TTC Flaming Pink vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the popular TTC Flaming Pink and the KTT Laurel, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance typing and gaming experiences. The TTC Flaming Pink is celebrated for its smooth actuation and satisfying bottom-out sound, providing a premium feel ideal for both gaming and everyday tasks. Its appealing sound profile strikes a perfect balance, offering brightness without being overly loud. In contrast, the KTT Laurel features a medium-light actuation force and is renowned for its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, which contribute to its responsive yet comfortable typing experience. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile and snappy characteristics, the Laurel caters to those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback while typing. Both switches have their unique appeal, making them excellent choices depending on your preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and the KTT Laurel differ significantly in their choice of materials for the top housing, with the Flaming Pink utilizing polycarbonate and the Laurel opting for POM. The polycarbonate top housing of the Flaming Pink is notable for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of sound when the keys are pressed. This characteristic contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it particularly effective when used in conjunction with RGB lighting due to its transparency. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Laurel produces a deeper, more muted sound profile. This aesthetic and auditory difference fundamentally alters the experience for users; Flaming Pink offers brightness and clarity, while Laurel presents a more subdued and pleasing tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the TTC Flaming Pink and KTT Laurel employ materials known for producing a rich sound profile. The Flaming Pink uses nylon, which is a classic choice for switch housing. This softer plastic absorbs sound better, yielding a deeper and fuller result, contributing to a duller voice compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Laurel's POM bottom housing provides a unique and pleasing sound signature that also leans towards a muted quality. Interestingly, while the materials differ, both the nylon and POM contribute to a deeper sound, suggesting that despite their variation, users can expect a satisfying auditory experience from either switch.
In summary, while the TTC Flaming Pink and KTT Laurel diverge in their top housing materials, with polycarbonate and POM providing distinct sound characteristics, they converge in the performance aspect of their bottom housings. Each switch will deliver different acoustic sensations when pressed down, dictated by their bottom housing materials, which impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, if a user is seeking a crisper sound profile, the Flaming Pink would likely be preferable, but those looking for a more muted and deep sound might lean towards the Laurel. Ultimately, both switches cater to varied preferences, showcasing how the combination of different materials can alter the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, both switches exhibit identical actuation and bottom out forces, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users will experience the same light push feel when typing or gaming, making both switches well-suited for prolonged use. The uniformity in their specifications ensures that users seeking a lighter touch will be able to achieve similar typing experiences with either option. Given these characteristics, individuals who prefer a softer key feel for extended typing sessions will find both switches appealing, while those who favor a more substantial push feel might want to look for alternatives with higher force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink and the KTT Laurel linear switches, we see a slight difference that could influence user preference. The Flaming Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Laurel measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. With the repercussion that a shorter switch can facilitate quicker response times, gamers might lean toward the KTT Laurel for its marginally reduced travel distance. Conversely, the Flaming Pink offers a deeper feel due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a faster response, the Laurel is the better option due to its shorter travel, whereas those seeking a fuller depth during key presses might gravitate towards the Flaming Pink.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 TTC Flaming Pink switch provides a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, delivering a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances the typing experience. This quality makes it suitable for both gaming and everyday use, ensuring that while the sound is present, it doesn’t overwhelm the auditory environment. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be bass-heavy and mellow compared to the higher-pitched tones found in some other switches. This low pitch contributes to a more subdued auditory presence, making it a potentially more relaxed choice for long typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive action, providing a premium typing experience that many users appreciate. This smoothness ensures that key presses feel fluid and effortless. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch is characterized by its snappy feel, which stems from its medium-light weight and long pole design. These features make the Laurel particularly responsive, offering a typing experience that feels lively and engaging, which may be preferred by those who enjoy rapid and dynamic typing or gaming.
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Pink and KTT Laurel switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Pink excels in delivering a balanced sound and a smooth, responsive feel, ideal for various use cases, while the Laurel’s low-pitched sound and snappy action provide a different sensory experience that many users may find appealing. Ultimately, while each switch has its distinctive traits, both are designed to elevate the typing experience, allowing users to find satisfaction in different ways based on their tastes and needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink and the KTT Laurel linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smooth and responsive feel along with a satisfying sound profile, the Flaming Pink is an excellent choice. Its bright sound isn’t overly loud, making it suitable for both casual typing and intense gaming sessions without being disruptive. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more balanced typing experience with a lower-pitched, mellower sound, the KTT Laurel might be more appealing to you. Its medium-light force and snappy responsiveness cater nicely to those who want a switch that feels lively and enjoyable for long typing sessions. If you prioritize a satisfying auditory experience, opt for the Flaming Pink; if you value comfort and a subtle sound, the KTT Laurel could be your ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer a light bottom-out force, making them accessible for users who prefer less resistance, so consider what compliments your typing style and environment best when making your decision.
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