TTC Gold Brown vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Pine. The Gold Browns are best known for their balanced nature, offering a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. They have a soft, rounded sound profile without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Pine switches are a translucent, forest green linear option that provides a medium-heavy feel and a buttery smooth typing experience. These switches are built to offer effortless key travel, thanks to a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction. While these general descriptions may give you an idea of what to expect from each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Pine share a common feature in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a beautiful illumination effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the top housings of the Gold Brown and the Pine.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Gold Brown utilizes nylon while the Pine sticks to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the stiff nature of polycarbonate in the Pine's bottom housing will contribute to a more clear and resonant sound. The choice between these materials will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, while the top housings of the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Pine offer similar advantages through their use of polycarbonate, the choice of materials for the bottom housings differs. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown provides a deep and full sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine offers a sharper and more resonant sound. These differences will influence the overall sound experience and feel when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Gold Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams, both falling into the medium force range. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force while the Pine requires 58 grams. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Gold Brown offers a slightly heavier feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Pine would be the better choice. However, if a more substantial push and a bit more resistance are desired, the Gold Brown would be the suitable option. In terms of weight, both switches provide similar results, as they are in the medium force range. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom position when pressed. In the case of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a uniform travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Gold Brown and Pine switches offer similar results.
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 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 TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a balanced sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, but not completely silent. It offers a rounded sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This switch produces a lower frequency range sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, offering a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, thanks to its polished and factory-lubed finish, which minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch is accented, meaning it provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Similarly, the KTT Pine linear switch also offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. This switch is designed to provide a smooth and fluid keystroke, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as each keystroke effortlessly melts into the switch. The creaminess and smoothness of this switch can be attributed to either factory-lubing or specific materials used during manufacturing.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer impressive subjective qualities. The Gold Brown switch provides a balanced sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, paired with a mild and approachable typing experience. Its buttery and accented feel ensures smooth and seamless key presses. On the other hand, the Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience. Its buttery and creamy feel allows for effortless and silky typing. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, delivering a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a satisfying bump and moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is a great choice. These switches offer a rounded and softer sound profile without being completely silent. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience and a deeper, bass-heavy sound profile, the KTT Pine linear switch is the way to go. These switches are medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for effortless typing. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, they minimize friction for smooth key travel. Overall, the Gold Brown provides a mild, accented, and polished typing feel, while the Pine offers a buttery and creamy sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the balance and rounded sound of the Gold Brown or the smoothness and bass-heavy sound of the Pine.
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