Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, it all boils down to personal preference. The Crystal Brown is known for being smooth and responsive, while the T1 is praised for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and soothing sound akin to rain on a window. The Crystal Brown may suit those looking for a quieter switch, while the T1 caters to users who prefer a stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accentuated, and polished switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock T1, one can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness creates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for those seeking a more defined auditory experience. In terms of aesthetics, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Crystal Brown features a nylon material while the T1 also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with other materials. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material highlights how the material used in different parts of a switch can impact the overall sound and feel when typing or gaming.
While the top and bottom housings of the Crystal Brown and T1 differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The split design allows users to feel the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer similar results in terms of providing a unique and tactile typing experience for users.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch showcase some key differences. The Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the T1, which has a force that is unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Crystal Brown requires 55 grams, while the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Crystal Brown provides a more medium-light typing experience, while the T1 offers a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Crystal Brown for longer typing sessions or gaming, while individuals who appreciate a stronger push may opt for the T1 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that they both provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. While the travel distance is the same for both switches, the feel and sound of typing on each switch may differ due to other factors such as actuation force and tactile bump placement. Overall, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock T1 tactile switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
The Outemu Crystal Brown 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 T1 tactile switch stands out for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which is often likened to the sound of rain falling on a window. This type of sound is typically more bass-heavy and mellow, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not specified, so it may not have the same distinctive characteristics as the T1. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. This means that it provides a two-stage tactile sensation that is not too overwhelming nor too subtle, resulting in a comfortable typing experience. The polished finish also ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not provided, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of tactility and smoothness.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Durock T1 switch would be a great choice. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are not detailed, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel if these switches are used in the same keyboard setup. Make sure to consider your personal preferences and typing style when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider the key differences in bottom out force. The Crystal Brown offers a medium-light 55-gram bottom out force, while the T1 provides a medium-heavy 67-gram bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, smoother keystrokes, and a quieter typing experience, the Crystal Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump for better feedback while typing, and don't mind a slightly heavier key press, the T1 could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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