Durock Medium Tactile vs. Kailh Plum

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Durock Medium Tactile and the Kailh Plum, both of which fall into the tactile switch category. The Durock Medium Tactile is highly regarded for its distinctive flavor of tactility. With a pronounced yet balanced tactility, it provides a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it has a jelly-like sound signature, adding a unique touch to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum deviates from the norm by offering a hefty feel without a significant tactile bump. This makes it stand out from other tactile switches, which typically prioritize both tactility and weightiness. Furthermore, the Plum boasts a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

Kailh Plum Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Medium Tactile and the Kailh Plum switches share similar characteristics when it comes to their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to be more prominent, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize aesthetics and lighting customization.

Where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Medium Tactile employs nylon for its bottom housing, while the Plum also utilizes nylon for its own. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing.

When it comes to the overall experience of using these switches, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The stiffness of the polycarbonate top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when the key is let go.

In conclusion, both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Kailh Plum switches offer desirable sound profiles due to their housing materials. While the top housing's polycarbonate material provides a sharper and crisper sound, the bottom housing's nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you choose the Medium Tactile or the Plum, you can expect similar results in terms of the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is important to note that the specific force values for actuation are unavailable for both switches. However, we can compare their bottom out forces. The Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range.

Considering weight is crucial for individuals who have specific preferences in typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, which allows for longer typing periods, the Durock Medium Tactile switch might be a suitable choice. This lighter option can be beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions.

However, individuals seeking a more substantial and stronger push feel might prefer the Kailh Plum switch. With its slightly heavier bottom out force, this switch can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.

Although the actuation forces are unknown, given that both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, it is safe to assume that the actuation forces would also result in similar responses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different travel distances. The Medium Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Medium Tactile is more in line with the traditional distance, while the 3.6mm of the Plum is slightly shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Plum may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial and deeper key press, the Durock Medium Tactile with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Ultimately, based on your personal preference and typing style, you can choose between the two switches to achieve your desired experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature, although the exact description is not provided. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Both switches offer a sound experience that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or at work.

In terms of feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having a accented tactility. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or too subtle. It is also described as having a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of feedback where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, it is considered to have a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience.

The Kailh Plum switch is also described as having a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is suitable for most users. Like the Durock Medium Tactile, it is also described as having a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of feedback with slight pre-travel and/or post-travel. However, further subjective qualities of the feel are not provided.

In conclusion, both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Kailh Plum switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Durock Medium Tactile has a jelly-like sound signature and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, making it stand out in terms of sound and tactile feedback. The Kailh Plum, on the other hand, has a more neutral sound profile and provides a mild and approachable typing experience. While both switches offer similar mild characteristics and a stepped feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is also described as accented and polished, further enhancing its tactile and typing experience. Overall, both switches can provide satisfactory results depending on individual preferences and requirements.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, the Durock Medium Tactile switches and Kailh Plum switches each have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that feels hefty but doesn't feature a huge tactile bump, and has a neutral sound profile, then the Kailh Plum switches may be more suitable. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience. Lastly, if you value switches that are polished and offer a smooth key travel, the Durock Medium Tactile can provide that with its polished feel, while the Kailh Plum switches offer a stepped feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more