KTT Matcha vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Durock T1 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that belong to the tactile switch family. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Matcha is best known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing users with a pleasurable typing sensation. Additionally, it boasts a clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the T1 is renowned for its exceptional comfort while typing, offering a medium bump when pressed down. Its sound is reminiscent of the calming sound of rain falling on a window. Both switches fit into the 'stepped' and 'accented' categories, providing that extra tactile feedback. The Matcha is described as 'clacky', 'snappy', and 'feathery', while the T1 exhibits 'low-pitched', 'neutral', and 'polished' qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a similar sound profile. The polycarbonate material offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness and resonance. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. So, if you are looking for a switch with these specific sound and aesthetic qualities, both the Matcha and the T1 would be suitable options.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housings of these two switches. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate, while the T1 features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on the Matcha with its polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a similar sound experience to its top housing, which means a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the T1's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, if you prefer a switch with a more muted and profound sound, the T1 with its nylon bottom housing would be a better choice.
When pressing down on either the Matcha or the T1 switches, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more apparent. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. So, while the top housing may impact the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing material will contribute more to the overall sound and feel when you press down on a key. Therefore, if the sound and tactile experience during key presses are your main considerations, it is important to take into account the differences between the bottom housing materials of these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams, which is relatively light, while its bottom out force is 45 grams, indicating a lightweight typing experience overall. In contrast, the T1's actuation force is currently unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, suggesting a medium-heavy switch. It is worth mentioning that if the actuation forces of both switches were the same, one could expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Weight plays a crucial role in keyboard preferences; some prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while others opt for a heavier push to enhance the tactile feedback. Therefore, those seeking a lighter feel may choose the Matcha, whereas individuals desiring a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the T1 switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent 4 mm distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. This provides a satisfying and responsive feel while typing. Additionally, the Matcha switch produces a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when the switch is pressed. Overall, the Matcha switch offers a tactile typing experience with a clean and satisfying sound.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is also super comfortable to type on. It offers a medium bump when pressing down, providing a noticeable tactile feedback. The sound of the T1 switch is described as low-pitched, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes the T1 switch suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In conclusion, both the KTT Matcha and the Durock T1 tactile switches offer comfortable typing experiences with tactile feedback. The Matcha switch provides a comfortable and snappy feel, while the T1 switch offers a medium bump tactile feedback. The Matcha switch produces a clean bottom-out sound, while the T1 switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of feel and sound. However, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider.
In terms of bottom out force, the Matcha has a lighter force at 45 grams, while the T1 has a medium-heavy force at 67 grams. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Matcha would be a better choice, while the T1 might appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel.
In terms of sound, the Matcha is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound. On the other hand, the T1 is described as low-pitched and neutral, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you enjoy a crisp and bright sound, the Matcha would suit you, while if you prefer a more gentle and moderate sound, the T1 would be a good option.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as stepped and accented, providing a noticeable tactile bump. However, the Matcha is also described as snappy and feathery, offering a highly responsive experience with a light actuation force. The T1, on the other hand, is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. If you prioritize a light and responsive feel, the Matcha would be a great choice, while if you value smoothness and refined key travel, the T1 would be more suitable.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch would enhance your typing experience the most. Whether you prefer a lighter touch with a snappy sound or a slightly heavier touch with a mellow sound, both the KTT Matcha and Durock T1 tactile switches offer unique characteristics that can elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.
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