Zuoce Lavender vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Zuoce Lavender and Durock Light Tactile offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Zuoce Lavender is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its exceptional smoothness and satisfyingly crisp and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and angelic feel, providing a softer typing experience compared to other tactile switches. While the Lavender is best suited for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a distinct sound profile, the Light Tactile is ideal for individuals who enjoy a neutral and polished typing experience. 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
48g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Light Tactile both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Lavender features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience, with the POM housing offering a more subdued sound compared to the more vibrant sound produced by the polycarbonate housing.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Lavender's POM housing provides a deep and unique sound profile, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing providing a softer and more absorbing sound compared to the POM bottom housing. The combination of these different housing materials on each switch results in a varied typing experience, with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
While the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Light Tactile feature contrasting housing materials, the impact of these materials on the typing experience is similar in terms of providing unique sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a combination of qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile or the softer nylon bottom housing of the Lavender, each housing material brings its own characteristics to the switch, offering users a range of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch differ in weight, with the Lavender being lighter and the Light Tactile being heavier. The Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Lavender may be more appealing to those looking for a smoother typing experience over extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Light Tactile provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Light Tactile switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Lavender switch. A difference of 0.6 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Lavender switch may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers who need quick key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Light Tactile switch may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky and crisp sound signature, adding a satisfying tactile feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate each key. This results in a smooth and effortless typing experience, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactility that falls in a safe middle-ground zone for most users. The smooth key travel provided by the polished finish enhances the overall typing feel.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its smoothness and clacky sound signature, making it a great choice for those seeking a tactile and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offers a gentle tactility and neutral sound profile that caters to a wide range of users. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience with their unique qualities. Whether choosing the Lavender or Light Tactile, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that will enhance your typing pleasure.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Lavender switch if you prioritize smoothness and a clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press feel. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a light actuation force and a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch is a great choice for individuals looking for a gentler tactility and a more neutral sound profile. Its mild feel and polished finish make it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
Mentioned in this article
