Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Durock T1 offer unique experiences for users. The Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying click sound with each press. On the other hand, the T1 is a tactile switch, known for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Spring Breeze offers a clicky feedback, the T1 provides a tactile feel that some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Outemu Spring Breeze and the Durock T1 both use nylon for their bottom housing, which means that typing on switches using either of these housings will elicit a similar deep and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in the bottom housing material suggest that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel when using switches with either of these housings.
In contrast, the top housings of the Spring Breeze and the T1 differ significantly, with the Spring Breeze featuring a nylon top housing and the T1 boasting a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the T1 switches that is not present in the Spring Breeze. Overall, the top housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound characteristics of a switch, and the choice between nylon and polycarbonate can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
While the bottom housings of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Durock T1 are the same, the top housings showcase the differences in sound profiles that nylon and polycarbonate can offer. The split qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switch mean that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether one prefers the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Spring Breeze and the T1 offer distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see some significant differences. The Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the T1 has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Spring Breeze for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the T1 for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, so you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel. The consistency in travel distance between these two switches makes them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience.
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 Spring Breeze 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 Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch provides a sound profile that is known for being crisp and satisfying, with a distinct clicky noise that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, reminiscent of rain falling on a window, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Spring Breeze emphasizing the clickiness and the T1 focusing on a more subdued and calming sound.
In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze switch's tactile feedback is not specifically mentioned. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch is praised for its comfort, featuring a medium bump when pressing down. The T1 is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience. While the exact feel of the Spring Breeze switch remains unknown, the T1's qualities suggest a tactile switch that offers a satisfying medium bump and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch stands out for its distinctive clicky sound profile, while the Durock T1 tactile switch excels in providing a comfortable and tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain. For those seeking a clicky switch with a satisfying sound, the Spring Breeze is a solid choice. On the other hand, if comfort and a medium bump are priorities, the T1 offers a tactile experience that is both pleasurable and calming. Both switches have their own unique qualities, but ultimately, the choice between them will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy a light and clicky typing experience, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch with its 55g bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a noticeable bump, the Durock T1 switch with its 67g bottom out force could be more suitable. When considering sound, the Spring Breeze provides a unique clicky sound, while the T1 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze is smooth with a satisfying click, while the T1 provides a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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