Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Mini i both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Light Tactile is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more subtle typing experience compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches are known for their lightweight build and quiet sound profile, making them perfect for office settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Durock Light Tactile leans towards a gentler touch while the Gateron Mini i strikes a balance between feedback and noise reduction. 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
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. However, the Light Tactile stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material may result in a more resonant sound when pressing down and releasing a key on the Light Tactile compared to the Mini i.
In terms of aesthetics, the Durock Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing offers a translucent look, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal when it comes to incorporating RGB lighting. Despite this, both switches offer a unique sound experience with their housing materials, with the Light Tactile providing a clearer and sharper sound, thanks to the polycarbonate top housing, while the Mini i offers a duller and rounder sound due to its nylon top housing.
While the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. The Durock Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, creating a more resonant and crisp sound. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. This difference in top housing material showcases how the choice of material can greatly influence the overall typing experience on each switch.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Light Tactile requires 67 grams while the Mini i requires 50 grams. This makes the Mini i the lighter option, perfect for those looking for a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile is heavier, providing a more substantial push feel for those looking for a more solid typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to users with varying preferences for actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Light Tactile switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Mini i switch provides a shorter travel distance, which is ideal for gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so selecting one over the other will depend on personal preference. Ultimately, the Light Tactile switch offers a longer travel distance while the Mini i switch offers a shorter travel distance, catering to different user preferences and typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Mini i switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or in a work environment. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its mild and polished characteristics. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, while a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities provide a lively, effortless, gentle, responsive, gentle resistance, and two-stage tactile feel to enhance the typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Mini i switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Durock Light Tactile provides a gentle and polished typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature, the Gateron Mini i offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel with a subtle sound profile. Depending on your preference for typing experience and sound, you can achieve satisfying results with either of these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Mini i tactile switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a softer, more refined tactile feel with a smooth keystroke and a gentle sound profile, the Light Tactile from Durock may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a bouncy, easy-to-press switch with a responsive and low-impact typing feel, the Gateron Mini i could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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