TTC Bluish White vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, the TTC Bluish White and the Durock T1 are excellent options to consider. The Bluish White is known for its buttery, mild, and stepped tactile feedback, providing a subtle and polished typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the T1 offers a super comfortable typing experience, with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished, the T1 provides a unique and enjoyable typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Durock T1 switches have many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. The top housing also plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
On the other hand, the switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the T1 also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon in the bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience with their unique properties. While the sound profiles may vary slightly due to the differentiation in materials, they both offer quality materials for keyboard enthusiasts. Whether it's the sharp and crisp sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing, both the TTC Bluish White and the Durock T1 guarantee a satisfying typing experience. So, while they may have distinct characteristics, keyboard enthusiasts can expect similar results when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Bluish White has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams, making it effortless to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force of the T1 is unknown, which hinders direct comparison. However, it is essential to note that the T1 has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Bluish White is lighter overall, allowing for extended typing without causing fatigue, which is ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the T1 is heavier due to its higher bottom out force, providing a more satisfying tactile response. So, depending on individual preferences, one can choose the TTC Bluish White for a lighter and smoother typing experience or opt for the Durock T1 for a more substantial and satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the T1 has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm. The T1's 4 mm travel distance falls within the realm of the most traditional travel distance, offering a good depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Bluish White's shorter travel distance may be appealing to gamers and those seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances are known to contribute to quicker reactions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - those desiring a more responsive and snappy feel may opt for the Bluish White, while those in search of a deeper key press may find the T1 to be a better fit. Similar results, in terms of travel distance, can be expected from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is best known for its low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a satisfying and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch also features a low-pitched sound, providing a similar bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a soothing sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, making them suitable for various typing preferences and environments. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a range of desirable qualities. It is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This results in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch is also characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe and middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Bluish White switch is considered stepped, meaning that it provides a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Its subtleness and polished finish contribute to reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
Similarly, the Durock T1 tactile switch exhibits a stepped feel, giving it a mild tactility with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel characteristics. This makes it a comfortable switch to type on without an overwhelming or subtle tactile sensation. The T1 switch also features a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Its reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a sleek and enjoyable feel while typing. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, characterized by a mild tactile feel and a polished finish.
In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White and Durock T1 tactile switches offer desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a low-pitched sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, they share characteristics such as a stepped feel, offering a mild tactile sensation with pre-travel and/or post-travel elements. Both switches also feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While there may be slight differences between the switches based on individual preferences, it is safe to say that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both the TTC Bluish White and Durock T1 switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, the decision between TTC Bluish White tactile switches or the Durock T1 tactile switches will ultimately depend on your preferences and typing style. If you desire a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a snappy sound profile, the Bluish White switches may be the better choice for you. These switches provide a satisfyingly poppy typing experience and have a low-pitched sound, which features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Bluish White switches are described as buttery, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle resistance. They are also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams and a sound that resembles rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 switches could be a great option. These switches are super comfortable to type on, with a medium bump when pressed down. In terms of sound, they also have a low-pitched profile, similar to the Bluish Whites. Additionally, the T1 switches have a stepped feel, meaning you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, and they are accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Like the Bluish Whites, the T1 switches are also polished for a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. Consider factors such as desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when selecting between the TTC Bluish White and Durock T1 tactile switches. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. So, whether you prefer the poppy and smooth feel of the Bluish Whites or the comfortable and accented feel of the T1 switches, you can enjoy a satisfying and enjoyable time with either option.
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