Durock Piano vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the KTT Rose 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 Piano and the KTT Rose, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Durock Piano switches are widely renowned for their proprietary material blend, offering users an exceptionally pleasant typing experience. With its gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature, typing on the Piano switches is an absolute delight. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky', these switches provide a unique tactile sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches boast an irresistible aesthetic appeal. However, there is more to these switches than meets the eye. The utilization of progressive springs in the Rose switches results in a substantial typing experience that is not too heavy. The sound produced is akin to bassy raindrops, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to your typing session. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Rose switches offer a distinct sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the KTT Rose offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Piano's proprietary POM blend top housing provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile, although the exact details of the blend are unknown. In contrast, the Rose features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to be utilized, making it aesthetically pleasing for those wanting to incorporate lighting effects.
Similarly, the housing materials for the bottom housing of these switches also differ. The Piano is equipped with a proprietary POM blend bottom housing, contributing to its uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Rose features a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, while the Piano and Rose switches have different housing materials for both top and bottom, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The POM blend top housing of the Piano contributes to a deep sound profile upon key release, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose creates a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the POM blend bottom housing of the Piano adds to its satisfying sound profile during typing, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Rose enhances its deeper and fuller sound. Despite the differences, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is important to note that both switches have an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to directly compare them in this aspect. However, they do share a common bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which places them in the medium-heavy range. This means that, in terms of the force required to fully depress the keys, both switches offer a similar level of resistance.
In terms of weight, the lighter option would be preferable for those who prioritize extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. This lighter weight allows for reduced finger fatigue and increased endurance. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, a switch with a heavier force would be more suitable.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Durock Piano and KTT Rose switches remains unknown, their shared bottom out force ensures a similar typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios, one can opt for a lighter switch to facilitate longer typing sessions or a heavier switch for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Piano linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This ensures a consistent and familiar tactile sensation for typing or gaming. The equal travel distance of these switches eliminates any potential differences in user experience regarding the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Thus, both the Durock Piano and the KTT Rose offer an equivalent typing or gaming experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
The KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and creamy sound signature, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch has a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile, with a mellow tone. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, although the Piano switch seems to have a smoother and more immersive 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 used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano switch is described as frictionless and silky. This means that typing on these switches offers an extremely smooth and effortless experience, with minimal resistance or friction while pressing the keys. This contributes to a fluid travel and enhanced typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
Taking into consideration all the available information, the Durock Piano linear switch stands out for its pleasant sound signature and frictionless, silky feel. It offers a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound, making it a popular choice among typists. However, if you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched and mellow sound profile, along with a mild and polished typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch would be a suitable option. Both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, and ultimately, the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Piano linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a switch that offers a gliding push feel, deep and creamy sound signature, and a frictionless, silky typing experience, then the Durock Piano switch would be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that is uniquely substantial, yet not heavy, with a bassy raindrop sound profile, and a mild, polished feel, then the KTT Rose switch would be more suitable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, so you can expect a similar level of actuation force. Overall, consider your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making a decision between the Durock Piano and KTT Rose switches.
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