TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, and the KTT Kang White, a linear switch. The Gold Brown Pro is known for its subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump that allows typists to stay focused without distractions. It also boasts a quiet sound profile, making each keystroke a whisper rather than a shout. On the other hand, the Kang White offers a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. While the Gold Brown Pro is described as polished, thocky, and subtle, the Kang White is categorized as low-pitched and neutral. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Kang White, it is evident that both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. This material choice produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting setups. However, the key difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Kang White also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics as the Gold Brown Pro.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the Gold Brown Pro and Kang White switches differentiate themselves with their nylon bottom housing. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing may create a slightly different typing experience compared to the Kang White. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound. This subtle contrast in sound quality may appeal to different preferences in typing experience. However, the use of the same polycarbonate top housing ensures that both switches maintain a sharp and clear sound profile when used with RGB lighting.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gold Brown Pro and Kang White switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. The utilization of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a consistent sharp and clear sound profile for both switches, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. While their nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound, the slight differences in material characteristics may influence the overall typing experience. Ultimately, individuals looking for a switch with a distinctive sound profile may appreciate the nuances between the Gold Brown Pro and the Kang White, despite their shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown, while the Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This makes the Kang White switch heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the Gold Brown Pro. The actuation force being the same means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of triggering a keystroke. Weight is a significant factor to consider when choosing between the two switches, as a lighter actuation force may lead to more extended typing periods, ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Kang White linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Kang White being more on the standard side. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its slightly quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Kang White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance feels comfortable and responsive.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more subdued and subtle approach compared to the KTT Kang White's potentially more lively and poppy sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, making it a versatile choice for those who prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle tactile feedback. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the specific feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch. However, given its self-lubricating material, it can be assumed that the switch provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience, potentially different from the more tactile feel of the Gold Brown Pro.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the Gold Brown Pro focuses on providing a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, the Kang White may offer a more poppy typing sound and a smooth typing experience due to its self-lubricating material. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the two switches to find the one that best suits their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a subtle and quiet typing experience with a gentle tactile bump, then the Gold Brown Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and dazzling typing sound with a medium bottom out force, the Kang White linear switch would be more fitting. Consider your typing style and environment to choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to prioritize what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.