TTC Gold Brown vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Kang White. Both switches offer unique benefits and are suited for different preferences. The Gold Brown is best known for its balanced feel, featuring a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. Its rounded sound profile provides a softer typing experience without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Kang White is praised for its poppy linear design, creating a dazzling typing sound. What sets it apart is the use of self-lubricating material, resulting in an unmatched smoothness while typing. If you're looking for a switch that offers a satisfying tactile bump, the Gold Brown might be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a lively sound, the Kang White should be on your radar. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and KTT Kang White share similar housing materials, with both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing, creating visually appealing effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using either the Gold Brown or Kang White switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Gold Brown and Kang White differ, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its relatively softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Whether it's the Gold Brown or Kang White, users can enjoy a more immersive typing experience with the nylon bottom housing, as it enhances the overall sound profile of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound production, they both contribute to the overall typing experience. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch are divided between the top and bottom. When pressing down on either the Gold Brown or Kang White, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and the tactile feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, as it affects the sound profile produced when the switch returns to its initial position. Therefore, the user experience may vary slightly depending on whether you prioritize the feel of bottoming out or the sound upon releasing a key.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown and KTT Kang White switches have more similarities than differences in terms of housing materials. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, making them ideal for those who appreciate clarity in sound and plan to use RGB lighting. Regarding the bottom housings, nylon is employed in both switches, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or Kang White, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it becomes clear that both switches fall within the medium range in terms of force. The Gold Brown tactile switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Kang White linear switch requires 45 grams to activate and 58 grams to bottom out. This means that the Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Kang White. While the difference may not be too significant, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kang White, as its actuation and bottom out forces are both lighter. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Gold Brown, as it requires a slightly heavier force for both actuation and bottom out. Overall, both switches offer a medium force experience, but slight variations in their actuation and bottom out forces allow users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the feeling and feedback of these switches. While it is worth noting that both switches have the same travel distance, it is not possible to determine which one is shorter or longer as they are equal in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 switch has a neutral sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, but not completely silent. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild typing experience with a satisfying bump. It is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch also has an accented tactile feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown switch is known for its balanced qualities in terms of sound and feel. It has a neutral sound profile that is softer than most switches and offers a mild, buttery, and accented tactile feel. The KTT Kang White switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile, but no information is available regarding its feel. While the Gold Brown switch provides a rounded sound profile and weightiness, the Kang White switch stands out with its self-lubricating material, resulting in an unparalleled smoothness during typing. Overall, these switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended usage. If you are looking for a well-balanced switch with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown is the best option for you. Its rounded sound profile adds to the overall satisfaction while typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White is the switch to go for. Its self-lubricating material provides an exquisite typing experience.
When it comes to sound, the Gold Brown is described as neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. The Kang White, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, further contributing to their versatility.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience. Its mild characteristics ensure a gentle typing experience, while the buttery and polished qualities provide smooth and refined key travel. The accented tactility adds a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the Kang White, suggesting that it may not have distinct feel characteristics.
Overall, the decision between the TTC Gold Brown and KTT Kang White switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. Consider your desired typing experience and whether you prioritize balance and satisfaction (Gold Brown) or a dazzling sound and exceptional smoothness (Kang White). Evaluate your needs and preferences, and make a decision that aligns with your individual requirements. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make.
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