Durock Light Tactile vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options worth considering are the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches brings about an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches have their own unique appeal. They are ideal for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience, providing a satisfying sound profile with a relatively higher-pitched tone. The Light Tactile switch falls into the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the RedBlue switch is characterized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. These general descriptions can offer some guidance when choosing a switch, but let's dive deeper into the specifics to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue both use polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, there is a difference between the Light Tactile and the RedBlue. The Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which again provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Unlike nylon, polycarbonate is a stiffer material that creates a clear and resonant sound. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing will have an impact on the sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will impact the sound when a key is released. This means that the Light Tactile and the RedBlue will have distinct characteristics based on their choice of top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are notable differences. The Durock Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the actuation force for the SP-Star RedBlue is unknown, but its bottom out force is 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue would be a suitable choice due to its lower bottom out force. This lighter switch allows for prolonged typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push might lean towards the Durock Light Tactile, given its higher actuation and bottom out forces. These heavier forces create a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke experience.
Despite potential differences, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, individuals looking for a similar typing outcome could achieve comparable results with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue switches is equal, as both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, if you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance, you will obtain similar results with both of these switches.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a unique and pleasant experience. This switch has a jelly-like sound signature, which is softer and more subtle compared to other tactile switches. It provides an angelic tactility that is gentle and not overly sharp. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches has a slightly higher frequency and may be more noticeable. However, it is important to note that the sound of any switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, both the Light Tactile and RedBlue switches provide a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a mild typing experience. A mild switch provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Light Tactile switch, in particular, stands out for its gentle tactility, which contrasts with the sharper tactile switches commonly available in the market. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you choose the Light Tactile or RedBlue switch, you can expect a comfortable typing feel that should suit most users.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer different subjective qualities. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It provides a unique typing experience that is a welcome contrast to sharper tactile switches. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a medium-light typing experience with a slightly higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches provide a mild feel and a polished finish, resulting in a comfortable and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, as they offer different qualities to cater to various typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle and jelly-like tactility, the Durock Light Tactile is a great choice. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. The switch's sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. Additionally, the Light Tactile has a mild and polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a lighter touch while typing. The RedBlue's sound profile is described as low-pitched, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Similar to the Light Tactile, this switch also has a mild and polished feel, resulting in a comfortable and sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Light Tactile is a suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch may be more appealing to you. Consider your typing preferences and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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