Durock Medium Tactile vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Medium Tactile stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Cream Pink is a linear switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Medium Tactile offers a satisfying tactile feedback, the Cream Pink provides a smooth linear typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a noticeable tactile bump, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the way to go. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink keyboards differ in terms of their top housing. The Medium Tactile uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Pink utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials have their distinct qualities, polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clarity in sound, while nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller tone.
In contrast, both the Medium Tactile and the Cream Pink keyboards use nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both keyboards. Despite both having nylon bottom housing, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel can vary between the two keyboards. However, the similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either keyboard.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink keyboards plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing creates a clearer and resonant sound, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both keyboards share nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Understanding how different materials impact sound and feel can help users make an informed decision when choosing between these two keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is clear that the Medium Tactile has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Cream Pink's 50 grams. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch while typing for extended periods of time, the Cream Pink may be the more favorable option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, users looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Medium Tactile despite its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth and feedback. Users can expect to feel a tactile bump on the Medium Tactile switch and a smooth keystroke on the Cream Pink switch, with both switches requiring the same amount of force to actuate. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is equal, making them suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
The Outemu Cream Pink 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 the subjective qualities of sound, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is praised for its jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound qualities of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is lauded for its accented tactility, offering a balanced tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it a comfortable choice for extended typing sessions. Additionally, it features a stepped feel, providing a smooth keystroke with distinct stages. The Cream Pink linear switch, unfortunately, lacks specific descriptions regarding its tactile feel.
Overall, while the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch showcases distinct sound and feel characteristics, the information available for the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is limited. However, it is important to remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch. If you enjoy a pronounced but balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be a suitable option. If looking for a linear switch, additional information or personal testing may be required to determine if the Outemu Cream Pink aligns with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Outemu Cream Pink switches, you should consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth key travel, then the Outemu Cream Pink would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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