Outemu Peach (V3) vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach (V3) and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are endless options to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out in the market are the Outemu Outemu Peach and the Durock T1. The Outemu Peach is a linear switch that offers a feather-light typing experience, thanks to its lightweight construction. What sets these switches apart is their silenced nature, making them a perfect choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying typing experience. With its medium bump and the sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, this switch is known for its comfort. Both switches offer different sensations, with the Outemu Peach being more ultra-lightweight and silent, while the Durock T1 offers a tactile feedback and audible clicks. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences the most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Outemu Outemu Peach and the Durock T1 differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles. The Outemu Peach features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the T1 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, if sound is a crucial factor, users may prefer the Outemu Peach for a deeper tone or the T1 for a brighter and more defined auditory experience. However, both switches deliver satisfactory results with their respective housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Peach and the Durock T1 employ nylon as their housing material. This consistent use of nylon ensures a similar experience when typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing on both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to their respective top housings. Nylon's softness enables it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether using the Outemu Peach or the Durock T1, users can expect a comparable sound and feel when bottoming out keys.
If the top and bottom housings vary in a switch, they will each play a distinct role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing mainly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, if the bottom housing is made of nylon, as in both the Outemu Peach and the Durock T1, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out. On the other hand, the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. The different materials used for the top housings of the Outemu Peach and the Durock T1, nylon and polycarbonate respectively, lead to differences in the sound produced when keys are released. Users may notice a duller and rounder sound with the Outemu Peach and a sharper and crisper sound with the T1.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are notable differences in their respective forces. The Outemu Peach has an actuation force of 40 grams, which is relatively light. In contrast, the actuation force of the T1 switch is unknown, so we cannot make a direct comparison. However, the bottom out force of the Outemu Peach is 50 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison.
Considering weight is crucial for choosing the right switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, such as those who require extended periods of typing for work or long gaming sessions, the Outemu Peach switch would be a suitable choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter force requirement allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes.
In contrast, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel, which provides a more substantial typing experience. For those seeking a heavier switch that requires a more deliberate keystroke, the Durock T1 would be a suitable option. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a satisfying tactile feedback, providing a sense of solidity with each keystroke.
Although we do not have the exact actuation force for the Durock T1 switch, it's worth mentioning that if the actuation force is similar to that of the Outemu Peach, both switches would deliver reliable and consistent results. With both switches requiring lighter or comparable actuation forces and having different bottom out forces, individuals seeking similar typing experiences can consider both options.
Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between these switches. Those who prioritize a lighter typing experience for extended use may find the Outemu Peach appealing, while those seeking a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the heavier bottom out force offered by the Durock T1.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Outemu Peach linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see that the Peach has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In general, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Outemu Peach switch would be a suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, the Durock T1 switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the specific experience you desire from your keyboard.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Peach linear switch offers a neutral and muted profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and produces softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The T1 tactile switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile. It features a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it different from the higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. In general, both switches offer a pleasant and comfortable typing experience in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Peach linear switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle resistance without being too feather-light. These switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented feel. It has a mild tactile bump, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. While it is not as pronounced as hypertactile switches, it still provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Like the Outemu Peach, the T1 switches also have a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have different characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Peach offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for shared spaces and minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It provides a mild and subtle typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the T1 has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It provides a stepped and accented feel, with a noticeable amount of tactility. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but with distinct sound and feel qualities. If you prefer a softer and quieter sound, along with a lightweight typing experience, the Outemu Peach may be the right choice for you. If you appreciate a low-pitched sound and a tactile feedback while typing, the Durock T1 would be a great option. However, keep in mind that individual preference plays a crucial role, and it is important to consider factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a linear switch enthusiast looking for a lightweight and silent typing experience, the Outemu Peach would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a feathery light feel that is approachable for most users. The Outemu Peach is also known for its muted sound profile, making it suitable for both home and work environments where noise levels need to be minimized.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that provides a medium bump and a comfortable typing experience, the Durock T1 is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a slightly heavier feel compared to the Outemu Peach. The T1 switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which gives a bass-heavy and mellow tone, reminiscent of rain falling on a window.
Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction for an overall sleek typing experience. Additionally, both switches are considered neutral in terms of actuation force requirement, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a light and silent linear switch, the Outemu Peach is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bump and a low-pitched sound profile, the Durock T1 would be more suitable.
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