Durock Medium Tactile vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. Two switches that stand out are the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch, and the KTT Pine, a linear switch. The Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, giving users a satisfying feedback with every keypress. Additionally, its jelly-like sound signature adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches are medium-heavy, providing a buttery smooth typing experience that feels effortless. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction, allowing for smooth key travel. Both switches offer their own set of advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
58g
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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Pine share a common feature in their polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic results from both switches when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Medium Tactile features a nylon material, while the Pine utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing in the Medium Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, users who prioritize a more immersive and resonant typing experience may prefer the Medium Tactile over the Pine.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the characteristics of the bottom and top housing materials play a significant role. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can expect different tactile feedback and sound profiles between the Medium Tactile and the Pine due to their distinct bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is currently unavailable, while the actuation force of the Pine switch is 45 grams. This means that the Pine switch requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke compared to the Durock Medium Tactile switch, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
In terms of bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Pine switch has a lower bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight option. Therefore, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch may be a better choice.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prioritize a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Pine switch, as it requires less force to actuate. This can be beneficial for work keyboards or lengthy gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a more robust typing feel may opt for the Durock Medium Tactile switch, as its higher bottom out force provides a satisfying push when pressing all the way down.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile switch and KTT Pine switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. While the Pine switch is lighter in both aspects, offering a softer touch and lighter keystrokes, the Durock Medium Tactile switch provides a heavier typing experience with a more substantial push needed to actuate and bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down. It is the distance that can be felt when a key is pressed. In the case of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. Similarly, the KTT Pine linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance, resulting in similar results when it comes to the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, which provides a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is accentuated, meaning it provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It falls into the category of medium tactile switches, which offer a prominent yet balanced tactile experience. Additionally, it is described as stepped, implying that it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch is also mild, offering a gentle typing experience that many find approachable. With a polished finish, the Durock Medium Tactile switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing sensation.
The KTT Pine linear switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke with a seamless and effortless sensation. Similar to the Durock Medium Tactile, the KTT Pine switch provides a silky feeling as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. This smoothness can be attributed to factors such as factory lubing or specific materials used in the switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Durock Medium Tactile has a jelly-like sound signature and provides a medium amount of tactility, characterized by a stepped, mild, and polished feel. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a buttery and creamy typing experience. Both switches bring their own unique characteristics to the table, allowing users to tailor their keyboard setup according to their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch would suit your needs. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it provides a medium typing force. In terms of sound, the Medium Tactile has a unique sound signature, while the Pine offers a deep and bassy sound. When it comes to feel, the Medium Tactile has accented tactility and a polished finish, while the Pine is described as buttery and creamy. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
