KTT Laurel vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer unique advantages are the KTT Laurel, a linear switch, and the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch. The KTT Laurel is best known for its medium-light linear switch design, featuring a full POM housing and a short travel distance. This combination allows for a highly responsive typing experience with a comfortable feel. Additionally, the KTT Laurel switch produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which can be appealing to those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on the Durock Light Tactile switch offers an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. Categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, this switch provides a comfortable and smooth typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Durock Light Tactile differ in terms of the top housing material. The Laurel utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and vibrant typing sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material of the Light Tactile's top housing allows for the transmission of RGB lighting, providing an added visual appeal.
In relation to the bottom housing material, both the Laurel and the Light Tactile share the use of different materials. The Laurel incorporates a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of POM absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers a different typing experience. It provides a slightly softer and more cushioned bottom-out feel, which can be appealing for users seeking a smoother keystroke.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Laurel and the Light Tactile, it becomes evident that these materials contribute differently to the overall typing experience. Pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. While the Laurel and the Light Tactile differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of the Laurel's POM housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the Light Tactile's polycarbonate housing, both switches guarantee an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Laurel switch has a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams, meaning that it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Light Tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier to activate.
In terms of bottom out force, the Laurel switch has a force of 50 grams, which is still considered light. This means that it requires less force to fully depress the key, providing a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that it requires a slightly firmer press to fully bottom out the key, resulting in a more substantial typing sensation.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Laurel switch, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lighter. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, whether it be for work or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger and more substantial sensation when typing may lean towards the Light Tactile switch, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more pronounced feedback. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of length, the Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Laurel switch. The Laurel switch falls on the shallower end of the spectrum, with a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a suitable choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch offers a deeper travel distance of 4 mm, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches provide different options to cater to individual preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy. This means that it provides a highly responsive typing experience due to its longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is also described as polished, which indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Considering the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more mellow sound and a highly responsive feel. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, a mild typing experience, and a polished finish that ensures smooth and sleek key travel. These qualities make it suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, it is important to choose the switch that aligns with your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch that offers a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel is a great choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it provides a snappy and lively typing experience. The Laurel also produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding to its overall appeal. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle tactile switch, the Durock Light Tactile is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel, along with a super gentle tactility that is a welcome contrast to sharper tactile switches. The Light Tactile also has a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and the Light Tactile depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches and the level of responsiveness or gentleness you desire in your typing experience.
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