Durock Light Tactile vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) are two mechanical keyboard switches, both falling under the category of tactile switches. While they share similarities in providing a satisfying tactile feedback during typing, they differ in various aspects that may influence your preference.
The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle and angelic tactility, making it a refreshing alternative to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a more mild and polished typing experience. Additionally, the jelly-like sound signature adds a unique touch to the overall typing sensation.
On the other hand, the Moyu Blacks stand out with their sharp and strong tactile feel. With a blend of PBT top and bottom housing, they provide a premium typing experience that is hard to come by. These switches feature a strong downstroke bump, but what truly sets them apart is the even sharper and stronger upstroke bump, creating a hypertactile sensation. When typing, the downstroke bump produces a satisfyingly sharp, short, snappy, and punchy sound. With their medium-heavy feel and an abrupt and accentuated bottom-out, the Moyu Blacks truly offer a distinctive and impactful typing experience.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches have different housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Moyu Black utilizes a PBT top housing, offering a more neutral sound profile that is neither very crisp nor dull. While both materials allow for the use of RGB lighting due to their translucency, they provide different auditory experiences.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Light Tactile utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switches. The nylon material is relatively softer, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder auditory profile. On the other hand, the Moyu Black uses a PBT bottom housing, which also offers a neutral sound profile similar to its top housing. This means that the impact and bottom-out sound when pressing down on the Moyu Black switch will have qualities influenced by its PBT bottom housing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite their different housing materials, both the Light Tactile and the Moyu Black switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch, it is evident that there are some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Light Tactile requires 52 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Moyu Black requires slightly less at 50 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying tactile response.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches share the same value of 67 grams. This means that regardless of which switch is chosen, typists can expect a similar level of resistance when pressing all the way down. This can be advantageous for those looking for a consistent typing experience, as they can achieve comparable results with either switch.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer lighter switches, such as the Moyu Black, as it enables them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This lighter actuation force makes it more suitable for tasks like office work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Tactile, with its slightly heavier actuation force. This can provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke.
In conclusion, while the Durock Light Tactile and Everglide Moyu Black switches differ slightly in their actuation forces, both share the same bottom out force. The decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether one prefers a slightly lighter or heavier actuation force, both switches offer a satisfying tactile response, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key equipped with either switch will result in a similar distance being traveled. In terms of travel distance, there is no distinction between the two switches as they offer identical results.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using the switches at home or work. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch provides a resonant sound experience. Typing on these switches results in a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. It creates an immersive auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most users as they fall into a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch offers an accented tactile experience. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, which is strong and crisp, providing a distinct feedback with each keypress.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a neutral sound profile and provides a mild and polished typing experience. The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch, on the other hand, offers a sharp and strong tactile feel. It features a unique blend of materials and provides a medium-heavy feel with an abrupt and accentuated bottom-out. It offers a resonant sound profile and an accented tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences. If you prefer a softer and more gentle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Light Tactile switch is a great choice. If you prefer a sharper tactile feel with a resonant sound and accented tactility, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and a mild and polished feel, providing a safe and approachable typing experience. With a neutral sound profile, this switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and stronger tactile feel with an impactful typing experience, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switch might be more to your liking. With a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, it offers a rare and premium typing experience. The Moyu Blacks feature a strong downstroke and an even sharper upstroke bump, creating a hypertactile sensation. With its medium-heavy feel and an abrupt and accentuated bottom-out, this switch provides a distinctive and satisfying typing experience. It also produces a clean and sharp resonant sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) will depend on your preference for tactility and sound. If you value a gentle and smooth typing experience with a neutral sound, go for the Durock Light Tactile. But if you prefer a sharper and more intense tactile feedback with a resonant sound, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) would be the better option. Happy typing!
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