Everglide Oreo vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Everglide Oreo and the Durock T1. The Oreo is renowned for its delectable treat-like experience, offering a crisp and highly responsive tactile bump followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It strikes the perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience, accompanied by a subtle, mellow sound. On the other hand, the T1 provides a super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Oreo and the Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tone. This is primarily due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is also advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the lighting effects and creates an aesthetically pleasing look. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and visual appeal when comparing the top housing of the Oreo and the T1.
In terms of their bottom housing, the Everglide Oreo utilizes polycarbonate, while the Durock T1 employs nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Oreo contributes to its overall sound profile, resulting in a sharper and clearer tone. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing in the T1 elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, users can expect different sound characteristics between the two switches when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The Oreo will deliver a crisper and more distinct sound upon keypress, while the T1 will offer a deeper and more resonant tone.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in determining the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the Oreo and T1 both feature polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials will result in variations in sound profiles and typing sensations. The Oreo will provide a sharper and clearer sound upon keypress but a relatively softer sound upon release. On the other hand, the T1 will offer a deeper and fuller sound during typing, as well as a softer sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, some notable differences emerge. The actuation force of the Oreo is 45 grams, while the T1's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Oreo requires 55 grams, whereas the T1 demands 67 grams. This signifies that the Oreo switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the T1 switch, which is considered medium-heavy. For those seeking a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of use, the Oreo switch would be a preferable choice, ideal for work or lengthy gaming sessions. However, individuals desiring a more substantial and forceful typing feel should opt for the T1 switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Regardless of the disparities, those using either switch can expect relatively similar outcomes based on their force requirements.
Travel distance
The Everglide Oreo and the Durock T1 tactile switches have identical travel distances of 4 mm. Both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key. Hence, users can expect similar tactile feedback and key feel from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch is best known for its crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. This switch offers a palatable medium light tactility, striking the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. When typing on the Oreo switch, we detect a subtle, mellow sound profile which can be described as chirpy, giving it a unique acoustic signature.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is best known for its super comfortable typing experience. It provides a medium bump when pressing down, and the sound can be compared to rain falling on a window. The T1 has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It is also described as a neutral switch, suitable for most intents and purposes, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, regardless of whether they are typing at home or work.
In terms of sound, the Oreo switch offers a subtle, mellow sound profile that can be described as chirpy, while the T1 switch has a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Additionally, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, both the Oreo and T1 switches are described as stepped and accented switches. Stepped switches provide a two-stage tactile feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, resulting in a mild tactile experience. Accented switches, on the other hand, provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, delivering a medium tactile experience. Both switches also offer a polished finish, meaning they have a smooth and refined surface, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Oreo and Durock T1 switches offer similar qualities in terms of tactile feel, with a medium bump and medium tactility. The Oreo switch has a slightly more chirpy sound profile, while the T1 switch has a low-pitched sound profile resembling the sound of rain falling on a window. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, making them suitable for users of all levels, and their polished finish ensures smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific sound and feel desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch that provides a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is a great choice. These switches offer a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. Additionally, the Oreo switches have a subtle, mellow sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a good fit for you. The T1 switches have a bottom out force that is medium-heavy, providing a different feel compared to the Oreo switches. They also have a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow.
Both switches have their own unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The Oreo switches are described as chirpy, offering a little squeak that sets them apart, while the T1 switches have a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, both switches share the same descriptors, with both being described as accented and stepped. This means that they provide a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, and have a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. Consider the specific characteristics of each switch and decide which qualities align with your typing style and preferences.
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