Durock Light Tactile vs. Cherry MX Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference. Two popular options in the tactile switch category are the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Brown. The Durock Light Tactile is known for its gentle tactility, providing a pleasant typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown offers a subtle tactile feedback and a relatively light typing experience. While the Light Tactile is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the MX Brown is described as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own unique features and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Brown switches have distinct differences. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, generating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the two switches differ in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetic compatibility with lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as the material. This classic housing option contributes to a deep and full sound when typing on either switch. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs sound better than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom housing of both switches provides similar sound profiles, emphasizing the richness of the typing experience.

In terms of functionality, the choice of housing material in the top and bottom housing of a switch has specific impacts. The Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound when the key is released, while the bottom housing of both switches influences the sound and feel upon bottoming out. By having different housing materials for the top and bottom, the two switches can achieve a unique balance of characteristics depending on whether you're pressing down or releasing a key. Ultimately, while the Light Tactile and MX Brown differ in their top housing materials, they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, leading to comparable results in terms of typing experience and sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Durock Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams, which is slightly heavier than the MX Brown's 45 grams. This means that the Durock Light Tactile requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile is also heavier at 67 grams compared to the MX Brown's 55 grams. This indicates that typing on the Durock Light Tactile switch will provide a more substantial and resistant typing experience. In contrast, the MX Brown offers a lighter feel for those who prefer a smoother and less demanding typing experience. While both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, the Durock Light Tactile tends to be slightly heavier overall. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions may find the MX Brown more suitable, while those desiring a more substantial and responsive feel may prefer the Durock Light Tactile.

Travel distance

The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, allowing you to feel the actuation point. Whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile or the Cherry MX Brown, you can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral profile sound. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This means that it offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.

In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild tactile feedback offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured, which means it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.

Based on the available information, the Durock Light Tactile and Cherry MX Brown switches offer different subjective qualities. The Light Tactile switch provides a super gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, while the MX Brown switch offers a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. If you are looking for a switch with a more angelic tactility and neutral sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with subtlety and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a great choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a unique and more subtle tactile experience compared to sharper tactile switches on the market. These switches provide an angelic tactility that is complemented by their gentle sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with subtlety and a relatively light typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown switch is the way to go. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a more subdued audio feedback and gentle tactility. They provide a smooth and refined typing experience due to their polished finish. When it comes to sound, the Light Tactile switch has a neutral profile suitable for both beginners and advanced users, while the MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched tone. In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch is mild and polished, providing a comfortable middle-ground typing experience, while the MX Brown switch has a textured feel, which may be preferred by some users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more