Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Orange switches. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is well-known for its gentle tactility, offering a refreshing departure from the sharper tactile switches commonly available in the market. Typing on the Light Tactile switch provides an angelic tactility paired with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches boast a bouncy type feel, thanks to their 22mm long spring. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, these switches afford a slick and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the KTT Orange switches come factory-lubed, ensuring refined and fluid key travel that minimizes friction and maximizes smoothness. Now that we have a general overview of these switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Orange, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material offers similar benefits for both switches, such as a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Aesthetically, these switches will have a similar appearance due to the clear housing. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and visual effects when using these switches.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Orange switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Like its top housing counterpart, this material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is important to note that the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a unique tactile experience for the Light Tactile switch.
Overall, while the top housings of the Light Tactile and the Orange switches are made of the same material, their bottom housings differ. This distinction means that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of each switch. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound and appearance due to the shared polycarbonate top housing. However, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Therefore, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired tactile experience and preferred sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, some notable differences emerge. The Durock Light Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the KTT Orange switch's 46 grams, making it slightly more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Durock Light Tactile switch requires a heavier force at 67 grams, while the KTT Orange switch is lighter at 53 grams. This means that the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the KTT Orange switch provides a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Essentially, one can achieve similar results in terms of weight preference with both switches by selecting the Durock Light Tactile for a heavier feel or the KTT Orange for a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Orange switches have different travel distances. The Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both distances fall within the range of what is typically considered comfortable for typing or gaming, with 4 mm being the more traditional option. However, if you prioritize faster response times, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may be more suitable for your needs. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as they allow for quicker key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance may be a better choice. Some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, so the longer travel distance of the Light Tactile switch would provide a more satisfying typing experience for them. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate tone that is suitable for various 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 Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a different auditory experience compared to the Light Tactile switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing approachable qualities for most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is due to either the materials used or the factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. Pressing the keys will result in a lively feel with rebound. Moreover, the switch is described as frictionless, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience by minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The fluid travel of the switch adds to its appeal.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the KTT Orange switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides an angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, contrasting with the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound with a slick, frictionless typing experience. It has a bouncy feel and provides a smooth key travel experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a gentler tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild typing experience, with a polished and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy type feel and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch is the way to go. With a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light actuation force that is suitable for most users. The Orange switch features a frictionless typing experience thanks to its excellent factory-lubing, resulting in a fluid key travel and minimal resistance. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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