Everglide Bamboo Green vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Durock T1 are two popular options to consider. The Bamboo Green switch is renowned for its clacky sound signature, accompanied by a crisp and sparkling tactility. On the other hand, the T1 switch offers a super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. The Bamboo Green switch is characterized as 'stepped', 'high-pitched', 'accented', 'sharp', 'resonant', and 'polished', whereas the T1 switch is categorized as 'stepped', 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'accented', and 'polished'. These general observations provide a glimpse into the distinctive qualities of each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
PBT
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Durock T1 switches differ in several aspects. The Bamboo Green features a PBT top housing, which offers a neutral sound profile that is neither crisp nor dull. In contrast, the T1 has a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for integrating RGB lighting, whereas the PBT housing of the Bamboo Green lacks this feature.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Bamboo Green and the T1 use different materials. The Bamboo Green utilizes PBT for its bottom housing, resulting in a neutral sound profile. Meanwhile, the T1 employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the harder PBT.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the sound profile and aesthetic attributes of the switches. While the Bamboo Green offers a neutral sound profile with its PBT housing, the T1 switches with their polycarbonate top housing deliver a sharper and crisper sound. Furthermore, the nylon bottom housing of the T1 creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the neutral sound produced by the PBT bottom housing of the Bamboo Green. However, if similar results are desired when using these switches, it is important to consider the impact of both the top and bottom housing materials, as they contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Everglide Bamboo Green is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, both within the medium range. On the other hand, the Durock T1 has an unknown actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, leaning towards the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Everglide Bamboo Green would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively during work or for long gaming sessions. Conversely, the Durock T1 would be better suited for those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. The heavier bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying resistance that some users may find more comfortable.
Although the actuation force for the Durock T1 is unknown, it is important to note that actuation force primarily determines the force required to trigger a keystroke. In this case, since both switches fall within the medium range in terms of bottom out force, it is likely that the actuation force for the Durock T1 is also within a similar range to the Everglide Bamboo Green. Thus, those looking for a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force would potentially achieve comparable results with both switches.
In conclusion, the Everglide Bamboo Green offers a lighter typing experience with medium actuation and bottom out forces, while the Durock T1 provides a slightly heavier feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Everglide Bamboo Green and the Durock T1 tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that both switches will provide a similar tactile feel when pressed down. The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, and in this case, both switches offer a consistent 4 mm distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Everglide Bamboo Green or the Durock T1, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Bamboo Green has an MSRP of $9.67 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bamboo Green for $7.19.
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 Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and crisp sound that adds a level of clarity to each keystroke. If you prefer a more treble-focused sound over a bass-heavy one, the Bamboo Green switches are a great choice. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound. This results in a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, which can provide a soothing and calming typing experience. With its moderate actuation force requirement, the T1 is suitable for both beginner and advanced users and can be used in various environments, such as at home or at work.
In terms of feel, both the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Durock T1 switches share similar characteristics. They are both described as stepped and accented switches, offering a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Stepped switches have a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a more gentle and controlled keystroke. The accented aspect indicates that these switches offer a noticeable and prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, making typing comfortable and enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bamboo Green offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, providing a crisp and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the T1 has a low-pitched and neutral sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Regarding feel, both switches share stepped and accented characteristics, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, they both have a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Bamboo Green or the T1, you can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a medium-bottom out force switch with a clacky sound and crisp tactility, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a stepped and accented tactile feel, with a polished finish for smooth key travel. The high-pitched and resonant sound profile adds a sharp and clean auditory experience to your typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy-bottom out force switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a rain-like sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch is an excellent option. These switches also provide a stepped and accented tactile feel, along with a polished finish for reduced friction and sleek typing. The low-pitched and neutral sound profile offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Durock T1 tactile switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. Consider the clacky sound and crisp tactility of the Bamboo Green, or the rain-like sound and comfort of the T1. Both switches offer their unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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