Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, and the Durock Piano, a linear switch. The Dustproof Blue is best known for its satisfying clicky feedback and tactile bump. It falls under the category of clicky switches, offering a distinctive typing experience with audible feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its smooth and silent keystrokes, thanks to its special material blend. Known for its bassy sound profile, frictionless feel, and silky keystrokes, the Piano provides a pleasant typing experience without the audible click. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Dustproof Blue and the Durock Piano both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for those looking to enhance the sound of their switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Piano features a proprietary POM blend top housing that offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the exact details of this blend are unknown, it provides a different auditory experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the Dustproof Blue comes equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Durock Piano boasts a proprietary POM blend bottom housing that offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Despite the lack of specific details on the blend, it is clear that both switches focus on enhancing sound quality through their choice of housing materials.
When considering the overall impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switches, it becomes apparent that each material brings a unique set of qualities to the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Although the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock Piano may have different housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their carefully chosen materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock Piano linear switch is not specified. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Blue is 65 grams, slightly heavier than the 63.5 grams of the Piano. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Durock Piano, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Blue. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide a different typing experience, catering to individual preferences in terms of weight and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in similar typing experiences and overall key feel. Having an equal travel distance of 4 mm makes both switches suitable for those who prefer a standard key travel distance. This allows for a consistent typing experience whether using the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch or the Durock Piano linear switch.
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 Dustproof Blue 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 Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so it may be best known for a classic clicky sound. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. Both switches will produce distinct sound profiles, with the Dustproof Blue being more crisp and tactile, while the Piano will offer a smoother and deeper sound.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Blue switch does not have a descriptor mentioned, leaving its feel open to interpretation. However, the Durock Piano linear switch is praised for its frictionless and silky feel. Users appreciate the gliding push sensation and the smooth, effortless typing experience provided by the Piano switch. While the Dustproof Blue may offer a tactile and clicky typing experience, the Piano switch will deliver a seamless and luxurious feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue is likely to provide a classic clicky sound with a tactile typing experience, while the Durock Piano will produce a deep, rich sound with a smooth and effortless feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the crisp tactility of the Dustproof Blue or the luxurious glide of the Piano switch to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches will deliver satisfying results, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a satisfying sound profile, the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless linear switch with a deep and rich sound signature, the Durock Piano switch could be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing feel you enjoy the most.
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