Durock Light Tactile vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique experiences are the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Black. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches dominating the market. Typing on the Light Tactile switch offers a heavenly tactile sensation paired with a soft, jelly-like sound. On the other hand, Cherry MX Black switches have been perfected by Cherry, featuring their new Hyperglide tooling for a textured smoothness synonymous with the Cherry brand. Typing on these switches offers a familiar deep sound profile. Categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Light Tactile switch offers a neutral and polished typing experience, while the MX Black, being low-pitched, textured, and stiff, provides a low-pitched and textured feel. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of the materials used. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing. These materials have distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Black produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, while the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the MX Black's nylon top housing focuses on a richer and more muffled sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the MX Black use nylon as the material. Similar to their respective top housing, the nylon bottom housing of these switches contributes to the overall sound profile. The nylon material's softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience for both switches. Thus, pressing down on either the Light Tactile or the MX Black elicits a similar impact, creating a noticeable bottom-out sound and feel characterized by a deeper sound profile.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Black switches differ, they share similarities in terms of the sound profile. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. However, the Light Tactile stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound, while the MX Black offers a muffled and rounder sound with its nylon top housing. Therefore, the choice between these switches will ultimately depend on one's preference for either a brighter and more distinct sound or a deeper and fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Light Tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams. This means that it will require slightly less force to trigger a keystroke on the Light Tactile switch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Light Tactile switch weighs in at 67 grams, while the MX Black is heavier at 80 grams. This indicates that the MX Black switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel.
Considering the weight of the switches, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing may lean towards the Durock Light Tactile switch. This switch would be well-suited for those using a keyboard for work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more robust and substantial typing feel may opt for the Cherry MX Black switch, which offers heavier forces for both actuation and bottoming out.
Although the forces differ between the two switches, it is possible to achieve similar results by adjusting typing techniques. Those desiring a lighter feel on the MX Black switch can train themselves to not bottom out completely, which will reduce the effective force required. Similarly, individuals using the Light Tactile switch can intentionally press with more force to approach the bottom out force of the MX Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black switch depends on individual preferences and desired typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in the typing experience, determining the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, both boast a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same 4 mm travel distance. Thus, the results obtained from typing on both switches will be similar in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on the keys.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too soft. It provides a pleasant and moderate sound that is suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a deeper sound profile when typing on them. However, 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.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. Its gentle tactility provides a comfortable feel for most users, as its qualities all fall within a safe middle-ground. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This sleek typing experience is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch is stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. This means that more force needs to be applied when pressing the keys with these switches.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Moreover, it provides a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It provides a textured feel with noticeable friction, along with a stiffer actuation force requirement. Overall, if you prefer a switch with gentle tactility, a neutral sound profile, and a polished feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and more textured sound, along with a stiffer feel, the Cherry MX Black switch would be a suitable option. In both cases, the sound and feel qualities can be complemented or further enhanced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a switch with gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile is the way to go. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. The Light Tactile also provides a mild typing experience with a polished, smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black is a great choice. It has a heavier bottom out force, which may require more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The MX Black also has a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone while typing. Additionally, it is a textured switch, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Light Tactile and Cherry MX Black depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a gentler tactility and a neutral sound profile, along with a smooth and refined typing experience, go for the Light Tactile. If you prefer a textured switch with a deeper sound profile and don't mind a heavier bottom out force, the MX Black is a solid choice. Consider your typing style, noise preferences, and the level of force you're comfortable with when making your decision. Happy typing!
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