Durock Light Tactile vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Oreo. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is renowned for its gentle tactility, providing a welcome departure from sharper tactile switches on the market. Typing on the Light Tactile switches evokes a heavenly tactile experience, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches offer a delectable treat for your fingertips. With a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Oreo switches strike the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. While the Light Tactile is characterized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Oreo switches are known for being accented, chirpy, and stepped. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Oreo, we see that both switches incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who want to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Light Tactile utilizes a nylon material, while the Oreo sticks with polycarbonate. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer quality allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to a harder plastic like polycarbonate. This distinction in the bottom housing material brings about a difference in the typing experience between these two switches. The Light Tactile's use of nylon contributes to a more mellow and less pronounced bottom-out sound and feel, while the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper auditory feedback.
In summary, both the Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Oreo share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, leading to a sharper and clearer sound profile. However, they diverge when it comes to the bottom housing, with the Light Tactile incorporating nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Oreo sticks with polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper auditory experience. Understanding the influence of these housing materials on sound production can help users make a more informed choice based on their desired typing and auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo switch, there are notable differences. The Durock Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, which means it requires a slightly heavier push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Everglide Oreo switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Durock Light Tactile switch also has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Everglide Oreo switch has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that when pressing the Durock Light Tactile switch, there will be a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Everglide Oreo switch offers a lighter touch for a smoother keystroke.
Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Everglide Oreo switch, as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more robust and tactile experience may opt for the Durock Light Tactile switch, as the heavier forces provide a satisfying push during typing. It is important to note that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between these switches, both offer a medium level of resistance, providing similar results in terms of the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the Everglide Oreo tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience in terms of travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile or the Everglide Oreo, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate level of sound and is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or in the workplace. The sound produced by the Light Tactile switch is described as jelly-like, providing a gentle and pleasing auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a unique acoustic signature described as chirpy. These switches have a slight squeak to them, setting them apart from other switches in terms of sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a gentle tactile bump that is not overwhelming or subtle, striking a balance that most users will find approachable. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used in the switch or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as accented. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is not overly intense but still noticeable. The Oreo switch falls into the category of a medium tactile switch, offering a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. It is important to note that the Oreo switch is also described as stepped, which means it has a two-stage feel. This means that users may feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, contributing to the overall tactile experience.
Based on the available information, the Durock Light Tactile and Everglide Oreo tactile switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound profile. It is a suitable option for those seeking a moderate, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Oreo switch offers a crisp and responsive tactile bump, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It has a subtle, mellow sound profile with a unique chirpy acoustic signature. Both switches aim to strike a balance between tactile feedback and overall comfort. It is important to consider personal preferences, such as desired tactility and sound, when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a gentle and angelic tactility along with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying keystroke while still maintaining a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. Furthermore, its mild and polished feel ensures a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the perfect option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it provides a medium-light tactility that strikes a balance between satisfaction and comfort. The Oreo switch also offers a subtle, mellow sound profile, adding to its unique appeal. Moreover, its accented and stepped feel provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy, and offers a two-stage keystroke experience with pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Light Tactile and Everglide Oreo tactile switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider the qualities described above and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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