Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Matcha both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a more subtle and softer typing experience compared to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. With an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, it offers a refreshing alternative for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is praised for its comfortable and snappy tactility, delivering a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, this switch boasts a distinct clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While these general descriptions may give you a glimpse into the advantages of each switch, let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Matcha both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The clear translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination. In terms of aesthetics and sound, both switches will yield similar results.
However, while the Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, the Matcha utilizes another layer of polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This difference in material affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha aligns with its top housing, aiming for a sharper and more resonant sound profile.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent. Therefore, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing a deeper and rounder experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha will contribute to a sharper and crisper bottom-out response.
In summary, both the Light Tactile and the Matcha benefit from polycarbonate top housing, resulting in similar sharp and clear sound profiles. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material: nylon for the Light Tactile and polycarbonate for the Matcha. This discrepancy impacts the overall sound experience when pressing down on the keys, with the Light Tactile providing a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nylon material, while the Matcha focuses on a sharper and more resonant bottom-out experience with its stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams, indicating a medium-heavy force required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Matcha requires less force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Light Tactile. Similarly, when considering the bottom out force, the Light Tactile requires a force of 67 grams, which is once again heavier than the Matcha's 45 grams.
Weight is an important factor to consider, as it directly impacts typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha switch would be an ideal choice. The reduced actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless keystrokes, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Light Tactile switch. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push, resulting in a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Matcha switches offer contrasting forces, with the Light Tactile being heavier and the Matcha offering a lighter touch. Depending on personal preference and typing requirements, users can choose between these switches for their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Matcha tactile switches have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Although they have the same travel distance, it is worth noting that the Light Tactile switch and the Matcha switch are produced by different manufacturers and may have varying characteristics in terms of tactility and sound. Nonetheless, if you are specifically considering travel distance as a factor for your keyboard switch choice, both the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Matcha switches will provide similar results
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
The Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch provides a distinct clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. It is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground zone. It is described as mild and polished, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
The KTT Matcha switch, on the other hand, offers a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility. It is described as stepped, snappy, and accented. The switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it a medium tactile switch. Additionally, the Matcha switch is responsive and feels more alive due to the longer or dual-staged springs used.
In summary, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a gentle tactility, neutral sound profile, and offers a polished and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch provides a comfortable, snappy tactility, clacky sound, and a stepped feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a gentler and more refined typing experience, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a sharper and more responsive feel, along with a distinct bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha switch would be a better fit.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle tactility, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a great choice. It offers a unique and pleasant typing experience, with an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. The Light Tactile switch is also described as having a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. In terms of sound, it is neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the way to go. It offers a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, with a distinct clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. The Matcha switch is described as having multiple characteristics, including being stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. These attributes contribute to its responsive and lively feel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Matcha tactile switch depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. Consider your typing style, environment, and desired typing experience to make an informed decision. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
