Jwick Ginger Milk vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Pine. The Ginger Milk switches are best known for their soft and pastel aesthetics, which truly reflect the typing experience they offer. These linear switches provide a silky smooth and approachable push feel, accompanied by a muted yet snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switches boast a stunning translucent forest green appearance. These linear switches are medium-heavy and famous for their buttery smoothness, ensuring an effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Pine switches come with a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for even smoother key travel. While both switches share the descriptor of "buttery," the Ginger Milk falls into the category of being neutral, whereas the Pine offers a bassy, creamy, low-pitched sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Pine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for more clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual effects when using either switch.
However, there is a notable difference between the two switches in terms of their bottom housings. The Ginger Milk utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for clearer resonance, enhancing the overall sound experience.
When actually using the switches, the impact of the housing materials will be felt differently. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, the qualities of the Ginger Milk's nylon bottom housing will be more apparent during this phase of typing. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will play a significant role in the sound emitted during key release.
In conclusion, while the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Pine share similar sound characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Ginger Milk with its nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Pine with its polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Users can expect to experience these differences during typing, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced more by the bottom housing, and the sound when releasing a key being affected by the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, some key differences can be observed. Starting with actuation force, the Ginger Milk requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Pine requires a slightly lighter 45 grams. This means that the Pine switch may provide a slightly more sensitive and responsive typing experience.
Moving on to bottom out force, the Ginger Milk requires a heavier 63.5 grams of force to fully press the switch down, compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This suggests that the Ginger Milk switch will provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, offering a stronger push feel.
Considering weight, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range. However, with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, the Ginger Milk can be considered the heavier option.
Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time may find the Pine switch more suitable, as its lighter actuation force may result in less finger fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ginger Milk switch. Despite the differences in forces, both switches can ultimately deliver similar results depending on the individual's preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is clear that the Ginger Milk has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Pine has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Pine being more towards the standard 4.0 mm and the Ginger Milk being on the shallower side at 3.7 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ginger Milk makes it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times, as the reduced distance allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Pine may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes responsiveness or depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is known for its muted and snappy sound profile. It provides a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound produced by both switches is subjective and can be further influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. However, if you are seeking a neutral sound, the Ginger Milk would be a suitable choice, while the Pine offers a more bassy and low-pitched sound.
In terms of feel, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Pine linear switches provide a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Ginger Milk switch is described as having a silky smooth and approachable push feel, further enhancing the typing experience. Similarly, the Pine switch is described as medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience thanks to its polished and factory-lubed finish. Both switches deliver a satisfying tactile feedback that ensures comfortable and enjoyable typing sessions.
Considering the available information, the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Pine linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of feel, providing a buttery and smooth typing experience. However, they differ in terms of sound. The Ginger Milk switch offers a more neutral sound, suitable for most purposes, while the Pine switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and approachable typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a slightly heavier keystroke feel. The Ginger Milk switch provides a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. It is a neutral switch, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used effectively at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a buttery and creamy typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch might be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a lighter keystroke feel compared to the Ginger Milk. The Pine switch has a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. With its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, it provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
Ultimately, your choice between the Jwick Ginger Milk and KTT Pine switches will depend on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the desired bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile to determine which switch aligns better with your needs. Happy typing!
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