Durock Medium Tactile vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Durock Medium Tactile is a tactile switch known for its unique flavor. It offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it has a jelly-like sound signature that adds to the overall enjoyment. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue is a linear switch that stands out for its medium-light typing experience. Perfect for those who prefer a gentler feel while typing, it offers a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue differ in terms of their bottom housing. The Medium Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. These differences in the bottom housing materials will influence the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
In contrast, both the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star RedBlue share a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice leads to a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness. Polycarbonate's stiffness plays a significant role in creating a clear and resonant sound profile, which is why it is commonly used in switches with clear housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with these sound and aesthetic qualities, both the Medium Tactile and the RedBlue will provide similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
It is noteworthy that the qualities brought about by the bottom and top housings of a switch are distinct. When using either the Medium Tactile or the RedBlue, the bottom housing's characteristics will be felt and heard when pressing down on a key. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will predominantly influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding this division of qualities can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for both typing experience and sound output.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, making it impossible to directly compare them in that aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile is 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the SP-Star RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is slightly lighter at medium-light.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue may be more suitable. With its lower bottom out force, it allows for smooth and effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. This switch provides a stronger push feel, which some individuals find satisfying and prefer for increased tactile feedback.
Weight considerations play a significant role when choosing between these switches. Those who prioritize a lightweight option for prolonged typing sessions or gaming may find the SP-Star RedBlue to be more suitable. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial and heavier typing experience should opt for the Durock Medium Tactile. Despite the lack of available information on actuation force, it can be concluded that the Durock Medium Tactile is the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, while the SP-Star RedBlue is the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue 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 a consistent 4 mm of travel. The travel distance is the same for both switches, ensuring similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing the keys. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 is best described as having a jelly-like sound signature. While the sound profile of the SP-Star RedBlue switches is relatively higher-pitched. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched sound, the RedBlue switches may not meet your preference.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile is characterized as having an accented feel. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is not hypertactile or scratchy, offering a medium tactile experience. Furthermore, the Medium Tactile switch is also described as stepped, which means it has a milder feel compared to hypertactile switches. This implies that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during keypresses. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch is mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are also characterized as mild and polished. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined finishes. The qualities of the RedBlue switches stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. The RedBlue switches are suitable for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile and SP-Star RedBlue switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile switch exhibits a jelly-like sound signature and provides an accented, stepped, and mild tactile feel with a polished finish. Meanwhile, the RedBlue switch produces a relatively higher-pitched sound and offers a mild and polished typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices when selecting the optimal switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. Its jelly-like sound signature adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a bottom out force of 57 grams, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the way to go. These switches are particularly suited for those who enjoy a lower-pitched sound profile. Both options provide a mild typing experience and smooth key travel, thanks to their polished finish. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or linear smoothness. With these considerations in mind, you can choose the switch that best suits your preferences and typing needs.
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