Outemu Silent Green vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green, a linear switch, with the Durock Piano, another linear switch, it’s important to note some key differences. The Silent Green is best known for its muted characteristic and falls into the category of silent switches. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, resulting in a pleasant typing experience with a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. Categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, the Piano offers a unique typing experience. Both switches have their advantages, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. However, let’s delve deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock Piano, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Silent Green utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile that is resonant and clear. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the switch. On the other hand, the Piano features a proprietary POM blend for both its top and bottom housing, offering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Although the exact details of the blend are unknown, it is evident that the Piano prioritizes a rich and deep sound experience.
However, when it comes to the individual impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch performance, the Silent Green and the Piano differ slightly. The bottom housing of a switch, whether polycarbonate or POM blend, will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Silent Green will result in a more defined and resonant bottom-out sound, while the unique POM blend of the Piano will offer a deep and satisfying bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing of a switch, whether polycarbonate or POM blend, will influence the sound when a key is released. The Silent Green's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound when keys are let go, while the Piano's POM blend top housing offers a satisfying and deep sound profile upon key release.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock Piano may differ slightly in composition and sound profile, both switches ultimately prioritize creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Whether it be the sharp and clear sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Silent Green or the deep and satisfying sound of the proprietary POM blend in the Piano, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch. Additionally, the individual impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch performance highlights the attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into designing these mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Silent Green has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Piano switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Silent Green switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Piano switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a balanced combination of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of varying preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar level of travel distance before the key bottoms out. As a result, in terms of travel distance, you can expect comparable performance from both switches. Whether you choose the Outemu Silent Green or the Durock Piano, you can enjoy a consistent and satisfying key press experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Silent 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 Durock Piano linear switch is known for its deep and creamy bassy sound profile, offering a rich and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch in terms of sound are unknown. It is important to consider that the sound of a switch is influenced not only by the switch itself but also by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Piano linear switch is praised for its frictionless and silky typing experience, providing users with a smooth and effortless feel when typing. This translates into a gliding push sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch in terms of feel are not specified. It is worth noting that the typing feel of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience and user satisfaction.
In conclusion, while the Durock Piano linear switch is recognized for its pleasant sound and smooth feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch remain unspecified. If you are aiming for a similar typing experience to the Durock Piano, considering factors such as switch material, housing, and keycaps can help you achieve a comparable result with the Outemu Silent Green. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for each individual user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound and feel profiles. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Silent Green may be more suitable with its 60-gram force. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for added stability, the Piano with its 63.5-gram force may be a better choice. If you prioritize a deep, creamy sound profile, the Piano's bassy characteristics may be more appealing. Additionally, if you enjoy a frictionless and silky typing experience, the Piano's unique material blend provides a smooth and effortless feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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