Cherry MX Black vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to comparing and contrasting two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and the Durock Piano, there are some distinct features that make each switch unique. The MX Black, known for Cherry's perfection in its iconic switches, offers a classic textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile. It is categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, resulting in one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. When using the Piano, users can expect a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. It is categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, offering a different tactile experience. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$4.00 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and the Durock Piano switches have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Durock Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for its top and bottom housing. While the exact details of this blend remain unknown, it is known to offer a satisfying and deep sound profile.

Although both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housing, they share a common characteristic in their ability to produce a deep sound. The nylon housing of the MX Black and the POM blend of the Durock Piano both contribute to a rounded and duller sound when the keys are pressed. This similarity ensures that users can achieve similar results in terms of sound quality, regardless of the specific housing material used.

Furthermore, the choice of housing material also affects how the sound is perceived when releasing a key. In the case of the MX Black, the nylon top housing has more influence on the sound when the key is released. This indicates that the nylon material contributes to a specific sound profile during the key release phase. Similarly, the POM blend top housing of the Durock Piano is likely to have a significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. By incorporating different materials for the top and bottom housings, users can experience a variety of sound profiles based on the specific switch they choose.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of weight. The MX Black possesses a relatively heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the force required for the Piano's actuation remains unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Black requires 80 grams of pressure, which is considered heavy, while the Piano exerts a slightly lighter 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy.

Considering the importance of weight, it becomes apparent that individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience would find the MX Black switch to be less suitable, as its significant actuation and bottom out forces may result in fatigue over prolonged periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may be drawn to the MX Black, as its heavier forces provide a firmer push and a more satisfying keystroke.

In terms of the Durock Piano switch, since the actuation force remains unknown, it is difficult to directly compare it with the MX Black in this specific aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Piano is lighter compared to the MX Black, yet still falls within the medium-heavy range. Therefore, individuals who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback and resistance might find the Piano switch to be a suitable option.

Overall, while the MX Black switch leans towards a heavier typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, the Piano switch offers a slightly lighter alternative for those who still desire some level of resistance and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top position to the bottom position. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black and the Durock Piano offer distinct experiences. The MX Black has a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a deep and familiar sound when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the Durock Piano produces a bassy sound, which is deeper and richer in nature. This gives the keystrokes a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black is described as textured and stiff. The textured nature of these switches means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. Some users might appreciate this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making it a stiff switch that demands more force when typing.

In contrast, the Durock Piano offers a frictionless and silky typing experience. The switch glides effortlessly, providing a smooth and fluid travel. This frictionless characteristic minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Furthermore, the switch's silky feel enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.

Conclusively, the Cherry MX Black and the Durock Piano provide distinct subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the MX Black offers a low-pitched and familiar deep sound profile, while the Piano has a bassy and rich sound signature. Regarding feel, the MX Black is textured and stiff, requiring more force when typing, while the Piano is frictionless and silky, offering an effortlessly smooth typing experience. Each switch has its unique characteristics, and the choice between them depends on one's personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prefer the deep familiarity of the MX Black or the gliding push of the Durock Piano, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier switch with a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the MX Black would be a suitable choice. The MX Black is known for its low-pitched sound and textured, stiff feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano would be more fitting. The Piano is known for its bassy sound and frictionless, silky feel. Consider these factors and decide whether you prioritize a heavier, textured feel or a smoother, frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches is a matter of personal preference.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more