KTT Miaowu vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to choose from are the KTT Miaowu, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch. The Miaowu switch is praised for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with conventional POM stems. Known for being 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is beloved for its comfortable typing feel, featuring a medium bump when pressed and a soothing sound similar to rain falling on a window. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished', the T1 provides a satisfying tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the KTT Miaowu and the Durock T1 feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, the Miaowu and T1 differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Miaowu featuring a nylon bottom housing and the T1 utilizing polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In contrast, the T1's polycarbonate bottom housing may offer a different typing experience with a potentially crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in a switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. While both the Miaowu and T1 offer polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials with the Miaowu using nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, and the T1 utilizing polycarbonate which may result in a potentially crisper sound. Users can experiment with different housing materials to find the perfect combination that suits their typing preferences and desired sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the Miaowu has a lighter touch compared to the T1. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force of 50 grams is also relatively light. In contrast, the T1 has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The actuation force of the T1 is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in this aspect. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Miaowu, while those looking for a heavier and more tactile typing experience may opt for the T1. Both switches have their own unique strengths, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu provides a quicker response time which is favored by gamers, while the T1 offers a deeper press which some may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to the trend of compact and responsive keyboards. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu linear switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a tactile element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of the T1 is suitable for various environments, making it versatile for different typing preferences and scenarios.
In terms of feel, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a bouncy sensation, with keys that feel spring-like and provide a lively feedback when pressed. This bouncy feel can enhance typing speed and accuracy, giving users a dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. The stepped nature of the switch provides two distinct stages during the keystroke, offering a more controlled and precise typing experience. The accented tactility adds a medium level of feedback without being overwhelming, and the polished finish ensures smooth key travel for comfortable typing sessions.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel for a tactile typing experience, the T1 switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preference and typing needs. However, it's worth noting that both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke action, the Miaowu may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a comfortable tactile bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the T1 could be the switch for you. Additionally, if you like a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Miaowu may be more suitable, while the T1 offers a low-pitched sound and an accented, polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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