Gateron Glory Red vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the Durock T1 present two distinct yet appealing options for different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Red, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and lighter actuation force, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize swift and uninterrupted key presses. Its pleasing travel distance enhances the overall typing experience, allowing for quick reaction times without resistance. In contrast, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that stands out for its comfortable feel and distinct mid-profile bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke. The sound of the T1 mimics the gentle patter of rain, creating a uniquely serene typing ambiance. While the Glory Red caters to those seeking speed and smoothness, the T1 is perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation while typing. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the Durock T1, notable differences emerge, particularly in their top housings. The Glory Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This property allows the nylon to absorb sound, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the Durock T1 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This stiffer plastic generates a sharper and crisper sound profile, providing a clearer and more resonant acoustic experience. Thus, the choice of top housing material significantly influences the auditory characteristics of each switch, with the nylon delivering a more muted sound versus the polycarbonate's brightness.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gateron Glory Red and the Durock T1 share a commonality in their use of nylon. The nylon bottom housing, prevalent to both models, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound signature when the switch is bottomed out. This consistency in housing material between the two switches suggests that both will exhibit similar lower-end sound qualities, which could be favored by users looking for a smooth typing experience with a rich auditory feedback. Thus, while the top housings differ and create distinct sound profiles during key releases, the shared nylon in the bottoms ensures that the fundamental acoustics remain congruent at the moment of key actuation.
Overall, the interaction between the different housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the Durock T1 showcases how both top and bottom components collectively influence the end-user experience. The nylon in the bottom of both switches harmonizes the sound output while the contrasting top materials determine the specificity of sound when a key is released. While users may gravitate towards either switch based on the auditory feedback they prefer, both can still provide a satisfying and rich tone, especially during key presses due to their common nylon bottoms. Therefore, users seeking similar results can find comfort in knowing that, despite some differences, both switches can deliver a pleasantly deep tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Red boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option, ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience during long sessions. Conversely, the T1 switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This suggests that the Durock T1 requires significantly more force to fully depress than the Glory Red, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile typing experience. While we lack data on the bottom out force for the Glory Red, it can be inferred that its lightweight nature likely results in a lower bottom out force, further differentiating it from the heavier T1 switch. Overall, if you prioritize a lighter feel for extended use, the Gateron Glory Red is the preferable choice, while the Durock T1 serves well for those who enjoy a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the Glory Red switch has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm, while the T1 offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel can significantly affect the typing experience and preferences of users. For those who favor a quicker, more responsive feel, the Glory Red's shorter travel distance is advantageous, aligning well with trends among gamers who seek faster response times. Conversely, the T1's 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial tactile feedback, appealing to individuals who appreciate a deeper and more pronounced keystroke. Thus, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Glory Red is designed for speed and responsiveness, whereas the T1 caters to those who enjoy a more traditional and robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Red linear switch tends to produce a quieter typing experience, which is characteristic of most linear switches. Their smooth keystroke means minimal audible feedback during operation, making them well-suited for quieter environments or for users who prefer discretion while typing. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a sound profile that is low-pitched and neutral. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, reminiscent of the soothing sounds of rain falling on a window. While both switches can deliver pleasant auditory experiences, the Gateron Glory Red leans towards silence, whereas the Durock T1 has a more pronounced yet mellow sound.
In terms of feel, the difference between the two switches is more pronounced. The Gateron Glory Red is known for its smoothness throughout the keystroke, offering a seamless typing experience that many users find enjoyable. Conversely, the Durock T1 is defined by its tactile feel, featuring a medium bump that provides distinctive feedback during typing. This bumped tactile response is classified as stepped, indicating a noticeable change in resistance during the keypress. The T1 also encapsulates characteristics of both being accented, offering a palpable tactile sensation without being overwhelming, and polished, which means its refined internal structure contributes to a smooth key travel. In comparison, the Glory Red prioritizes smoothness over tactile feedback, positioning it differently in the typing experience spectrum.
In summary, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Glory Red excels in providing a muted, smooth operation, ideal for those seeking a more silent experience. The T1, while still accommodating a pleasant typing experience, emphasizes tactile feedback and sound, making it more suitable for users who appreciate distinct cues during keypresses. Ultimately, your preference between these two will depend on whether you value a smooth, linear operation or a more tactile, pronounced experience with some auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a smooth and effortless keystroke paired with a lighter actuation, the Glory Red switch would be ideal, especially for gaming or extended typing sessions where fatigue could set in. Its appealing travel distance ensures a pleasant experience that allows for quick, responsive key presses without much resistance. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feel with a noticeable bump, the Durock T1 is your go-to, providing a rich typing experience reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Its medium-heavy bottom out force strikes a balance between responsiveness and feedback, making it suitable for typists who appreciate that pronounced tactile sensation. Furthermore, if you find the sound of your switches important, the Durock T1 delivers a low-pitched and neutral sound that's versatile for both home and office use, while the Gateron Glory Red is more suited for situations where a quieter atmosphere is desired. In summary, consider your typing style, whether you seek smoothness or tactility, and your environmental needs as you decide between these two outstanding switches.
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