Durock Medium Tactile vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium 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 to consider are the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Strawberry. The Durock Medium Tactile is well-regarded for its unique and balanced tactility, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, its jelly-like sound signature adds another layer of enjoyment. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Its attractive pink and clear housings also add a visually appealing touch to any keyboard setup. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, it is important to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to make the best decision for your individual needs. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Medium Tactile and the KTT Strawberry both feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through. With similar descriptions of their polycarbonate top housing, it can be expected that both the Medium Tactile and the Strawberry will provide similar sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting.
However, the housing materials of the two switches differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which again emphasizes the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate. Therefore, while the top housing may provide similar sound profiles, the bottom housing of the Medium Tactile and the Strawberry will yield different sound characteristics.
When it comes to the physical feel of pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing has a significant impact. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, will be felt in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing will likely result in a slightly softer and more cushioned bottom-out experience compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. However, the top housing, which is made of polycarbonate in both switches, will influence the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the sound profile of the key when it is let go will be similar between the Medium Tactile and the Strawberry due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are clear differences to consider. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to evaluate in comparison to the Strawberry with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Durock Medium Tactile requiring 65 grams and the Strawberry requiring 62 grams.
Considering weight, the Strawberry switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it desirable for those seeking a smoother and lighter typing experience. This is particularly advantageous for those who type for longer periods, such as at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch, though lacking an exact measurement for actuation force, offers a potentially stronger push feel. This can provide a more substantial typing experience, suitable for users who prefer a bit more resistance.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is unknown, its bottom out force is heavier than that of the Strawberry switch. The Strawberry switch, on the other hand, has a lighter actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force. Depending on personal preferences for typing experience, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch, both options are available.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4mm. When pressing down on a key, users will experience the same distance of travel for both switches. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feel and key press experience when using either the Durock Medium Tactile or the KTT Strawberry switch.
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 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 Medium Tactile switch is best known for its jelly-like sound signature. However, there is no specific information provided on the sound of the KTT Strawberry switch. Based on the information given, it is unclear how the KTT Strawberry switch sounds, but 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 used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having a pronounced yet balanced tactility. It is also referred to as an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch is also categorized as stepped, implying that it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, it is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Medium Tactile switch is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as smooth, offering comfortable actuation and a frictionless typing experience. It is also referred to as silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Strawberry switch is further described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Similar to the Durock Medium Tactile, the Strawberry switch is also categorized as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, a jelly-like sound signature, and a polished feel. While the KTT Strawberry switch may not have specific information provided on its sound, it is praised for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Both switches offer a sleek and polished typing experience, with the Durock Medium Tactile leaning towards a more accented and mild tactility, while the KTT Strawberry focuses on a smooth and frictionless feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps when choosing between these switches for a tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. This switch offers a jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a smooth actuation, the KTT Strawberry would be the ideal option for you. These switches are loved for their comfortable feel and reliable performance, and their attractive pink and clear housings add an extra touch of appeal. In terms of sound, the Medium Tactile offers a sound signature that is yet to be described, while the Strawberry provides a low-pitched tone, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. When it comes to feel, the Medium Tactile offers an accented, stepped, mild, and polished typing experience, providing a prominent yet approachable tactility. On the other hand, the Strawberry offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Strawberry depends on your preferences for tactility and sound, with the Medium Tactile offering a balanced yet pronounced tactile experience and the Strawberry providing a smooth and frictionless typing feel.
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