TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mint 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 Mint offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, is perfect for those who appreciate subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint, a linear switch, provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a distinct poppy thockiness. While the Gold Brown Pro prioritizes a nuanced tactile feel and understated sound profile, the Mint offers a light and fleeting typing sensation. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
15mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Mint feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. These top housings are especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, they may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other housing materials used.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Mint opt for nylon material, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches share this common feature, the specific design and thickness of the nylon housing may still impact the sound and feel of the switches differently.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gold Brown Pro and the Mint results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split qualities of each housing material, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon key release, contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch. Despite using similar materials for their housings, subtle differences in design and construction may still produce varied results in sound and feel between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the KTT Mint linear switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the Gold Brown Pro has no bottom out force information available, while the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Mint switch requires slightly more force to fully press down the key compared to the Gold Brown Pro, which may impact the typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Overall, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the slightly heavier bottom out force of the KTT Mint for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we can see that the Gold Brown Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Mint has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Mint offers just a bit more depth when pressed. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Mint. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing a balance between quick responsiveness and tactile feedback.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Mint switches both offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments, whether at home or work. The Gold Brown Pro provides a thocky and rich sound, while the Mint switch offers a poppy thockiness, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. Overall, you can expect a subdued and subtle sound from the Gold Brown Pro and a light and fleeting sound from the Mint switch.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown Pro and Mint switches offer a polished and mild typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro provides a silky, subtle, and stepped feel, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a polished and mild typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typists can expect a light and smooth typing feel from both switches, allowing for comfortable and enjoyable typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Mint switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with a subdued sound profile, perfect for those who value understated tactility. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a smooth and satisfying linear experience with a poppy thockiness and light typing feel. Whether you prefer a gentle tactile feedback with minimal sound distraction or a smooth linear feel with a satisfying sound, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch or the KTT Mint linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactility and sound. If you prioritize a subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a poppy thocky sound profile, the KTT Mint would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on what type of typing feel and sound you prefer. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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