Outemu Green vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, one may consider the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch. The Outemu Green is best known for its tactile feedback and is categorized as clicky. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is renowned for its comfortable typing experience, thanks to a medium bump when pressing down and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished, the Durock T1 offers a unique tactile feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
67g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Durock T1 switches lies in their bottom housings. The Green uses a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the T1 also uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar effect of producing a deeper and more rounded sound when typing. This similarity in bottom housing material may mean that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
However, the top housings of the Outemu Green and the Durock T1 switches are both made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches designed for RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through more effectively. With both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when using either the Outemu Green or the Durock T1 switches.
Overall, while the bottom housings of the Outemu Green and the Durock T1 switches differ in material, the similar use of polycarbonate for their top housings results in comparable sound profiles and aesthetics. The nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housings create a sharper and crisper sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting applications. Whether choosing the Outemu Green or the Durock T1, users can expect high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the Outemu Green is the heavier option. The Outemu Green switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier choice compared to the Durock T1. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Outemu Green due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, while individuals who prefer a lighter typing feel may find the Durock T1 more suitable. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on the user's preferences, providing a different typing experience based on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled before the key actuates. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Green clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, reminiscent of typewriters. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy typing experience. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile you are aiming for in your mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Green switch does not have specific descriptors provided, while the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. This means that the T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump, giving it a tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The stepped design also provides a two-stage feel, adding to the overall typing experience. The polished finish of the T1 switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall comfort of typing on this switch.
Overall, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Green switch provides a classic and loud typing experience, the T1 switch offers a more subdued and comfortable typing experience with a focus on tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a loud and clicky typing sound or a more mellow and bass-heavy sound, as well as the level of tactility you desire, either switch could be a suitable option for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a heavier switch with a satisfying clicky sound, then the Outemu Green switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a comfortable tactile feel that is reminiscent of raindrops on a window, the Durock T1 switch might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
Mentioned in this article
