Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Green, a clicky switch, and the Durock Piano, a linear switch. The Dustproof Green switch is best known for its durable design and resistance to dust ingress. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch stands out for its smooth typing experience, thanks to the proprietary material blend that provides a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. The Dustproof Green switch is categorized as a clicky switch, while the Durock Piano falls under the linear switch category. If you are looking for a clicky switch that offers durability, the Dustproof Green may be the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Durock Piano switch could be your ideal choice. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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 Green and Durock Piano switches both offer unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Piano switch utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing for a deep and satisfying sound profile. Despite these differences, both housing materials are designed to enhance the sound quality of the switch, making them ideal choices for those looking for a premium typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Dustproof Green uses a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Piano switch utilizes a proprietary POM blend bottom housing for a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the exact details of these blends remain unknown, it is clear that both materials are chosen for their ability to enhance the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the uniquely satisfying sound of POM blend, both switches offer high-quality options for discerning typists.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound of a switch, it becomes evident that each material plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Dustproof Green and Durock Piano switches, both switches are designed to provide a premium typing experience with their unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the deepness of POM blend, both switches offer excellent options for customizing your keyboard.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have distinct characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Dustproof Green requires an actuation force of 65 grams, providing a heavy push feel, while the Piano's actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green has a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience compared to the Piano's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Dustproof Green the heavier option between the two. The weight of a switch can significantly impact typing comfort and performance. Some prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions, while others opt for heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. Both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Dustproof Green or the Piano, you can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience across different switches, making it easier for users to adapt to different keyboards without having to adjust to varying travel distances.
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 Green 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 Dustproof Green switch does not have a specific reputation or descriptor, making it a bit of an unknown variable in this comparison. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch is known for its bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound while typing. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Green switch doesn't have a distinct characteristic mentioned, leaving its tactile feedback up to personal preference. Conversely, the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky feel. The proprietary material blend used in the Piano switch creates a gliding push sensation when typing, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. This can lead to reduced finger fatigue and increased comfort during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Green lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Durock Piano switch is praised for its bassy sound profile and frictionless, silky typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Remember to also consider other factors such as keyboard layout, keycap material, and typing style when making your decision. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches will allow you to determine which one suits your typing needs best, keeping in mind that both may offer similar results in certain aspects.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy bottom out force and a sharp, audible click with no specific sound signature preference, the Dustproof Green may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a deep, creamy sound profile, the Durock Piano would be a more suitable option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference on feel and sound when selecting the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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