Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a clicky switch, and the Durock Piano, a linear switch, it's clear that they offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Dustproof Purple is best known for its clicky feedback, while the Piano stands out for its smooth, linear actuation. The Dustproof Purple falls into the category of clicky switches, providing a satisfying tactile response with every key press. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky', offering a quiet and seamless typing experience with a deep, creamy sound signature. Each switch has its own advantages, making them suitable for 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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 Purple and the Durock Piano both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Dustproof Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. On the other hand, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing, resulting in a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While both materials bring distinct characteristics to the switches, they ultimately cater to different sound preferences - with the Dustproof Purple offering a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Piano providing a deeper and more satisfying sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Dustproof Purple boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Piano incorporates a proprietary POM blend bottom housing, offering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile as well. Although the exact details of the POM blend are unknown, it is evident that both Nylon and POM blend bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, focusing on creating a rounder and more impactful sound experience for the user.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Durock Piano differ in material composition, each housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite their differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience through their carefully selected housing materials. Whether opting for the sharper and crisper sound of the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing or the deep and satisfying sound of the Piano's proprietary POM blend top housing, users can expect a high-quality sound experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, we find that the Dustproof Purple has a slightly lighter actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Piano's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Purple is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Piano's 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. The Dustproof Purple offers a slightly lighter feel for triggering keystrokes, while the Piano provides a slightly lighter bottom out force. Depending on preference, some may appreciate the slightly lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Purple for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly lighter bottom out force of the Piano for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of force required for typing, providing a solid typing experience for users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel as the switch moves from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch provide a similar typing experience.
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 Purple 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
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for providing a unique typing experience without a specific standout feature. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch stands out for its proprietary material blend, offering a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Purple's sound profile is not specified, while the Piano switch is described as having a bassy sound, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Purple does not have a specific descriptor, while the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky typing experience. The frictionless characteristic ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the silky attribute enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, reducing resistance both when pressing and releasing the keys. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Piano switch providing an edge in terms of smoothness and fluidity.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple lacks specific descriptors, the Durock Piano switch excels in providing a bassy sound profile and a frictionless, silky typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can deliver satisfactory results, with the Piano switch potentially offering a smoother typing experience compared to the Dustproof Purple clicky switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a satisfying tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, the Durock Piano switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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