Durock Medium Tactile vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Peach can be a tough one. On one hand, the Medium Tactile by Durock is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this tactile switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Peach switches by KTT boast a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', these linear switches have garnered attention for their prized characteristics. Both switches have their own set of advantages, making it difficult to choose just one. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Peach, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. From an aesthetic perspective, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Overall, the top housing of both switches offers similar qualities and is likely to produce comparable results in terms of sound and visual appeal.
While their top housings share similarities, the Medium Tactile and the Peach differ in their use of housing materials for the bottom. The Medium Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. In contrast, the Peach also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a unique typing experience.
It's important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material become divided between the two parts. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in determining the sound and feel upon bottoming out a key, while the top housing greatly influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the Medium Tactile and the Peach will exhibit distinguishing characteristics in terms of sound depending on the combination of their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Durock Medium Tactile has an unavailable actuation force, while the Peach requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile measures 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Peach requires a lighter force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.
Weight becomes an important factor when selecting switches as it directly impacts typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Peach, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for extended typing periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Durock Medium Tactile's heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel during keystrokes. Both switches offer their unique advantages, catering to the preferences and requirements of different users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch are both 4 mm. Therefore, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the KTT Peach, you can expect the same 4 mm travel distance, ensuring a consistent tactile feedback and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium Tactile for $4.25.
The KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 Medium Tactile switch from Durock is best described as having a pronounced yet balanced tactility, with a jelly-like sound signature. It provides a unique and satisfying sound experience while typing, although the exact details of its sound profile are not specified. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch is known for its deep, thocky sound profile. It offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. This creates a pleasant and immersive typing sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Therefore, while the Medium Tactile and Peach switches may have different sound characteristics, the overall typing experience can still be enjoyable and satisfying with both switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a range of qualities. It is described as an accented switch, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. This results in a satisfying typing experience with a noticeable and balanced tactile feedback. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch is also described as stepped, which means it has two stages of tactile feedback. This provides a more mild and nuanced tactile experience by offering pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Furthermore, the Medium Tactile switch is categorized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. It has qualities that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable and comfortable for most typists. Lastly, the switch is labeled as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. The Peach switch from KTT is also described as mild, offering a similar gentle typing experience to the Medium Tactile switch.
Considering all the available information, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound profile. It provides a satisfying typing experience with accented and stepped tactile feedback, as well as a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch is known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. While the sound and feel of these switches may differ, they both offer qualities that appeal to users seeking a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and KTT Peach switches will depend on the individual's personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile switch would be your best choice. It offers a jelly-like sound signature that enhances your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Peach switch would be more suitable for you. It provides a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. In terms of sound, the Medium Tactile switch is described as having a unique sound, while the Peach switch is low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Medium Tactile switch is characterized as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. The Peach switch, on the other hand, is classified as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactility, force, and sound profile. Consider your typing style and desired experience before making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
