Durock Sea Glass vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Sea Glass linear switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sea Glass stands out with its captivating pastel colors and distinct dry, wispy, and airy typing experience. Despite a 62g bottom-out force, these switches feel weightless and glide effortlessly, producing a hollow sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" boasts innovative factory lubing techniques and a deeper sound spectrum. Positioned as a medium-weight switch, the Type A offers a neutral and subdued typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
P3+
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and the Gateron Type A switches show some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, with the Sea Glass incorporating a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for the top and bottom housings. The Sea Glass's blend offers a sound profile that is bright and pleasant, while the Type A's use of nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Sea Glass.
While both switches share the use of nylon in their top housing, the Sea Glass stands out with its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This blend contributes to a brighter sound profile, distinguishing it from the deeper sound produced by the Type A's classic nylon top housing. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, with the Sea Glass's blend offering a similarly bright and pleasant sound profile as its top housing, whereas the Type A's nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches is evident in how the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Despite their differences, both the Sea Glass and the Type A switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both fall within the medium range, with the Sea Glass being slightly lighter overall. The Sea Glass has an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Sea Glass has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. Users who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Sea Glass for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Type A. The differences in force may result in slightly different typing experiences, but overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Glass has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Type A has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances for switches. Gamers may prefer the Sea Glass for its shorter travel distance, as it can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Type A with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
The Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature, creating a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch produces a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Sea Glass emphasizing its light, airy sound and the Type A offering a more subtle, muffled sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Sea Glass linear switch is described as frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. This makes typing on the Sea Glass switches comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is currently unavailable. However, based on the characteristics of a neutral switch like the Type A, one can expect a moderate actuation force requirement and a versatile typing feel suitable for various purposes.
In summary, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Glass provides a unique typing experience with its light and hollow sound, as well as a smooth and effortless feel due to its frictionless nature. On the other hand, the Type A offers a more subdued sound profile and a versatile typing experience with its moderate actuation force requirement. Depending on your preferences and typing style, both switches can provide an enjoyable and responsive typing experience, although they differ in their sound and feel characteristics. By understanding these differences, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the following: If you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a distinct dry and airy typing experience with a hollow sound signature, the Sea Glass may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are seeking.
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