its reliability without any specific standout features, then the Outemu Brown switches may be the choice for you. However, if you value a super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, then the Durock T1 switches would be a great option. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile along with a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel, the Durock T1 switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it is important to consider your typing preferences and needs when selecting between these two tactile switches.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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Durock T1 Tactile

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn more