Durock Medium Tactile vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type S, a linear switch. The Medium Tactile stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, offering a jelly-like sound signature that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is praised for its innovative design, featuring a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Type S falls under 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Type S, one can see a stark contrast between the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile and the nylon top housing of the Type S. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature, the nylon top housing of the Type S elicits a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer composition. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific auditory feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Type S utilize nylon material. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the differences in the top housings highlight the unique qualities each switch brings to the table. The use of nylon in the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, providing users with a consistent typing experience across both models despite their differing top housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Type S ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Medium Tactile offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Type S provides a deeper and rounder sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches present a high-quality typing experience, with the differences in housing materials offering distinct sound profiles to cater to different preferences. Whether one prefers a clearer and more resonant sound or a fuller and deeper tone, both switches deliver reliable performance based on their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that the Type S is the lighter option with an actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Medium Tactile which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches in terms of force required for the keys to register fully. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Type S for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Durock Medium Tactile. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom out force, so users can expect comparable results in that aspect.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both 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, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience. Despite other differences between the two switches, such as actuation force or tactile feedback, their travel distance remains the same, providing a level playing field in this particular attribute. Overall, the travel distance of both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Type S switches is the same, making them equally suitable choices for those looking for a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboard 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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 switches offer a unique jelly-like sound signature, providing a pleasing acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switches have a neutral sound profile that leans towards a deeper and more subdued tone. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to the feel, the Medium Tactile switches are known for their accented tactile feedback, offering a balanced and prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. They also provide a smooth and polished typing experience, thanks to their refined finish. In comparison, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switches is not available, so it's hard to directly compare the tactile experience between the two.
Overall, while the Durock Medium Tactile and Gateron Type S switches offer differing sound and potentially feel qualities, both switches are designed to cater to individuals who appreciate a unique typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a pronounced tactile feel with a jelly-like sound or a more neutral and subdued sound profile, you can achieve similar results in typing satisfaction with either switch, as long as you choose the one that aligns with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Type S switches, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactility and sound, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience.
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