Durock Light Tactile vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide variety to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular options that provide a tactile typing experience are the Durock Light Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its gentle tactility, offering a pleasant contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish Whites offer a medium level of tactile feel, giving you a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. What sets them apart is their quiet nature, specifically designed to minimize noise, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but evoking different tactile sensations. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Durock Light Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and compatibility with RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the two switches. The Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Bluish White also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. It absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the sound they produce.
When using switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it's important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily invoke the characteristics of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a stronger influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. As a result, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of sound when using either the Light Tactile or Silent Bluish White switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switches, we can observe some notable differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, the Light Tactile switch is heavier as it requires an actuation force of 52 grams and has a bottom out force of 67 grams, falling in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Bluish White switch may be the ideal choice. With its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for effortless keystrokes, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Light Tactile switch provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This can be advantageous for individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel when typing, seeking a more satisfying and pronounced response from their keystrokes.
Although the forces differ, both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference. Those seeking a longer typing duration without strain may find the Silent Bluish White switch more appealing, while individuals desiring a more weighty and impactful typing experience may lean towards the Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on the desired typing sensation and usage requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you are someone who prefers a more responsive feel and faster response times, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch would be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for this reason. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Durock Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. It's worth mentioning that both options offer a distinct tactile feel, but the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences for the depth and speed of key presses.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate level of sound, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced typists. It is a gentle and jelly-like sound that accompanies the angelic tactility of the switch. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is described as muted. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Bluish Whites are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Therefore, if you prefer a softer and quieter typing experience, the Silent Bluish Whites would be a good choice. However, keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild tactility provides a gentle typing experience, making it approachable for most users. The switch has a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Light Tactile, the Silent Bluish White switch also offers a mild typing experience and has a polished finish. This ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and TTC Silent Bluish White switches differ slightly in their sound and feel characteristics. The Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a jelly-like sound, while the Silent Bluish White switch produces a softer and quieter sound. In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience, but the Light Tactile is described as polished, while the Silent Bluish White is described as buttery. These switches offer similar results in terms of a gentle typing experience and a smooth keystroke, making them suitable for most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a gentle and jelly-like tactility, the Durock Light Tactile switch is the one for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. This switch is best known for its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in both home and work environments.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is the way to go. With a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a precise and comfortable typing experience with a medium-level tactility. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them perfect for office or shared living spaces. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, allowing you to type without disturbing others.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches depends on your preferences for tactility and sound. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feel and a jelly-like sound, go for the Durock Light Tactile switch. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience and a medium-level tactility, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is the better option. Consider your typing environment and personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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