Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing and contrasting the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Light Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, we find two excellent options for those seeking a tactile typing experience. The Aliaz is known for its medium-heavy weight and quiet operation, making it ideal for office settings where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile offers a gentler tactility compared to other switches, providing a unique typing experience with a softer sound profile. While the Aliaz focuses on a more pronounced and substantial feel, the Light Tactile offers a smoother and softer typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Light Tactile switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. However, the Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, while the Light Tactile employs a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing, being stiffer, may provide a more defined and resonant bottom-out sound compared to the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing, which tends to create a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the top housing material in both switches, being polycarbonate, will offer similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and clarity.
In summary, while both the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Light Tactile switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their bottom housing materials differ, affecting the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a clearer and more resonant bottom-out sound, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Overall, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences for sound profile and feel based on the specific qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch with the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Light Tactile's lighter 52 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Aliaz also requires a heavier 75 grams compared to the Light Tactile's 67 grams. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Light Tactile offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Overall, while the Aliaz is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, the Light Tactile offers a more moderate force that may be preferred by users looking for a balance between lightness and responsiveness.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these two switches, it can be said that both switches offer a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience with the same amount of travel distance. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. Additionally, the matching travel distance of 4 mm ensures that both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience without any notable differences in this specific feature.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Durock Light 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 Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 sound, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. Both switches provide different acoustic experiences, with the Aliaz being quieter and the Light Tactile offering a more moderate sound level.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, providing smooth key presses and releases. Conversely, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild tactile feedback, making it approachable to a wide range of users. Additionally, both switches feature a polished finish that enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Light Tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aliaz is tailored for a quieter environment and provides a medium-heavy weight feel, the Light Tactile switch offers a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. Depending on preference, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Aliaz emphasizing a pronounced typing feedback and the Light Tactile focusing on a softer touch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel, with both options delivering reliable performance and quality.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Light Tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the environment in which you'll be using them. If you value a heavier bottom out force and a more substantial typing feedback in a quiet setting like the office, the Aliaz switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler tactility and a softer sound profile with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Light Tactile switches from Durock may be more to your liking. Both switches offer a polished and smooth typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either option depending on your preferences. Ultimately, consider your typing style, noise sensitivity, and desired tactile feel before making your decision.
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