Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out in the market are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Durock Light Tactile. The Ginger Milk switch is best known for its soft and pastel attributes, both in appearance and typing experience. With a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile, it falls under the category of 'Neutral' and 'Buttery' switches. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a refreshing change from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Its gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, create a delightful typing experience. The Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own appeal, providing users with different typing sensations. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Durock Light Tactile share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic results when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Ginger Milk and Light Tactile differ in material. The Ginger Milk utilizes nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Light Tactile also employs nylon for its bottom housing, which means users of this switch can also expect a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is especially noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, adding to the overall typing experience.
While the top housing materials are the same for both switches, and thus offer similar outcomes, the split between the top and bottom housing allows users to experience the distinct qualities of each material. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing material allow users to have a customizable typing experience, catering to their individual preferences and sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. However, the Ginger Milk is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. On the other hand, the Light Tactile requires a slightly stronger push, as it has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ginger Milk would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Ginger Milk is also relatively lighter, providing a more gentle keystroke experience.
For those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push, the Light Tactile would be a better option. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it offers a more pronounced tactile feedback and requires a bit more effort to trigger keystrokes. This can be ideal for individuals who desire a more satisfying and responsive typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches provide a medium-heavy weight, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces can impact the overall typing feel. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier touch, both switches can deliver comparable results and enhance the typing experience accordingly.
Travel distance
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Light Tactile has a slightly longer distance compared to the Ginger Milk's, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper press. However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ginger Milk being on the shorter end and the Light Tactile being closer to the average. If you prioritize faster response times and a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Ginger Milk's shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial and satisfying key press, the Light Tactile's longer travel distance may be more fitting. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and individual typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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, both the Ginger Milk and Light Tactile switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound. The Ginger Milk switch is described as having a muted and snappy sound profile, while the Light Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Ginger Milk switch is described as buttery. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch is described as mild and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced tactile characteristics. The polished finish of the Light Tactile switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience with their respective qualities. The Ginger Milk switch offers a soft and pastel typing experience, while the Light Tactile switch provides an angelic tactility. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two, as the Ginger Milk switch is buttery in feel, while the Light Tactile switch is mild and polished. If you enjoy a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Ginger Milk switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle typing experience with reduced friction, the Light Tactile switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, it is clear that both the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch have their own unique qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles.
If you prefer a softer and pastel typing experience, the Ginger Milk switch is the way to go. It offers a silky smooth and approachable push feel, accompanied by a muted and snappy sound profile. The Ginger Milk switch is also described as having a neutral sound and a buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle tactility, the Light Tactile switch from Durock is the better choice. It offers an angelic tactility that is a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches in the market. When typing on the Light Tactile switch, you can expect a jelly-like sound signature. The Light Tactile switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel, providing a safe and middle-ground typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a linear switch with a softer and pastel typing experience, the Ginger Milk switch is the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a more gentle and polished feel, the Light Tactile switch will be more suitable. Take into consideration the qualities of each switch and choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences.
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