Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, we see a distinct difference in their primary characteristics. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is celebrated for its gentle tactility, offering a softer touch compared to other tactile switches in the market. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch by KTT is known for its smooth keystroke action and stem stability, thanks to the incorporation of POK in its stem. While the Light Tactile is classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Miaowu falls under the categories of 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Each switch has its unique appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and KTT Miaowu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is especially useful if RGB lighting is a priority, as its translucency allows for a vibrant glow. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Light Tactile uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, while the Miaowu also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Miaowu offer slightly different sound profiles due to their respective bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a dulled and rounder sound, with the typing experience being impacted more by this material. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the unique characteristics of each switch.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Miaowu may differ in their bottom housing, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their nylon construction. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches creates a distinct sound profile, with a sharper and crisper tone that is enhanced by RGB lighting. Whether choosing the Light Tactile or Miaowu, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality and overall performance.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch are heavier compared to the KTT Miaowu linear switch. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The difference in weight between the two switches means that the Light Tactile will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Miaowu will offer a lighter typing experience, perfect for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Light Tactile offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper keystroke experience, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Miaowu's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals seeking a faster response time in their keystrokes. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Light Tactile being slightly longer and the Miaowu being slightly shorter in travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 more neutral and moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a clacky and sharp sound that can add a crisp and bright touch to typing. Both switches can be affected by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, but the Light Tactile will give a more subtle and jelly-like sound compared to the clacky and percussive sound of the Miaowu.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience that is gentle and refined. The switch falls in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing a smooth and sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch offers a bouncy feedback sensation, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. The Miaowu switch provides a more elastic and spring-like typing experience compared to the gentler and more polished feel of the Light Tactile.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Light Tactile provides a mild and polished feel along with a neutral sound profile, the Miaowu offers a bouncy feel and a clacky sound. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and sound output. However, both switches are high-quality options that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup, providing different but equally satisfying results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu switch, consider your preferences for tactility, bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a gentle and smoother tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more bouncy and clacky sound profile, the KTT Miaowu switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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