Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, some key differences stand out. The Aliaz switch is renowned for its suitability in quiet environments like offices due to its silent design. It offers a medium-heavy weight that imparts a substantial feel to each keystroke, appealing to users who seek pronounced typing feedback without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch is highly regarded for its exceptional typing comfort, featuring a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Aliaz is characterized as 'Silky,' 'Muted,' and 'Polished,' the T1 is labeled as 'Stepped,' 'Low-pitched,' 'Neutral,' 'Accented,' and 'Polished.' Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
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
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock T1 switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting. This results in a similar sound and visual experience for both switches due to their shared top housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The Gateron Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Durock T1 utilizes nylon for this component. The nylon bottom housing of the T1 contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz may lead to a crisper and more impactful bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock T1 may come down to personal preference based on the sound and feel desired from the switch. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top and bottom housing combination may provide a more consistent and clear sound profile throughout typing. In contrast, the T1's use of nylon for the bottom housing could result in a deeper and fuller sound experience, particularly during typing sessions. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, ultimately providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the Aliaz is the heavier option between the two. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the T1 has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the T1 might be the better choice. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but users will need to consider their preference for actuation and bottom out force when making a decision.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that the typing experience will be comparable in terms of keypress feel and feedback. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Aliaz or the Durock T1, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 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.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch offers a muted experience, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch produces a low-pitched sound that resembles rain falling on a window, creating a soothing auditory experience. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile suitable for various settings, but the Aliaz focuses on minimizing noise, while the T1 offers a more bass-heavy tone.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Aliaz switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth key presses with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a mild tactile sensation with distinct stages during key presses. Both switches feature a polished finish for a refined typing experience, but the Aliaz emphasizes a smooth and resistance-free feel, while the T1 delivers a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz and Durock T1 switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz excels in providing a quiet and subtly tactile typing experience with its muted sound and silky feel, making it suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the T1 offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with its low-pitched sound and accented feel, creating a comfortable typing sensation reminiscent of rain. Ultimately, both switches deliver exceptional performance in their respective areas, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock T1 tactile switches, you should consider your environment and typing preferences. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a heavier keystroke with a muted sound, the Aliaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value comfort, enjoy a medium bump with a low-pitched sound similar to rain falling on the window, and prefer a more stepped and accented tactile feel, then the Durock T1 might be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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