Durock Medium Tactile vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro are two popular options to consider. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, making it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, appealing to those looking for a Goldilocks tactile option. Both switches have their 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
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. While both switches share this top housing material, they differentiate in their bottom housings, with the Medium Tactile featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Violet Gold Pro also incorporating a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in their top polycarbonate housing, the differences in the bottom nylon housing of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro result in varying sound qualities when typing on the switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the unique qualities of each material in different aspects of typing. This split between the top and bottom housing materials ultimately contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile feel of the switches.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting, their differing nylon bottom housings provide unique characteristics in terms of sound depth and absorption. The split impact of the top and bottom housings on the typing experience highlights the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying tactile and auditory response for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch, it is evident that they offer different levels of resistance. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lighter touch, but its bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force suggests that the Violet Gold Pro switch might offer a smoother and easier keystroke compared to the Medium Tactile switch, which may require more force to trigger. However, since both switches have an unknown force for one of the metrics, it is difficult to determine the overall typing experience without further information. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Medium Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.8 mm of the Violet Gold Pro. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Medium Tactile being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more solid and substantial feel when typing may gravitate towards the Medium Tactile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. Both switches deliver pleasant sound qualities, with the choice between a more distinct sound with the Medium Tactile or a balanced sound with the Violet Gold Pro depending on personal preference.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a mix of accented, stepped, mild, and polished characteristics, creating a tactile typing experience that is pronounced yet smooth. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is described as stepped, providing a different tactile sensation that is more subtle compared to the Medium Tactile. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Medium Tactile delivering a more prominent tactile response while the Violet Gold Pro provides a gentler touch.
Overall, while the Durock Medium Tactile and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches have different sound and feel characteristics, they both offer quality tactile options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a more distinct tactility and sound profile with the Medium Tactile or a balanced and versatile typing experience with the Violet Gold Pro, both switches are designed to enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium tactility, light touch, and a neutral sound signature, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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