Durock Light Tactile vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches strike a balance with medium tactility and a light touch, making them a versatile option for users seeking a comfortable typing experience. While these general descriptions can help in making a decision, it's important to delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to determine which one best suits your needs. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that prioritize sound clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housings. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and rounder sound profile.
Despite their similar top housing materials, the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Violet Gold Pro showcase a variation in their housing materials when it comes to the bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile, creating a more satisfying typing experience. Nylon's softer nature provides a more muted sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This difference in material between the top and bottom housings influences the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch. While the top housing impacts the sound upon key release, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Both switches benefit from the different properties of these materials, creating a well-rounded sound profile that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with translucency for RGB lighting or a deeper sound with a softer feel, both switches offer a distinctive typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches, it is evident that the Light Tactile is the heavier option with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force indicates how much force is needed to press the switch fully. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Violet Gold Pro may be suitable. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Light Tactile being slightly on the longer side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the longer travel distance of the Light Tactile. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile feel but with slightly different travel distances to cater to different preferences.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, both the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches exhibit a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options suitable for various typing environments. The Light Tactile offers a soft jelly-like sound, while the Violet Gold Pro provides a balanced typing experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle tactility and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch features a stepped tactile feel, with a lighter touch for those seeking a more subtle tactile response. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience that falls within the realm of moderate tactility, catering to a wide range of typists.
Overall, whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile switch or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with their gentle tactility and neutral sound profiles. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound, as both options offer a well-rounded tactile typing experience that is sure to please newcomers and experienced mechanical keyboard enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle, angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Light Tactile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a bottom out force that isn't listed and are looking for a balanced typing experience with medium tactility and a fairly light touch, along with a neutral sound signature, then the Violet Gold Pro switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing experience.
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