Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note the key differences between the two. The Dustproof Brown switch is best known for its durability and resistance to dust, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize longevity in their keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is renowned for its exceptional typing comfort, with a medium bump and a soothing rain-like sound when pressed. While the Dustproof Brown falls into a neutral category, the T1 is categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and typing 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock T1 in terms of housing materials lies in their bottom housings. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Dustproof Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch - the Dustproof Brown offers a more rounded sound due to the softer nylon, while the T1 delivers a crisper sound because of the stiffer polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both switches share similar characteristics in their top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of both the Dustproof Brown and the T1 contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making them ideal for users who prefer a sharper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the typing experience. So, if you are looking for a switch with a consistent and distinct sound, either the Dustproof Brown or the T1 with their polycarbonate top housings would be a suitable choice.
In summary, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock T1 ultimately boils down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the Dustproof Brown with its nylon bottom housing would be the better option. On the other hand, if you lean towards a sharper and crisper sound, the T1 with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing would be more fitting. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Dustproof Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the T1's unknown actuation force, making it more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dustproof Brown at 65 grams and the T1 at 67 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of pressure required to fully press the keys. Overall, the Dustproof Brown may be favored for its lighter actuation force, while the T1 offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch is the same at 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be identical, resulting in a similar typing experience. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and smooth actuation due to their equal travel distances. Whether you choose the Outemu Dustproof Brown or the Durock T1, you can expect a consistent typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Dustproof 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch is praised for its low-pitched and neutral tones, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary when it comes to sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock T1 is appreciated for its stepped, accented, and polished qualities, providing a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and smooth key travel. In contrast, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch in terms of feel are not specified. The Durock T1's stepped design offers a two-stage tactile feedback, while the accented tactility strikes a balance between being noticeable yet not overpowering, contributing to an overall refined typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Durock T1 tactile switch is praised for its comfortable typing experience with low-pitched sound and stepped, accented feel, the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch in terms of sound and feel remain unknown. As both switches offer tactile feedback, it can be inferred that users may achieve similar results in terms of tactile feel, but individual preferences regarding sound and feel may differ. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as typing style and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Durock T1 tactile switches, it's important to consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown with 65 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force, the T1 with 67 grams could be a better choice. Additionally, if you prioritize a switch known for comfort and a medium bump sensation, the T1 is highly praised for its typing experience. However, if sound is a deciding factor for you, with the Dustproof Brown having a quieter profile compared to the T1's low-pitched and neutral sound. In terms of feel, the T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished experience, while the Dustproof Brown's feel characteristics are not specified. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and key feel.
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