Durock T1 vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Two notable tactile switches in this realm are the Durock T1 and the Gateron Weightlessness, each offering unique experiences to users. The Durock T1 is celebrated for its remarkable comfort, featuring a medium bump during key press that provides satisfying tactile feedback, reminiscent of the gentle sound of rain tapping against a window. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness shines with its subtle to moderate tactile feel, allowing for a more understated typing experience that still maintains a balanced sound profile. While the T1 is characterized by its stepped, low-pitched accents that elevate the tactile sensation, the Weightlessness emphasizes a smoother interaction with a well-rounded auditory presence. Each switch has its merits, with the Durock T1 appealing to those who enjoy pronounced feedback and a distinct auditory experience, while the Gateron Weightlessness caters to users who prefer a more subdued but equally satisfying typing journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock T1 and the Gateron Weightlessness, we see a distinct difference in their top housing components. The T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sounds produced during typing. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, making the switch visually appealing in backlit setups. In contrast, the Weightlessness is equipped with a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its softer texture that yields a duller and rounder sound profile. The nylon's sound-absorbing properties provide a deeper and fuller auditory experience, enhancing the tactile feedback during key presses.
On the bottom housing front, both the T1 and the Weightlessness rely on nylon material. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving it a rounder feel with each keystroke. Since both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, the typing experience in terms of sound absorption and tactile feedback remains consistent across both models. This shared characteristic will likely enhance the feeling of stability during key presses, regardless of the differences in the top housings. Consequently, this similarity in bottom housing material helps create a unified core experience for both switches despite the disparities in their upper constructions.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings shapes the overall typing experience of each switch. With the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 enhancing clarity and resonance alongside the nylon bottom, the resultant sound profile is distinctive. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness benefits from an entirely nylon construction that promotes a consistency in sound absorption and tactile response. If you are seeking to achieve a unique auditory experience, the polycarbonate T1 will deliver a sharper response, whereas the Weightlessness will provide a softer and deeper tone. Both switches, however, will offer satisfying typing experiences thanks to their nylon bottom housings, creating a harmonious balance despite the material differences in the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are key differences regarding their actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which provides a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter switch, potentially more comfortable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the actuation force for the Durock T1 is unknown, which means that its characteristics regarding keystroke triggering remain unclear. Additionally, the Weightlessness also has an unknown bottom out force, indicating that the specifics of its pressure point upon bottoming out are not available. As such, users looking for a heavier feel may gravitate toward the Durock T1, while those who prefer a lighter switch for extended use might find the Gateron Weightlessness more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Durock T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that the T1 provides a more pronounced depth, which some users may find preferable for a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for tactile feedback; those who enjoy a heartier feel might lean towards the Durock T1, whereas those looking for responsiveness might opt for the Gateron Weightlessness.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 sound profile of the Durock T1 tactile switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone that has a bass-heavy and mellow quality, reminiscent of rain falling against a window. This neutral sound balance makes the T1 versatile, suitable for both home and work environments, as it maintains a moderate actuation sound that does not overpower its surroundings. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches do not have a specified sound description. However, their balanced sound profile is noted to complement their tactile characteristics, suggesting they likely present a pleasant auditory experience without significant harshness.
When it comes to feel, the Durock T1 shines with its stepped tactile profile, offering a medium bump that accommodates a smooth typing experience. It possesses accentuated tactile feedback that ensures an enjoyable balance between not being too overwhelming or too subtle. The polished quality of the T1 further enhances this experience, providing a refined and smooth action with minimal friction. On the other hand, the Weightlessness switches offer a subtle to moderate tactile feel, which indicates a more nuanced tactile feedback but lacks the detailed descriptors seen with the T1. Thus, while the specific feel of the Weightlessness isn't detailed, it may still provide a comfortable typing sensation, albeit potentially less pronounced.
In summary, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a rich auditory experience with its low-pitched, mellow sound and an engaging tactile feedback due to its stepped and polished characteristics. The Gateron Weightlessness, while lacking detailed information on sound and tactile sensations, is described as having a balanced sound and a subtle to moderate tactile feel. While users can expect comfortable typing experiences from both switches, those seeking a more nuanced and refined tactile experience might gravitate towards the T1, while others may appreciate the simplicity of the Weightlessness. Regardless of choice, each switch brings its unique features that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between Durock T1 and Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches boils down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a medium-heavy tactile experience, the Durock T1 may be your best choice, particularly if you enjoy a distinct bump and a satisfying low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain. These characteristics make the T1 an excellent option for those who prioritize comfort and auditory feedback while typing, whether for work or leisure. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feel with balanced acoustics, you might gravitate towards the Gateron Weightlessness switches. While they offer a gentle tactile sensation, they excel in quieter environments, allowing for a more understated typing experience. Ultimately, consider the weight, sound profile, and tactile feedback that feels right for you, as each switch brings its own unique set of advantages to the mechanical keyboard landscape.
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