TTC Bluish White vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are pleased to offer two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences: the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the KTT Mint, a linear switch. The Bluish White is best known for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile. With its 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched' characteristics, typing on the Bluish White feels both smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Mint switch provides a satisfyingly smooth and thocky typing experience, thanks to its long pole stem. It offers a light and fleeting type feel, with 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' attributes. Both switches have their unique features, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the KTT Mint both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to their top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Bluish White and the Mint differs as they both use nylon as the material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can anticipate a similar sound experience from both switches when it comes to their bottom housing.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housing materials differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. This distinction may lead to slight variations in the overall sound profile and typing experience between the Bluish White and the Mint, even though they share polycarbonate and nylon as their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Bluish White requires 42 grams of force while the Mint requires 45 grams. This makes the Bluish White slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bluish White requires 50 grams, while the Mint requires 53 grams. This means that the Mint is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bluish White would be a suitable choice as it offers a lighter actuation force. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for longer periods of time, such as for work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mint switch is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. However, it is important to note that the differences in force requirements between these switches are relatively small, so users can still expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that individuals are seeking.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch have different measurements. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mint has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional measurements, 4.0 mm is considered the standard, while 3.0 mm is on the shallower end. However, both of these switches fall within the range of what is commonly used. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are looking for a switch that offers a more responsive typing experience, the Bluish White may be a better choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In that case, the Mint with its slightly longer travel distance may be a more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and your typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The KTT Mint 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, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch are described as having a low-pitched tone. This means that they both feature a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Therefore, while the sound profiles of these switches are similar, the overall experience may vary depending on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Bluish White switch is described as having a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel. A buttery switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic means that it offers a gentle typing experience that most users would find approachable. The stepped feature gives it a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It also has a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a light and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch is also described as having a mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users and features a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch offer satisfying typing experiences with their own unique qualities. While the sound profiles of both switches are low-pitched, the Bluish White switch offers a snappy sound profile while the Mint switch has a poppy thockiness. In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, but the Bluish White switch also offers additional characteristics such as a buttery feel and a stepped tactile sensation. Overall, regardless of the specific details, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience based on their personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly poppy and tactile typing experience, the TTC Bluish White switches are a great choice. These switches have a light bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a relatively gentle typing feel. They are described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, meaning you can expect a smooth and uniform keystroke experience with reduced friction. The Bluish Whites also have a low-pitched sound profile, which is bass-heavy and mellow.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience, the KTT Mint switches are the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a medium-light typing feel. They are described as mild and polished, indicating a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Mint switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, similar to the Bluish Whites.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Whether you prefer a tactile poppy feel or a smooth linear feel, both the TTC Bluish White and KTT Mint switches offer their own unique characteristics. Consider the bottom out force, feel descriptors, and sound descriptions to make an informed decision. Happy typing!
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