Durock Piano vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Durock Piano and the Jwick Taro. The Piano switch is well-known for its proprietary material blend, which makes it one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users often describe a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature when using these switches. On the other hand, the Taro switch stands out for its comfy subdued color scheme and a similarly cozy typing experience. It offers a snappy, medium level of tactility, resulting in acute and crisp clacks while typing. The Piano switch is categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, while the Taro switch is categorized as neutral, buttery, and stepped. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the Jwick Taro differ significantly in terms of the top housing. The Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing, while the Taro features a polycarbonate top housing. The POM blend in the Piano creates a satisfying and deep sound profile, although the specific details of the blend remain unknown. On the other hand, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing is also advantageous for those who want to use RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Piano again utilizes a proprietary POM blend, while the Taro features a nylon bottom housing. The POM blend in the Piano contributes to a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the specific details of this blend are unknown, it enhances the overall sound experience. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing in the Taro is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Durock Piano and the Jwick Taro, it is important to note that both switches aim to provide a satisfying sound profile. While the Piano utilizes a unique POM blend for its top and bottom housings, the Taro relies on polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches offer deep and satisfying sound profiles. However, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Piano's proprietary POM blend remains shrouded in mystery. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound characteristics and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is worth noting that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, meaning we do not have precise data on this aspect. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Durock Piano has a weight of 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Jwick Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, also classified as medium-heavy.
Considering the importance of weight in the typing experience, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Durock Piano switch, as it allows for extended periods of typing without fatigue. This lighter weight could be beneficial for those using the keyboard at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who seek a more substantial and forceful typing feel may prefer the Jwick Taro switch, as its slightly heavier weight of 67 grams can provide a satisfying push while typing.
However, since the actuation force for both switches is unknown, it is possible that they have similar actuation forces, which means users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches offer a reasonable amount of travel distance, with 4.0 mm being the more traditional option and 3.7 mm being slightly shallower. Nowadays, shorter travel distances are gaining popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, opting for the Taro switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Piano switch with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and needs.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Piano linear switch is best described as having a deep and creamy sound signature with a bassy profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a lower frequency range with a feeling of depth and richness similar to bass tones. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches is moderate, offering a balanced and suitable experience for both beginners and advanced users, whether you are using them at home or in a work environment. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the provided descriptions, the Piano switch offers a deeper and richer sound experience compared to the Taro switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Piano linear switch can be described as offering a frictionless and silky typing experience. This means that when pressing the keys, there is minimal resistance or friction, resulting in an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. The Taro tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as being buttery and stepped. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the stepped feature of the Taro switch means that it provides a mild tactile bump, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches offer pleasant typing experiences, but the Piano switch focuses on minimizing resistance and providing a fluid travel, while the Taro switch aims for a smooth and uniform typing sensation with a mild tactile element.
In conclusion, the Durock Piano linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Piano switch provides a deep, creamy, and bassy sound signature, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more rich and resonant typing experience. The switch offers a frictionless and silky feel, ensuring minimal resistance and a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and users. It provides a buttery, smooth, and stepped typing experience, offering a seamless and uniform sensation with a mild tactile bump. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasant and comfortable typing experience. Depending on your preferences, either switch can deliver satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a deep and creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano linear switches would be a great choice for you. These switches are known for their proprietary material blend, which provides a gliding push feel. Additionally, if you prefer a bassy sound profile during key presses, the Piano switches would be ideal.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a snappy and medium-level of tactility, the Jwick Taro tactile switches would be a better option. These switches offer a cozy typing experience and produce acute and crisp clacks. They also have a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Piano linear switches and the Jwick Taro tactile switches depends on your personal preferences. Both switches offer unique advantages in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a smoother typing experience with a bassy sound profile or a tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
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