Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch, offer distinct qualities to consider. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon and UMPE in the top housing and UMPE with a touch of Silicon in the bottom, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is praised for its comfortable typing experience, featuring a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain on a window. The Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle', while the T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own advantages, but diving deeper into their qualities will help determine the best choice for individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw uses a unique Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, while the Durock T1 opts for a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the T1 results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a crisper sound experience. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw's top housing blend provides a different sound profile that may appeal to those looking for something exclusive and distinct. Both materials have their own advantages, with polycarbonate offering a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Nylon & UPE blend may offer a more unique and personalized sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend, while the Durock T1 uses a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This can result in a duller and rounder sound compared to the UMPE & Si blend used in the Keygeek Raw. The choice between the two bottom housing materials may come down to personal preference, with nylon providing a classic sound experience and the UMPE & Si blend offering something more exclusive and potentially different.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with the overall switch experience, it's important to note that each material brings unique qualities to the table. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Keygeek Raw and Durock T1 may have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, the importance of these materials in shaping the overall typing experience remains consistent. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is apparent that the Keygeek Raw is lighter in terms of bottom out force at 57.5 grams, while the Durock T1 is heavier at 67 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but it can be assumed that they may provide a similar typing experience due to the lack of variation in this aspect. The Keygeek Raw may be preferred by individuals looking for a lighter typing feel for extended use, whether for work or gaming, while the Durock T1 may be favored by those seeking a more substantial push for a tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Durock T1 may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral profile, offering a moderate sound suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Keygeek Raw being more versatile and the T1 offering a unique, relaxing sound resembling rain falling on a window.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a textured and mildly tactile experience, with a subtle resistance that is still light and gentle while being suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped, accented feel with a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. The T1 also features a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and providing a sleek feel.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct experiences. The Keygeek Raw excels in providing a versatile sound profile and a textured, mild feel suitable for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. On the other hand, the Durock T1 stands out with its low-pitched, relaxing sound and stepped, accented tactile feel, enhanced by a polished finish for smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a creamy feel and a slightly textured typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bump and a comfortable typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Durock T1 could be the ideal option. Consider what factors such as bottom-out force, material blend, sound profile, and typing feel are most important to you, and make your decision based on what will enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
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