Jerrzi Orange vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Jerrzi Orange and the Durock Light Tactile. The Jerrzi Orange stands out as a clacky linear switch, offering a lightweight feel and crisp, audible feedback with each keystroke. This makes it a lively choice for those who enjoy a responsive and vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile is known for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more subdued typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. While the Orange switch is feathery and easy-to-press, the Light Tactile switch is neutral and polished. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Durock Light Tactile, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate provides a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for switch housings that prioritize visual appeal.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Jerrzi Orange utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, allowing for the same deep and full sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
Overall, the differences between the Jerrzi Orange and the Durock Light Tactile lie primarily in their bottom housing materials, as both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. While the nylon bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the impact of this material on the typing experience varies slightly between the two switches. Ultimately, keyboard enthusiasts can choose between the Jerrzi Orange and the Durock Light Tactile based on their preferences for sound and feel, knowing that both switches offer similar results in terms of top housing material.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile switch is heavier in both aspects. The Jerrzi Orange switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, making it a heavier option. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Light Tactile switch is 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, compared to the unavailable bottom out force for the Orange switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Jerrzi Orange switch may be more suitable, while the Durock Light Tactile switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel during typing for a more substantial experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it becomes apparent that the Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Orange's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, while the Light Tactile's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Orange linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and percussive noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offers a more neutral sound, providing a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The different sound signatures of these switches cater to varying preferences, with the Orange switch offering a livelier and more audible experience compared to the milder sound of the Light Tactile switch.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactility that is approachable to most users. The smooth and refined finish of the Light Tactile switch ensures a comfortable and sleek typing feel, while the Orange switch's light actuation force enhances responsiveness and comfort during typing sessions.
Overall, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a clacky and light typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a lively and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and polished typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether one prefers a more audible and feathery typing experience (Orange) or a neutral and polished feel (Light Tactile).
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a clacky and lightweight typing experience versus a gentle and angelic tactility. If you enjoy a lively and responsive typing feel with crisp feedback, the Jerrzi Orange switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and polished finish, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.