Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Strawberry. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is highly regarded for its gentle tactility, offering a refreshing change from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches provides a heavenly tactile experience, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch from KTT is cherished for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Sporting attractive pink and clear housings, these switches deliver a low-pitched and frictionless typing experience, often described as silky and buttery. While these general descriptions give us a glimpse into the key characteristics of each switch, diving deeper into the specifications and personal preferences will help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Strawberry have similar housing materials, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal, making it ideal for users planning to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch with clear, resonant sound and vibrant lighting effects, both the Light Tactile and the Strawberry would provide similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Light Tactile incorporates a nylon material, while the Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the Light Tactile, with its nylon bottom housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Strawberry contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to the impact of the polycarbonate top housing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. The qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Light Tactile or the Strawberry, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. So, users of both switches can expect differences in the sound and feel based on the chosen housing material for the top and bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Light Tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. This means that the Light Tactile switch requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Tactile switch is heavier with 67 grams, while the Strawberry has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. Overall, the Light Tactile switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, while the Strawberry offers a slightly lighter experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Strawberry would be the ideal choice. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Light Tactile switch would be the better option.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of 4 mm. Although they have the same travel distance, it's important to note that these switches have different characteristics. The Light Tactile switch offers a tactile bump, providing feedback to the user when the switch actuates, while the Strawberry switch is a linear switch without any tactile feedback. So, while the travel distance may be the same, the tactile experience and overall feel of the keystrokes will differ between these 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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. The sound produced by these switches is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound produced by the Strawberry switch adds a unique touch to the typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Depending on these factors, you can expect similar results from both switches.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The switch has a gentle tactility that stands in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This combination of mild tactility and polished feel provides a sleek and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Similar to the Light Tactile, the Strawberry switch also has a polished finish, further enhancing the smoothness of the typing feel. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant and comfortable typing experience, but with slightly different characteristics.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It provides an angelic and approachable typing experience with its mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It offers a unique low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and can provide enjoyable typing experiences. However, depending on individual preferences, the Light Tactile may be preferred for its gentle tactility, while the Strawberry switch may be favored for its smoothness and low-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a gentle and unique tactility in your keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile switches are the way to go. With their angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature, typing on these switches is a delightful experience. The Light Tactile switches also offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments, whether you're using them at home or in an office. In terms of feel, these switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, striking a balance between comfort and smoothness.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switches are an excellent choice. These switches boast delectable pink and clear housings and are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With a low-pitched sound profile, the Strawberry switches offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone, adding to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, if you desire a unique tactile experience with a moderate sound profile, opt for the Durock Light Tactile switches. However, if a smooth and frictionless typing sensation is what you seek, the KTT Strawberry linear switches are the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and prioritize either gentle tactility or smooth actuation to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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