Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch, and the KTT Lightning, a linear switch. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, making it a refreshing choice among the sharper tactile switches available. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Lightnings are known for their approachable "speed" characteristics, making them a perfect choice for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning or losing. These switches offer a slick typing feel and produce a clacky sound profile. While these general characteristics provide a starting point for choosing between the Light Tactile and Lightning switches, it is important to explore further nuances to determine which switch suits your preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Lightning share similar housing materials with both featuring polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, making it a great option for those who want to customize their keyboard illumination. Both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the Lightning utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Although the two switches use different materials for the top and bottom housings, this distinction doesn't drastically impact the overall sound profile. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite this difference, both the Light Tactile and the Lightning will deliver comparable experiences in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the Light Tactile has a slightly heavier feel. The Light Tactile requires 52 grams of force to trigger a keystroke and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a more medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as a lighter option.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Lightning as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, which is ideal for individuals who require extended keyboard use at work or during lengthy gaming sessions. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with heavier forces like the Light Tactile. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces on the Light Tactile offer a stronger push feel that some users find more satisfying.
Although the Light Tactile and Lightning switches differ in weight, both provide users with a satisfying typing experience. If one desires a similarly lighter or heavier feel without access to these specific switches, they may look for alternatives with comparable actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Lightning switches, it is clear that the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Lightning's 3 mm. The Light Tactile's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the category of a more traditional distance, offering a satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the Lightning's 3.0 mm travel distance is shallower, which appeals to gamers seeking faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and increased responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a more pronounced keypress feel, the Light Tactile would be the optimal choice, whereas those looking for a quicker response may find the Lightning's shorter travel distance more appealing.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. It provides a pleasant and balanced typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you are using it at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch has a clacky sound profile. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright auditory feedback. Additionally, the Lightning switch is also described as high-pitched, which means it produces a sharp and crisp sound. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more distinct and percussive sound profile. 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 Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This means that it is a comfortable and approachable option for most users, as its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience. Similarly, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle typing feel. It has a gentle resistance that is not overly light but still maintains a comfortable light touch. Additionally, it is also described as polished, which suggests that it provides a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the KTT Lightning switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a clacky sound profile, giving a sharp and snappy auditory feedback, and a subtle typing feel with a polished finish. It is worth noting that both switches have a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, if you are looking for a softer and more gentle typing experience, the Light Tactile switch would be a suitable choice, while the Lightning switch is ideal for those who prefer a sharper and more distinct feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle and smooth typing experience, along with a moderate sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a great choice for you. Its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature provide a unique and pleasant typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Light Tactile switch offers the perfect balance.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and quick responsiveness in your typing, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. With its light bottom out force and slick type feel, these "speed" switches are ideal for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning or losing. The clacky sound profile adds a crisp and bright sound when pressing the switches, creating a satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Lightning switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value gentle tactility and a more neutral sound profile, go for the Light Tactile. If you prioritize speed and a clacky sound, the Lightning switch is the better option. Both switches offer polished finishes, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. Take into consideration the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel that align with your preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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