Cherry MX Red vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the Durock T1. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that is super comfortable to type on, featuring a medium bump when pressed and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. These distinctions provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Red and Durock T1 switches both feature nylon in their bottom housings, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the T1 switch's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a more clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate is also aesthetically pleasing, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of housing materials, the Cherry MX Red and Durock T1 switches have key differences that impact the overall sound profile when typing. The nylon top housing of the MX Red creates a deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 produces a higher-pitched and crisper sound. However, both switches share nylon in their bottom housings, resulting in a similar experience in terms of sound depth and fullness. Overall, the switch housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke.
It is worth noting that if a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile can help users choose a switch that best fits their preferences for typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, the difference in actuation force is evident. The Cherry MX Red requires a light actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock T1 is unknown. However, the Durock T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The MX Red does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the Cherry MX Red is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Durock T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. These switches provide a consistent distance for users to travel from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This means that both switches will result in a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. However, while the distance is the same for both switches, the typing feel may vary due to the linear nature of the MX Red switch compared to the tactile feel of the T1 switch. Overall, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar user experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches provide a pleasant acoustic feedback during typing sessions, but the MX Red may offer a slightly deeper and richer tone compared to the T1. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel aspect, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, providing a subtle friction when pressed. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel, giving users a comfortable and smooth typing experience with a medium bump sensation. While the MX Red offers a tactile-free typing experience, the T1 provides a more dynamic keypress feel with varying levels of tactility throughout the keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness, allowing users to choose based on their personal typing style.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Red provides a slightly heftier and deeper sound profile with a textured feel, the T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and reminiscent sound of rain. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on the user's preference for sound depth, tactile feedback, and typing smoothness. Whether using the Cherry MX Red or the Durock T1, users can expect reliable performance and a pleasant typing experience regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that is super comfortable to type on with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the Durock T1 could be the right choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a robust and responsive typing experience (MX Red) or a more comfortable and tactile feel (T1). Consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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