Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Smoothie 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 Gateron Smoothie often comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more subdued typing experience compared to the sharp tactility of other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is praised for its smoothness and thocky sound, offering a creamy and buttery typing experience. While the Light Tactile is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Smoothie is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to individual taste. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing materials. The Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Smoothie's POM top housing results in a deeper and more muted sound. While the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a higher-pitched sound, the Smoothie's POM top housing offers a unique sound that leans towards the deeper side. Despite these differences, both materials provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing experiences.
Furthermore, looking at the bottom housing materials of both switches, we see a contrast in sound profiles as well. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, while the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also results in a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side. Although both materials offer a similar sound profile in terms of depth, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the relatively more muted sound of the Smoothie's POM bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Smoothie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the Light Tactile combines a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing to provide a sharp and crisp sound experience with a fuller typing feel, the Smoothie utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing to create a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, making them both viable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Light Tactile is also higher at 67 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Smoothie. The Light Tactile provides a medium-heavy typing experience while the Smoothie's typing experience in terms of bottom out force is uncertain. Some may find the Light Tactile more suitable for longer typing sessions due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, while others may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing feel and performance for different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Light Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Smoothie. However, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Smoothie would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and tactile feedback, the Light Tactile would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 gentle and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying yet not overpowering acoustic feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch emits a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that enhances the tactile experience with a deep and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Light Tactile focusing on a more subtle and balanced sound, while the Smoothie delivers a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Light Tactile switch is characterized by its mild and polished typing sensation, offering a gentle and approachable tactile feedback that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort during extended typing sessions. Both switches prioritize smoothness and refinement in their feel, with the Light Tactile focusing on a gentle yet polished typing experience, while the Smoothie offers a more fluid and uniform keystroke sensation.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Smoothie switches present distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch excels in providing a neutral and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactility and a balanced sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, coupled with a buttery and creamy feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches deliver unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for users looking to explore the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, depending on personal preferences, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and enjoyment with either the Durock Light Tactile or the Gateron Smoothie switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Smoothie switches, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature with remarkable smoothness and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a softer tactile feel or a smoother linear experience in your typing. Consider your preferences carefully to ensure you choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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