Durock Light Tactile vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of factors to consider. Among the options available, the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh Plum stand out as notable choices. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a refreshing change from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Its gentle tactility, accompanied by a soft and jelly-like sound profile, makes for a truly pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch by Kailh boasts a unique characteristic by providing a hefty feel without a prominent tactile bump. This divergence from the norm sets it apart, as most tactile switches are usually associated with a heavier actuation force. Additionally, the Plum switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best-informed decision for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
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 Kailh Plum share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
However, the bottom housing of these switches differs. The Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Plum also employs a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar experience in terms of a deeper and fuller sound profile.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials is noteworthy. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing's impact becomes more apparent when releasing a key. While the polycarbonate top housings of both switches contribute to the distinct sound, the nylon bottom housing further enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh Plum share similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housing. The differences lie in the nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh Plum tactile switches, there are some similarities and differences. The Durock Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Kailh Plum switch is unavailable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is also considered medium-heavy.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom-out forces are lower compared to the Kailh Plum switch. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue.
On the other hand, some users may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Kailh Plum switch with its higher bottom out force could provide the desired level of resistance and tactile feedback, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a slightly lighter actuation force compared to the Kailh Plum, while both switches have a similar bottom out force in the medium-heavy range. Therefore, if one desires a lighter feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile would be a suitable option. However, if a heavier actuation force is desired along with the medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum switch would be the appropriate choice.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different travel distances. The Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. 4.0mm is a more traditional travel distance, while 3.6mm is on the shallower side. For gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Plum switch may be more appealing. It offers a quicker and more immediate feedback when keys are pressed. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feeling may opt for the Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance, both switches will provide satisfactory 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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, both the Durock Light Tactile and Kailh Plum switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a gentle tactility, contrasting with the sharper tactile switches available in the market. It provides an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch can be considered polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
The Kailh Plum switches, on the other hand, feel quite hefty but don't have a significant tactile bump, making them unique compared to other tactile switches. They offer a mild typing experience, which is approachable to most users. These switches can be considered stepped, meaning they have two stages of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and Kailh Plum switches provide a pleasant typing experience with their mild tactility. While the Light Tactile switch offers a more gentle and polished feel, the Plum switch stands out for its unique combination of weightiness and mild tactility. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps when determining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh Plum tactile switches offer unique qualities that make them worth considering. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its extremely gentle tactility, providing a more subtle and smooth typing experience. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a moderate tactile bump with a slightly heavier bottom out force. Its sound profile is also neutral and enjoyable. Both switches fall within the mild category in terms of feel, ensuring that the typing experience is approachable for most users. Moreover, the Light Tactile switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smoother key travel, while the Plum switch is stepped, providing a two-stage tactile sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility and weightiness. So, consider your typing style and desired sound profile when deciding which switch best suits your needs.
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