Gateron Mini i vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Durock Piano stand out as popular choices in their respective categories. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that offers gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office environments that require quiet professionalism without sacrificing typing feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is a linear switch known for its pleasant typing experience due to its proprietary material blend, providing a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. While the Mini i is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Piano is labeled as 'Bassy' and 'Silky', highlighting their unique qualities. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Durock Piano both utilize unique housing materials to enhance the sound profile of their switches. The Mini i features a nylon top housing which absorbs sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. Similarly, the Piano uses a proprietary POM blend top housing that also contributes to a uniquely satisfying and deep sound experience. While the exact details of the POM blend are unknown, it is clear that both switches aim to provide a more premium sound profile through their choice of housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mini i and the Piano again use different materials to impact the overall sound profile of the switches. The Mini i employs a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, which enhances the depth and fullness of the typing sound. Conversely, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend bottom housing to offer a uniquely satisfying sound profile. These materials play a significant role in how the switches feel and sound when pressed and released, providing users with a more immersive typing experience.
It is important to note that the differences in housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can impact how the typing experience is perceived. The bottom housing tends to have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the variations in materials used, both the Gateron Mini i and the Durock Piano aim to provide users with a premium typing experience through their carefully chosen housing materials, whether it be nylon or a proprietary POM blend. Ultimately, the selection of housing material can greatly impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch, making it a crucial consideration for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock Piano linear switch. The Mini i requires 40 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out. In contrast, the Piano switch has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mini i would be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Piano switch would be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and should be considered when choosing a switch for a keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Durock Piano linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Piano switch offers a bit more depth and tactility with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that the user is looking for in their mechanical keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 Gateron Mini i switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch offers a bassy sound signature with deeper and richer tones during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycap combination used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities contribute to a typing experience that is responsive, comfortable, and suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Each switch offers distinct tactile feedback and actuation forces that cater to different typing preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch each have their own strengths when it comes to sound and feel. While the Mini i switch offers a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, the Piano switch provides a bassy sound signature and a frictionless, silky typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, typing habits, and the desired typing feel. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the Durock Piano linear switch.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a switch that provides a light and gentle typing experience with subtle tactility and a muted sound profile, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be a great choice, especially for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and creamier sound profile, a medium-heavy bottom out force, and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, the Durock Piano linear switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Mini i and the Durock Piano hinges on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics. Choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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