Durock Sea Glass vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Sea Glass and the Gateron Type L each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Sea Glass switch series by Durock stands out for its captivating pastel colors and distinct typing experience, characterized by dryness, wispiness, and airiness. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, the Sea Glass switches feel weightless and produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," boasts a lighter actuation force of 45g and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both switches are easy-to-press and offer a feathery 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
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and the Gateron Type L switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Sea Glass utilizing a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend while the Type L features nylon housing. The Sea Glass's blend creates a bright and pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp, while the Type L's nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound that is rounder in nature. Despite these differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Sea Glass's blend and the Type L's nylon offer qualities that impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The Sea Glass's blend provides a bright and pleasant sound profile, while the Type L's nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to the Sea Glass's blend. However, both materials contribute to the overall typing experience in their own unique ways.
When considering the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, the differences between the Sea Glass's blend and the Type L's nylon become more pronounced. The Sea Glass's blend offers a brighter and more pleasant sound profile, while the Type L's nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches, providing users with a unique typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is the lighter option while the Sea Glass is the heavier option. The Sea Glass has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Type L, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the Sea Glass may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it a slightly shorter option compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a slightly more deliberate feel, the Gateron Type L may be the better choice for you. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the Sea Glass and Type L switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer.
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 L 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 Durock Sea Glass linear switch provides a uniquely hollow sound signature, creating an airy and wispiness that adds a distinctive character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch delivers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, offering a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Sea Glass offering a lighter and more hollow sound, while the Type L presents a deeper and more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is described as frictionless, offering an effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction during key presses. Additionally, it provides a mild and feathery feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Gateron Type L linear switch also offers a feathery and easy-to-press experience, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing fatigue during extended use. Both switches provide a smooth and gentle typing experience, with the Sea Glass emphasizing a frictionless feel and the Type L focusing on a light and easy-to-press actuation.
Overall, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Glass provides a unique hollow sound signature and a frictionless typing experience, while the Type L offers a deeper sound profile and a light and easy-to-press feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can cater to different needs and provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Sea Glass or the Type L, you can expect a pleasant and efficient typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a medium bottom-out force with a unique hollow sound and weightless feel, the Sea Glass may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force with a deeper sound and light typing experience, the Type L could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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