Durock Medium Tactile vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) 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 TTC Silent Bluish White. Both switches offer a tactile experience, providing a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. The Durock Medium Tactile is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, creating a unique typing experience. Additionally, it has a jelly-like sound signature, which some users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White, despite its medium tactility, is designed to be as quiet as possible. This makes it perfect for those who work in an office or shared living space and want to avoid disturbing others. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches share a common material for their top housing: polycarbonate. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Its stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it a preferred choice for switches with a clear housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for the beautiful illumination of the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic results from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, there is a difference in the material used for the bottom housing of these switches. The Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Bluish White also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is well-known as a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its relatively softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect the same sound experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel from both the Medium Tactile and the Silent Bluish White switches.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in its overall sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. While the Medium Tactile and Silent Bluish White switches may share similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, the distinction between the two housings ensures that each switch offers a unique typing experience to users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to evaluate in comparison. However, it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, providing a lighter and easier keystroke initiation. Its bottom out force is 50 grams, which is also lighter than the Durock Medium Tactile switch.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter switch will find the TTC Silent Bluish White more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. The lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless keystrokes and reduce fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Durock Medium Tactile switch, despite the exact actuation force being unknown. The heavier bottom out force of 65 grams provides a more satisfying push feel. Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a potential option for individuals looking for a more robust typing experience, while the TTC Silent Bluish White switch caters to those who desire a lighter touch and extended typing comfort.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. These differences in travel distance can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is more traditional, providing a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the TTC Silent Bluish White switch offers a slightly shallower experience. This can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced and satisfying key press, the longer travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile switch may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 best described as having a jelly-like sound signature, although further details are unknown. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is specifically designed to be as quiet as possible, making it perfect for office or shared living space use. The Silent Bluish White is characterized as a muted switch, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility. It is considered an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is described as stepped, meaning it has a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. The Medium Tactile is also identified as a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Furthermore, the switch is said to be polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Similarly, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is also described as having a mild tactility. It is considered a stepped switch, offering a more mild tactile feel compared to hyper-tactile switches. The Silent Bluish White switch is also identified as a subtle switch, providing a gentle resistance for a light typing feel. In terms of sound, it is mentioned that the sound signature will not be resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Like the Medium Tactile, the Silent Bluish White is also noted as a polished switch, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the information provided, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, while the TTC Silent Bluish White switch provides a satisfying level of resistance, a mild tactile feel, and is designed to be as quiet as possible. Both switches offer the benefit of being polished, resulting in a smooth typing experience. While the specifics of the sound and feel qualities may differ, both switches fall within the mild to medium range, offering a comfortable and approachable typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for similar results, both switches would provide a satisfactory option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and the TTC Silent Bluish White switches, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you value a more pronounced yet balanced tactility and enjoy a jelly-like sound signature, the Medium Tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel that some may find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, the Silent Bluish White switch is the better option. It offers a medium tactile feel with a satisfying level of resistance, making it comfortable for precise typing. Additionally, its design focuses on minimizing noise, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and by considering the factors mentioned, you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and requirements.
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