Durock Light Tactile vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a tactile switch like the Durock Light Tactile and a linear switch like the Cherry MX Speed Silver can greatly impact your typing and gaming experience. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, offering a more subtle and smooth typing feel compared to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its lightning-fast response time and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers seeking immediate feedback during intense gameplay sessions. While the Light Tactile switch is perfect for those who prefer a softer touch and a quieter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver excels in providing rapid keystrokes for competitive gaming. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, we can see that the Light Tactile uses a polycarbonate top housing while the MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material of the Light Tactile creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who want a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon material of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more rounded typing sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we see that both the Light Tactile and the MX Speed Silver feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbing nature of the nylon material. The softer plastic of the nylon creates a duller sound, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. While the bottom housing typically impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, the use of nylon in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience across the board.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Cherry MX Speed Silver ultimately comes down to the type of typing experience you prefer. The polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile provides a sharper and clearer sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more rounded typing sound. Despite their differences, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience thanks to the unique properties of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile switch is heavier in both aspects. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver has a significantly lighter actuation force of 30 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the MX Speed Silver would be the preferable choice. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose should be based on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of commonly used travel distances, with the Light Tactile being more traditional and the MX Speed Silver offering a shallower experience. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the MX Speed Silver a popular choice in this regard. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Light Tactile with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a variety of uses and environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and satisfying auditory experience. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, potentially providing a different tactile sensation compared to the smoothness of the Light Tactile switch. The feel of a switch is crucial as it directly impacts the overall typing experience and user comfort.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and angelic feel, along with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is renowned for its rapid response, full-height design, and thocky, low-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their typing style and gaming habits. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Light Tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum speed and instant triggering for gaming purposes, the MX Speed Silver switch with its rapid response and low spring resistance would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a softer and more refined typing experience or the need for quick and precise keystrokes.
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