Gateron Mars vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and Durock Sea Glass both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Mars switch stands out with its innovative POK stem design and a durable housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, providing a solid and consistent feel that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Sea Glass switches catch the eye with their stunning pastel colors while delivering a typing experience characterized by dryness, airiness, and a smoother feel, despite their lighter weight and 62g bottom-out force. This combination of aesthetics and performance makes the Sea Glass an enticing option for those who value both style and functionality. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the robust construction of the Gateron Mars or the feather-light, playful experience of the Durock Sea Glass, each switch brings its own unique flair to the keyboard landscape. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and Durock Sea Glass switches feature distinct materials in their housings, each contributing uniquely to the overall acoustic characteristics and feel during use. The Mars switch employs a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch uses a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, resulting in a brighter sound profile that still manages to be pleasant and less sharp. This difference suggests that while both switches may allow for a satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Mars emphasizes a more muted, rounded auditory experience, whereas the Durock Sea Glass leans towards a slightly sharper yet enjoyable brightness.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a further divergence between these two switches. The Mars utilizes a POM bottom housing, celebrated for its ability to produce a unique and deep sound that remains relatively muted in comparison to other materials. Meanwhile, the Sea Glass adopts the same polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing as it does for the top. This results in a consistent sound profile that is bright and pleasant, creating a more coherent auditory experience compared to the Mars. Here, the differences become more pronounced; with the Mars providing a more segregated sound experience where the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel significantly, while the Sea Glass integrates its sound characteristics throughout both its top and bottom.
In terms of overall user experience, the choice between the Gateron Mars and Durock Sea Glass can influence the tactile and auditory satisfaction derived from each switch. If a user favors a deeper, more subdued sound characteristic, the Mars might be the preferred choice due to its nylon top and POM bottom, creating a fuller sound upon actuation and release. Conversely, for those who enjoy a brighter, cohesive sound profile, the Sea Glass offers a unique combination of materials that deliver an uplifting auditory sensation. Therefore, while the top and bottom housing materials between the two are different, the varying combinations can create distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences that hold their own merits.
Weight
The Gateron Mars linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, resulting in a similar feel when triggering a keystroke. This equivalence in actuation force allows users to experience a consistent typing experience when pressing the keys down. However, the two switches diverge in terms of bottom out force, with the Sea Glass having a specified bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Mars switch remains unknown. Consequently, while both switches are designed to activate with the same amount of force, the Sea Glass requires additional effort to fully depress, making it the heavier option. This aspect of the Sea Glass may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Mars might be favorable for those who favor a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the key difference is clear: the Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This means that if you choose the Mars switch, you will experience a shorter keystroke compared to the Sea Glass, which may feel more substantial and deeper. Gamers, who often prefer faster response times, might gravitate towards the Gateron Mars for its quicker actuation, while those who appreciate a more pronounced typing experience might favor the Durock Sea Glass. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance, with the Mars being the shorter option and the Sea Glass offering a bit more depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Gateron Mars switch's auditory profile remains unspecified, which leaves it open to subjective interpretation. Meanwhile, the Durock Sea Glass switch is characterized by its uniquely hollow sound signature, which complements its lightweight feel. The distinct dryness and airiness of the Sea Glass switch contribute to a typing experience that many find soothing, though it's important to note that the overall sound produced will also depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps used alongside the switches.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the Mars switch's tactile qualities are not provided, but we do know that the Sea Glass switch is described as mild, feathery, and easy-to-press. This translates to a gentle typing experience that is well-suited for long sessions of gaming, schoolwork, or general typing, reducing the risk of finger fatigue. The light actuation force required for the Sea Glass makes it exceptionally comfortable and responsive, establishing an inviting environment for users who appreciate light, effortless keystrokes.
When considering both the Gateron Mars and Durock Sea Glass switches, it's evident that the Sea Glass switch emphasizes a lightweight and airy typing experience, catering to users who prioritize comfort and ease of use. Without specific information about the Mars's sound and feel, it's challenging to make direct comparisons, but if the Mars switch aligns with similar principles of comfort and smoothness, users can expect a satisfying experience from both options. Ultimately, the choice might come down to aesthetic preferences or the distinctive qualities of each switch, particularly the sound profile of the Sea Glass switch that sets it apart.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Mars and Durock Sea Glass linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you're someone who enjoys a unique and innovative typing experience, the Gateron Mars could be your best bet, especially with its lightweight design and intriguing POK stem that can enhance your overall keyboard performance. This switch may cater well to lighter typists or those who prefer a more relaxed typing style, making it ideal for extended sessions without the fatigue often associated with heavier switches. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial typing feel and sound profile, the Durock Sea Glass switches may suit your needs better. With their moderate 62-gram bottom-out force and smooth, almost feather-like actuation, these switches offer a gentle yet responsive touch that can be particularly comforting for gaming or lengthy writing tasks. Additionally, their hollow sound signature gives them a unique auditory character that might appeal to users seeking a more immersive experience. In the end, consider how you plan to use your keyboard, as both switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing styles and preferences.
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