Outemu Tom vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, each offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The Tom switch is well-known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump during key presses. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock is distinguished by its captivating pastel colors and proprietary material blend that offers a dry, wispy typing experience while maintaining smoothness. The Tom switch falls under the category of tactile switches, offering a more pronounced tactile response, while the Sea Glass switch is categorized as a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the Durock Sea Glass, it is clear that they both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Tom's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a brighter and more pleasant sound. The difference in materials results in a distinct auditory experience for users, with the Tom providing a crisper sound and the Sea Glass offering a more rounded tone.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Tom's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, while the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing contributes to a brighter sound profile. The contrast between the two materials is evident in the sound produced when typing on these switches, with the Tom offering a more muffled and rounded sound, while the Sea Glass provides a clearer and brighter tone.
While both switches feature different materials for their top and bottom housings, it is important to note that each material brings its own unique characteristics to the overall sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. Users can expect a nuanced and varied typing experience based on the combination of materials used in the housing of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Tom requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sea Glass with 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Sea Glass at 62 grams is heavier than the Tom's unknown value. The Tom provides a tactile typing experience with a heavier actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial keypress, while the Sea Glass offers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different experiences based on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces. If similar results are desired, selecting the lighter option would provide a comparable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm. In this case, the Sea Glass has a longer travel distance compared to the Tom. The Tom's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Sea Glass's longer travel distance may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of quality and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
The Outemu Tom 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 Tom switch is known for its quiet operation, allowing for a more stealthy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch produces a uniquely hollow sound signature, which can add a satisfying auditory element to your typing sessions. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch offers a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump at actuation, providing tactile feedback to the user. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a feathery lightness to key presses. These qualities make the Sea Glass switch comfortable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue. Overall, both switches provide unique typing experiences with their own distinct characteristics.
In conclusion, the Outemu Tom switch and Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer different subjective qualities to cater to different preferences. The Tom switch provides a tactile typing experience with a quiet operation, while the Sea Glass switch offers a smooth and frictionless feel with a distinct hollow sound. Whether you prefer the satisfying bump of a tactile switch or the effortless glide of a linear switch, both options provide a high-quality typing experience that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light actuation force and a unique hollow sound signature, the Outemu Tom switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, a smooth and frictionless typing experience, and pastel colors that stand out, then the Durock Sea Glass switch would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Tom and the Durock Sea Glass switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose carefully based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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