Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When seeking the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Type A offer distinct options to consider. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is renowned for its gentle tactility, providing a unique typing experience with a softer touch compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A stands out for its innovative design in Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offering a medium-weight switch with deep sound characteristics. While the Light Tactile falls under the category of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Type A is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued'. Each switch presents its own strengths and qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Type A, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Type A uses a nylon top housing to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. This variation in material results in distinct sound qualities for each switch, with the Light Tactile offering a higher-pitched sound compared to the Type A's rounder sound.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which leads to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on them. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound creates a duller sound, enhancing the typing experience for both the Light Tactile and Type A switches. This similarity in the bottom housing material highlights how the switch's construction can influence the overall sound and feel of typing, despite differences in other housing components.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound and the Type A's nylon top housing yields a fuller sound, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing's ability to create a deep and absorbing sound. Understanding how different housing materials affect sound quality can help users select the switch that best suits their preferences for typing experience and overall sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Durock Light Tactile has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force than the Gateron Type A. 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 Gateron Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that the Durock Light Tactile will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Gateron Type A will offer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a total of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience with both switches. In this case, there is no difference in travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a key switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a neutral and jelly-like sound signature, offering a pleasant and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile, but with a subdued quality that dampens the sound when pressed. This makes the Type A ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing too much tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfactory sound experience, with the Light Tactile leaning towards a more pronounced and gentle sound, while the Type A offers a more subtle and subdued option.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The smooth and refined finish of the Light Tactile switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to compare directly in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Type A switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Light Tactile excels in providing a gentle and tactile typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, while the Type A offers a subdued sound signature for those seeking a quieter option. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. It is worth noting that both switches are considered neutral in terms of sound profile, so you can expect similar results in that aspect.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Type A switches, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Light Tactile if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a gentle tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a more refined typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Gateron Type A if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a switch with a deep, subdued sound profile. The Type A is a great choice for those seeking a compromise between weight and sound, offering a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
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