Durock Light Tactile vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer different experiences that cater to individual preferences. The Light Tactile from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more refined typing experience compared to other tactile switches on the market. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch boasts an innovative design that prioritizes silent typing, offering unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the Light Tactile is known for its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature, the Zero Degree 0° excels in reducing noise and providing a soft, elastic feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the illumination to shine through the housing. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches will offer similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Durock Light Tactile is made of nylon, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a more muted and rounded sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. While both switches may have similar bottom housing materials, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will vary slightly between the two switches due to potential differences in design or construction.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Durock Light Tactile and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches offers a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, creating a unique typing experience for users. While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, subtle differences in design or construction may influence the overall feel and sound of each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics that each user values in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile is slightly heavier. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Light Tactile offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° provides a lighter touch. Some users may prefer the Light Tactile for a more substantial typing feel, while others may lean towards the Zero Degree 0° for a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Zero Degree 0° switch. The Light Tactile switch may provide a more traditional typing experience with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a slightly shallower 3.6 mm travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Zero Degree 0° switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, making it a unique and pleasing option for those who prefer a softer tactile feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch provides unparalleled smoothness and stability with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, resulting in a soft and elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the sound profile of the Light Tactile is described as neutral and the feel is mild and polished, the sound and feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch remain unknown. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that both switches will offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on whether the individual prioritizes a gentle tactile typing experience (Light Tactile) or a smooth and noise-reducing linear feel (Zero Degree 0°).
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a gentle tactility and a mild sound profile, the Light Tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, stability, and a noise-reducing design, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing setup. Whether you prioritize tactility or smoothness, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles.
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