Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Rose. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is renowned for its gentle tactility, providing a delightful contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches grants an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Rose switches offer more than just visual appeal. With the use of progressive springs, these switches deliver a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. The sound produced is reminiscent of bassy raindrops. While these generalities can help you make an initial choice, it's essential to delve deeper into each switch's intricacies to determine the best fit for your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Rose both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches are likely to provide similar results in terms of sound quality and are visually appealing when used with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the Rose utilize nylon as the material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches are expected to offer a similar typing experience with a deeper sound when using the nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall impact of the different housing materials, it is important to note how they affect specific aspects of the switch. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the Light Tactile and the Rose may have some differences in sound and feel due to the unique qualities of their top and bottom housings, they are expected to provide similar results overall.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the actuation force of the KTT Rose is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also classified as medium-heavy. Although we don't have the exact actuation force for the Rose switch, it is safe to assume that it would have a similar force to the Durock Light Tactile, given that both falls under the medium-heavy category for bottom out force. When it comes to weight, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Durock Light Tactile, as it allows for longer typing durations and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the KTT Rose or options with heavier forces. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different tactile experiences for users to choose from based on their preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Rose switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, if comparing their travel distances, we can say that they both provide a similar tactile experience. When pressing down on a key, users will feel the same amount of distance traveled with either switch. Thus, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 that is described as a jelly-like sound signature. This switch provides a gentle and moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch has a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Typing on these switches produces a pleasing sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops. 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, both the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Rose switches offer a mild typing experience. These switches provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches stand in a safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable typing experience for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Taking into account the available information, the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Rose switches have some distinct differences in sound, with the Light Tactile providing a jelly-like sound signature and the Rose offering a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone. However, both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel. If you are looking for a switch that is gentle in tactility and produces angelic sound with a jelly-like signature, the Light Tactile is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone, the Rose switch will deliver that unique typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide a middle-ground feel and a polished finish for an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a gentle and smooth tactility, along with 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 provides a medium-heavy typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, making it versatile for use at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, accompanied by a unique typing experience that is both substantial and not heavy, then the KTT Rose linear switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a medium-heavy actuation force requirement and a mellow tone. Both switches offer a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Rose switches depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience.
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