Durock T1 vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Durock T1, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type L, a linear switch. The T1 is well-known for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. It is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" and is praised for its lightness, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press', the Type L offers a smooth 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
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Durock T1 uses a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Gateron Type L's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material is known for being relatively stiffer, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound, while nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in housing materials leads to a distinct auditory experience when typing on these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Durock T1 and the Gateron Type L use nylon material. This means that both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing of a switch typically has a more significant impact on the sound when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material also contributes to the overall typing experience on these switches.
Overall, the choice between the Durock T1 and the Gateron Type L housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the T1 produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Type L provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who enjoy a softer and more rounded typing sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their housing construction.
Weight
The Durock T1 tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the T1 is not specified, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams. The T1 offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing feel. On the other hand, the Type L provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures consistent typing experiences for users who prefer either tactile or linear switches. Additionally, the identical travel distance can make it easier for users to transition between keyboards with these different switch types without a significant adjustment period. In conclusion, the Durock T1 and Gateron Type L switches offer the same travel distance, providing a familiar typing feel regardless of the switch type chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a subdued quality, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, but the T1's sound might be more reminiscent of a calming rain sound while the Type L offers a deeper and more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented tactile sensation that provides a medium bump with a smooth and polished finish, resulting in a comfortable and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch presents a feathery and easy-to-press feel that requires minimal exertion from the fingers, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the T1 providing a more accentuated tactile sensation compared to the lighter and smoother feel of the Type L.
Overall, the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch each have their distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The T1 offers a medium bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a comfortable typing experience with a stepped and accented tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Type L delivers a lighter actuation force with a subdued sound signature, offering a feathery and easy-to-press feel for reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, with the T1 focusing more on tactile feedback and sound, while the Type L emphasizes a lighter and smoother typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a comfortable typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile, the T1 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a feathery feel and easy-to-press key presses, the Type L might be more suited to your needs. Consider how you type, the sound profile you prefer, and the level of tactility you enjoy before making your decision. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing the one that aligns with your typing style will enhance your overall typing experience.
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