TTC Bluish White vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch and prioritize an enjoyable typing experience, then the TTC Bluish White and Durock Light Tactile switches are worthy contenders. The Bluish White offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched', these switches provide a distinct tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its super gentle tactility, providing a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on the Durock Light Tactile switch delivers an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. Labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', these switches offer a different tactile experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Durock Light Tactile, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate is particularly beneficial when using RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects from both switches' polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Bluish White and the Light Tactile utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, the switches produce a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the typing experience. Both switches exhibit these sound qualities due to their shared use of nylon bottom housings.
It is worth noting that if a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housings, the characteristics of each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, understanding the composition of the top and bottom housings allows users to anticipate and appreciate the unique sound profiles and tactile sensations offered by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, one notable difference is their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less force. In contrast, the Light Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial feeling when pressing keys. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Bluish White switch has a force of 50 grams, while the Light Tactile switch requires a medium-heavy force of 67 grams. This means that the Light Tactile switch offers a more resistant and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Bluish White switch is a suitable choice. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different options catering to the preferences of keyboard users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Light Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Light Tactile switch offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the Bluish White switch.
In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most commonly seen, while 3.0 mm is on the shallow end. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the TTC Bluish White switch would be a suitable option.
On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Durock Light Tactile switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a satisfying and soothing typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level, suitable for most scenarios, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switches at home or in a work environment. It is important to note that the actual sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. The buttery nature of these switches indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the mild characteristic of the switch ensures a gentle typing experience, suited for most individuals. The Bluish White switch also falls into the category of stepped switches, which means it has a two-stage tactility, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Lastly, the switch offers a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a light typing feel and reduced friction for smooth key travel.
Similarly, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls into the same category as the Bluish White switch, providing a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. The Light Tactile switch also features a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
To conclude, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, a buttery and mild typing experience with subtle resistance, and a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, a mild typing experience with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. While each switch has its unique qualities, both offer a gentle and comfortable typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, either of these switches would be a good choice.
Conclusion
In closing, to summarize the key differences and characteristics of the TTC Bluish White and Durock Light Tactile switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, along with a snappy sound profile, the TTC Bluish White switch is a great option for you. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone, the Bluish White switch will fulfill those preferences. Furthermore, if you value a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, or polished typing experience that provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, along with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Bluish White switch excels in these areas.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, but still desire a gentle tactile experience with an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great fit for you. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work, then the Light Tactile switch is a versatile choice. Furthermore, if you value a mild and polished typing experience that provides a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Light Tactile switch delivers in these aspects.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and Durock Light Tactile switches boils down to your personal preferences in terms of bottom out force, desired typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider these factors, and you will be able to make an informed decision on which switch best suits your typing needs and preferences.
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