Durock T1 vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself comparing the Durock T1 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue. The T1 is a tactile switch that is best known for its super comfortable typing experience, featuring a medium bump with a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is a linear switch that offers a deep and satisfying thocky sound profile. It boasts a bouncy feel with each keystroke, thanks to its lengthened single-stage spring. These switches strike a balance with their standard spring weight, making them enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock T1 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who wish to use RGB lighting in their setup. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the T1 differs by using nylon while the Tourmaline Blue also uses polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. It is worth noting that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
In summary, the T1 and the Tourmaline Blue share similarities in the sound profile created by their polycarbonate top housing. However, they differ in terms of the bottom housing material. The T1's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Therefore, users can expect variations in sound when releasing a key depending on the switch they choose, as the top housing material has more influence in this aspect.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the T1's force is currently unavailable, whereas the Tourmaline Blue requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. This means that despite the difference in actuation force, the end result of the typing experience would be similar in terms of the force required to fully press the keys.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Tourmaline Blue, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force, which is currently unknown for the T1. It is important to note that the T1 has a higher bottom out force compared to its actuation force, suggesting a greater resistance at the bottom of the keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference in terms of the desired force required for typing.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will offer a similar experience in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the T1 or Tourmaline Blue, you can expect a consistent 4 mm travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile or linear keystroke, respectively.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 Durock T1 switch produces a low-pitched sound that is often described as bass-heavy and mellow. This sound profile is reminiscent of rain falling on a window, creating a soothing and calming auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it suitable for most users, regardless of their typing style or environment. Both switches provide satisfying sound qualities, with the T1 offering a unique low-pitched ambiance and the Tourmaline Blue ensuring versatility and adaptability to various typing situations. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock T1 switch is known for its stepped and accented tactile characteristics. It provides a two-stage tactile experience, where users can feel some pre-travel and post-travel, while also experiencing a moderate level of tactility. These qualities create a comfortable typing experience that strikes a balance between pronounced tactility and a smooth keystroke. Additionally, the T1 switch is described as polished, indicating a refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is often referred to as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation. It offers an easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force to activate, which enhances comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Tourmaline Blue switch also falls under the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Overall, both switches provide comfortable and enjoyable typing experiences, with the T1 emphasizing on stepped and polished qualities, while the Tourmaline Blue focuses on a buttery and easy-to-press feel.
In conclusion, the Durock T1 tactile switch and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The T1 switch produces a low-pitched sound profile that is reminiscent of rain, providing a pleasant and relaxing auditory experience. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue switch offers a neutral sound profile that caters to a wide range of users and circumstances. In terms of feel, the T1 switch features stepped, accented, and polished characteristics, delivering a comfortable and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch is known for its buttery, easy-to-press, and mild qualities, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke. Whether one prefers the T1's medium bump and rain-like sound, or the Tourmaline Blue's bouncy feel and thocky sound, both switches guarantee an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a stepped and accented feel with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The T1 also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound profile that immerses you in a satisfying typing experience, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch would be a fantastic option. It provides a bouncy feel with each keystroke due to its lengthened single-stage spring. The Tourmaline Blue offers a buttery and easy-to-press feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. Its sound profile is also described as neutral, making it versatile for various use cases.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch depends on your personal preferences for the typing experience. Consider factors such as the level of tactility, sound profile, and overall feel that align with your desired typing style. With both switches having a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, they should provide satisfying feedback for most users.
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