Durock Medium Tactile vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Cherry MX Red are two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences. The Medium Tactile from Durock is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing sensation with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the MX Red falls under 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Cherry MX Red, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar tactile experience and sound feedback. However, the top housing of the Medium Tactile is made of polycarbonate, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the MX Red features a nylon top housing, creating a duller and rounder sound. This distinction in top housing material affects the overall sound profile of each switch.
On the aesthetic side, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the top housing of the Durock Medium Tactile allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. This feature is unique to switches with polycarbonate housings, providing users with the option to customize the lighting effects of their keyboards. In comparison, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of visual customization. However, both switches share the commonality of using nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and Cherry MX Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in the Medium Tactile's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users looking for a more subdued sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a reliable and consistent typing experience, thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Cherry MX Red switches, we see that the Durock has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, but an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Durock switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Cherry MX Red is lighter in terms of actuation force. This difference in weight can impact the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for extended typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel. The tactile feedback of the Medium Tactile may provide a different typing experience compared to the linear feel of the MX Red, even though their travel distances are the same. So while the travel distance may be equal, the typing feel and feedback may differ between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium Tactile for $4.25.
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, which may offer a unique and softer auditory experience compared to the Cherry MX Red. The MX Red, on the other hand, is described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Medium Tactile potentially appealing to those seeking a more subtle and balanced sound, while the MX Red may cater to individuals who prefer a deeper and more robust auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile is characterized by its accented tactility, stepped feel, mild keypress, and polished finish, all contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is described as textured, possibly offering a slightly rougher feel upon actuation. The Medium Tactile's balanced tactility and smoother key travel may be preferred by users looking for a tactile switch that strikes a harmonious blend between feedback and comfort, while the MX Red's textured feel may cater to those who enjoy a bit more friction in their keystrokes.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and Cherry MX Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with different options based on their preferences. While the Medium Tactile may provide a softer and more balanced sound profile with a polished and refined feel, the MX Red offers a deeper and more robust sound with a textured tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is seeking. Regardless of the selection, both switches are widely respected in the mechanical keyboard community and should offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Cherry MX Red switches, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a balanced tactile feel with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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