Bsun Cliff vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two tactile options that stand out are the Bsun Cliff and the Durock T1. The Cliff is recognized for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, providing a satisfying feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 offers a distinctly comfortable typing sensation with a medium bump, evoking the soothing sound of rain falling on a window. Both switches cater to those who appreciate tactile responses, but they offer different auditory and tactile experiences that can significantly impact your overall keyboard enjoyment. While the Cliff delivers a sharp auditory feedback ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced sound during typing, the T1 offers a more muted and pleasant acoustics combined with a smooth tactile feel suitable for long typing sessions. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate as their top housing material, which plays a significant role in their acoustic profiles. As polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This consistency in materials ensures that both switches deliver a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic when RGB lighting is involved, allowing for vibrant illumination through the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar sonic characteristics and visual effects from both switches when the top housing is evaluated, making them a good choice for enthusiasts who value sound clarity and lighting aesthetics.
In contrast, while both the Cliff and T1 use nylon for their bottom housing, this choice fosters a different acoustic quality. Nylon’s softer properties lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer materials. Thus, the typing experience with these switches will elicit a rounder and a more muted sound, particularly noticeable during the actuation and bottom-out of the key presses. This shared bottom housing material means that, regardless of the top housing’s stiffer polycarbonate, both switches will deliver a consistently rich acoustic experience from the base of the switch, harmonizing the two differing sound profiles.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Cliff and Durock T1 share the same materials and thus ensure matching acoustic characteristics, the interaction between the two should not be overlooked. The polycarbonate top creates an impactful sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom enriches the auditory experience upon actuation. Both switches, despite their visual and functional differences in design, create a cohesive auditory experience that merges clarity and depth, ensuring that users can appreciate the full spectrum of sound in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that can influence user preference. The Cliff switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lightweight feel makes it ideal for prolonged use, as it minimizes finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy, but its actuation force remains unspecified. Given that the actuation force for the T1 is not provided, it is difficult to determine how it compares directly with the Cliff's actuation force. However, the significantly heavier bottom out force of the T1 indicates a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Thus, while the Bsun Cliff is the lighter option overall, the Durock T1 may offer a more robust tactile feedback for users seeking that sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we see a notable difference. The Bsun Cliff has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that some gamers might prefer for quicker key presses. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the T1 offers a deeper and more substantial key press, which may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced typing experience. Depending on your preference—either a quicker response or a more hearty depth—your choice between these two switches will influence your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp sound signature that contributes to its overall engaging typing experience. This quality makes it stand out, particularly for those who appreciate auditory feedback during their keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch presents a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, which provides a more soothing auditory experience. Though the T1 is characterized as neutral, it holds a gentle and mellow tone that can appeal to users who prefer a quieter atmosphere. Therefore, while both switches provide distinctive auditory experiences, the Cliff's crispness offers a bite that differs from the T1's low-pitched comfort.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch is known for its medium tactility, providing a satisfying feedback without being too overwhelming. This makes it suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Meanwhile, the T1 excels in delivering a comfortable typing experience marked by its stepped tactile feedback. With its two-stage feel, it allows users to enjoy a gentle bump while still experiencing a notable tactile response that is not excessively pronounced. Accented and polished qualities of the T1 further enhance its smoothness and refined overall feel, ensuring a pleasant typing experience that stands out alongside the Cliff’s more straightforward tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff and Durock T1 tactile switches each bring their own unique qualities to the table. The Cliff is characterized by its crisp sound and medium tactility, while the T1 offers a soothing low-pitched sound along with a stepped and polished tactile experience. Both switches can cater to users seeking quality typing experiences, albeit in different ways. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, choosing between these two switches will ultimately come down to whether you prioritize an engaging auditory feedback or a comforting and smooth keystroke experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter touch with a crisp sound and medium tactility, the Cliff is an excellent option, especially if you plan to use it for fast-paced typing or gaming where quick actuation is essential. The softened yet responsive feedback from the Cliff ensures that you won’t tire out your fingers during prolonged use, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. On the other hand, if you favor a sturdier feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock T1 would be ideal. The T1 is particularly well-suited for typists seeking a comfortable experience with its stepped and polished feel, providing a satisfying tactile bump without overwhelming the senses. Plus, the low-pitched sound signature adds a pleasant auditory experience that can be enjoyed both at home and in an office setting. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what you value most in your keyboard experience—be it a lighter touch for rapid keystrokes with the Cliff or a heavier, plush feel with the T1.
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