TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Miaowu offer unique experiences catering to different preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch designed for those who appreciate subtle feedback, offering a gentle tactile bump that allows for an immersive typing experience without distraction. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu is a linear switch known for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to its use of POK in the stem. While the Gold Brown Pro is lauded for its subdued sound profile and understated tactile experience, the Miaowu shines with its bouncy and clacky feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Miaowu switches are quite similar in terms of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is also favored for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches indicate that users can expect a comparable sound and performance in this aspect.
However, where the Gold Brown Pro and Miaowu switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to other plastics, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing sound and feel between these two switches.
Ultimately, the division of housing materials in the switches affects the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material contributes more to the sound when releasing a key. Despite sharing similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, the Gold Brown Pro and Miaowu switches may offer slightly different nuances in typing sound and feel due to the unique properties of their respective housing materials. Overall, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with a focus on clear and resonant sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Miaowu is lighter in terms of bottom out force with 50 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's unknown bottom out force. However, when it comes to actuation force, the Gold Brown Pro requires 45 grams while the Miaowu only needs 43 grams. Both switches have a similar actuation force, ensuring a comparable typing experience in that aspect. The weight of a switch is crucial, as some prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others prefer a heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Miaowu will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Miaowu switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more tactile feel may opt for the Gold Brown Pro switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound with a bass-heavy tone that is not too overpowering. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch offers a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. Depending on personal preference, typists can choose between the subtle and subdued sound of the Gold Brown Pro or the more distinct and lively sound of the Miaowu switch.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is often described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a refined, smooth, and gentle typing experience with a subtle tactile bump. Conversely, the KTT Miaowu switch is characterized by its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and lively feedback when pressed. Whether you prefer a more subtle and polished typing experience with the Gold Brown Pro or a bouncy and elastic feel with the Miaowu switch, both switches offer unique tactile sensations to enhance your typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Miaowu switches offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle and understated tactile experience with a thocky sound and polished feel, the Miaowu switch delivers a more distinct and lively typing experience with a clacky sound and bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences, typists can choose between these two switches to cater to their specific typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer exceptional quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying and immersive typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle tactile feedback with a quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and stable keystroke action with a snappy, clacky sound, the Miaowu switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a gentle and understated typing experience or a lively and responsive one. Keep in mind your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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